Resident PGA Professional Stuart Hemmings has competed in golf at amateur and professional level since 1991. Within such a competitive sport his profession took him to a number of worldwide destinations that included The United States, Canada, Australia and Asia; he wisely used these opportunities to diversify and develop his interests and career progression within the golfing industry.
His PGA training commenced in 2001 whilst serving as a “Trainee Professional” at Preston Golf Club in Lancashire, England. It was here where he developed a junior golf school and became fully qualified in 2005. Stuart became widely recognised for his coaching qualities and his innovative ways to teach and develop their academy. During this period Stuart worked under the watchful eye of Andrew Greenbank, coach to the Lancashire girls county squad; providing professional support and learning experiences.
During 2006 Stuart moved to North America to continue his progress as a professional on and off the golf course. Based at Shaughnessy Golf and Country Club, host to the PGA Canadian Open he began to work extensively with tour players and coaches. Jennifer Wyatt, a member of the LPGA, became a friend and mentor to Stuart whilst Brett Saunders, a coach to several USPGA, European and Asian tour players, provided valuable education on how to succeed as a coach to some of the world's finest players. Stanford University, known for producing two of golf's greats Tiger Woods and Tom Watson, welcomed Stuart providing him the opportunity to gain an insight into the make up of their success; during which time, Stuart gained an in depth insight into the world of college golf, acquiring scholarships and the expectations of each and every student. His attentions turned to the Australasian Tour and he began to focus on his future ambitions to coaching professionals and aspiring professionals.
Australian teacher of the year, Mark Gibson, provided Stuart with the opportunity to visit his academy at the Royal Pines Resort in Queensland, home to the ANZ ladies masters. The state of the art facilities and experience gained from one of Australians finest was very inspirational to Stuart's blossoming career as a full time coach. An aspiring Chinese professional and student of Stuart's, Lilian Lee, provided an insight into the boom in Asia.
Stuart has been directing the schools golf academy since its opening. His enthusiasm and professionalism to all aspects of his work has helped us establish a young and prosperous golfing community. Through his holistic approach our student's have the opportunity to achieve long term benefit from their tuition and extensive experience whilst schooling at St Bees. We see Stuart as a valuable asset to our student's enjoyment, golfing development and school life.