by Glen Erickson
I successfully completed the USGTF certfication course, and based on the experience, I believe the organization's program is tragically under rated by the likes of Mark Nessmith.
As a player of the game for over 35 years, I developed my expertise as a teaching professional through interaction with many people...some connected to the business of golf and some who simply played golf at a high level. I have been a scratch player for the past decade. The USGTF Certification Course provided exactly what I needed. It enhanced my ability to communicate more effectively.
In my opinion, the stigma associated with the USGTF is created by the filth who attend a certification course and then prance around afterward calling themselves "golf professionals". This is an insult to committed teaching professional. I am comfortable these types can be labeled "losers", but keep your bloody paint brush away from me! Yes, these cranks make it very easy for PGA members to be skeptical.
On the other hand, how many PGA members lose their head pro jobs and then wind up at a driving range where they "fall back" on teaching to generate an income? These beauties are the real joke because it is apparent many of them have no interest in teaching on a full-time basis. I consider this an insult to my personal committment.
I have worked in the golf industry as a teacher, a salesman and a freelance writer since 1994 and have dealt with the uninformed on many ocassions. In my market, NOBODY questions my commitment because I have done the work to establish credibility well beyond receipt of my Level 3 certification from the USGTF.
So Mr. Nessmith, if you'd like to drag your ass up here sometime, we can have a look at what I'm sure must be your quality golf swing. Unless of course your too busy going down on your PGA bretheren in the hope these shoe clerks will spiff you a few free rounds of golf.
Glen Erickson
Teaching Professional
Edmonton, Alberta, Canada

by Mike Porrazzo
I couldn't agree more ...
My casual, non-scientific observation of most PGA pros at the courses and on the driving ranges I frequent is that they are self-absorbed, superiority attitude carrying, "gee, this is so easy for me, why can't you do it" types. That said, there are a few guys who are really good at it. For lack of a better description, they "get it" -- they know how to communicate, really teach, and have been humbled by the game. They are genuinely interested in helping not only with the swing, but with the mental approach to the game that reminds us that it's supposed to be fun. One such teacher is Justin Boatman here in South Orange County. If any of you are looking for a good instructor, he's it. Yes, it's a plug, but it's true -- he's great at his profession -- teaching. The problem is, there aren't too many like him...

by Paul Allas
Golf instructions on the whole are good for the game if taken, practiced and applied. Inept golfers who enjoys labeling also labeled themselves as being know more about golf than those who are trying to teach the fundamentals of a golf swing. Critics such as you boss (double SOB spelled backwards) enjoy making a---- of themself trying to hit a golf ball down the fairway or onto a green provide great entertainment.

by Ellis Bowman
As a member of the USGTF, I take exception to your use of the term "losers," as applied to the members of the USGTF. The USGTF is a quality association that has sought to rectify the very problems that you and Mr Baldwin have complained about. The USGTF requires classroom attendance and a demonstration of playing ability before certification. All of us take lessons in one form or another throughout our golfing life, whether it's Uncle Fred showing us how to hold the club, or just watching other golfers and trying to emulate a correct swing. Doesn't it make sense to learn from someone who has proven their ability to play and score?