The Golf Academy at Orange County National

Originally from Hartlepool, England, Tony has over 20 years of teaching experience, working with players of all calibers, including PGA Tour winners, Champions Tour players, state champions and NCAA Division 1 nationally ranked players. Under the mentorship of Jim Hardy (current top 10 Golf Digest Instructor), the late Jim Flick (instructor to Jack Nicklaus) and Chris O’Connell (current instructor to Matt Kuchar and Golf Magazine top 100 member), Tony is a certified Master Golf Instructor and current World Golf Teacher’s Federation Top 100 instructor. With an accomplished junior golf career, Tony has competed against players such as Justin Rose, Sergio Garcia and Francesco Molinari. His extensive competitive play has armed him with a web of knowledge that he is passionate to share with his students as they strive to improve their golf games. Tony has taught out on the PGA Tour for the last five years at venues such as Augusta National, Pebble Beach, Bethpage Black and Shinnecock Hills but to name a few. “The golf swing is like a signature, no two are alike. Every student that I work with is unique, and I relish in the task of taking what they have and putting in the missing links.”

Flightscope Certified, Mitchell Golf Master-Clubfitter, USGTF Master Instructor Certified

Earl Hawkins is a seasoned golf instructor based in the Orlando area, with over 20 years of experience. He is certified by legends like Phil Ritson, David Leadbetter, and Gary Gilchrist. Known for fostering young talent, he played a crucial role in establishing the Orlando US Kids Tour. Earl’s teaching has led many students to secure scholarships at prestigious colleges such as Wake Forest University and George Mason.

He has mentored notable players like Tatsuaki Nakamura, a renowned Japanese golfer known for his powerful drives and magic with the short game, making significant contributions on both the US PGA Tour and the Japanese Tour. Additionally, Earl has worked closely with Eduardo Herrera, a Colombian golfer famous for his skills in both areas on the US PGA Tour. Earl travels all over to support and coach his students, underlining his commitment to their careers and success.

A former radio show contributor and once sponsored by Wilson Staff, Earl’s passion continues to shape aspiring golfers around the globe.

Originally from Port Washington, WI Kathy has over 25 years of teaching experience at all
levels from juniors to adults and enjoys a very interesting story as to how she found her
passion for golf. While enjoying time in Hawaii she broke 80 for the first time in 1977. Decided
to see the Women’s NCAA women’s Collegiate Nationals while there to see if she could play
college golf, she decides to walk on at University of Arizona at age 26 in1978. Then qualifies
for her first US Women’s Open in 1979 in Fairfield CT. Qualifies for her 2nd US Women’s Open
in 1980 in Nashville TN, Qualifies for her 3rd US Women’s Open in 1982 in Sacramento ,CA.
Qualifies for her 4th US Women’s Open in 1986 in Dayton OH NCR CC.
Throughout the years she studied under the Rick Smith Golf Academy, PGA Tour Academy at
Tiburon Ritz Carlton Naples, Florida. Kathy then found her way out west to be with family. Golf
came calling again and her teaching skills came in demand again with Arizona Junior Golf
programs organized by Scottsdale Junior Guru. Dale Balvin. Also studied under Reid/West
Golf Academies
Kathy now finds her way back to Florida to be near her two sons Chase and Ross Padgett
with new Grandson Miles Carson Padgett.
Kathy’s specialty is Juniors. Kathy is a certified First Tee Coach. While in Naples, FL She was
instrumental in organizing Elementary, Middle School Golf Programming and 9 years as a High
School Naples Girls Golf Coach. Her students have made it to Division 1, Division 2, Drive chip
and putt to the finals at the Masters. Kathy is A Certified LPGA Class A Instructor
She is qualified to teach all levels beginners to advanced and has earned the label “swing
specialist” for diagnosing the swing but explaining the correction easily. She loves using “drills”, in other words, she gives “homework”!

From Seaforth, Ontario, Canada, John began playing golf with a modified Ben Hogan 2 iron under his father’s guidance in a field near their home. Inspired by Mike Weir’s 2003 Masters victory, John had a successful junior career achieving multiple wins and earning a golf scholarship. He competed in professional tournaments on the mini circuit, solidifying his reputation as a skilled golfer. John committed to a rigorous training routine centered on excellence. He worked with renowned coaches and trainers, participated in numerous workshops, and applied advanced technologies to enhance his performance. His analytical approach, combined with his natural talent, made him an imposing competitor and desired instructor.

John is a Class B member of the PGA of America and certified in the Titleist Performance Institute (TPI). John participates in community events and charity golf tournaments, earning respect and recognition. With twenty-five years in golf, John recognized that each person’s swing is unique. John comments, “The best feeling as an instructor is seeing the ‘ah-ha’ moment a student gets when a tip or drill clicks for them.” John fosters sportsmanship and integrity, understanding that golf is both physical and mental. He encourages his students to embrace discipline, patience, and resilience both on and off the course. The holistic approach has helped many golfers find success and satisfaction.