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Local Golf Instructors Earn National Recognition

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Golf instructors coaching players on the course

News Summary

Jim Suttie and Mark Durland, two prominent golf instructors from our region, have been recognized by Golf Magazine for their exceptional coaching skills. Suttie has been named to the World Golf Teachers Hall of Fame, while Durland made the Top 100 Teachers list for the third consecutive year. Their achievements highlight the caliber of golf instruction available in the area, as the community rallies around upcoming charity tournaments and educational opportunities for aspiring golfers.

Two Local Golf Instructors Shine Bright on National Stage

In a delightful turn of events for golf aficionados in our region, two renowned instructors have recently received prestigious recognition by Golf Magazine. Jim Suttie and Mark Durland have both solidified their spots among the elite ranks of golfing coaches, and the local community couldn’t be prouder!

The Legacy of Jim Suttie

**Jim Suttie**, who presides over a teaching academy at TwinEagles, has long been revered for his exceptional coaching abilities. His twice-monthly tips column for the Daily News has been a go-to for golfers looking to refine their skills and elevate their game. To add to his accolades, Suttie not only made it into the 2019 class of the *World Golf Teachers Hall of Fame*, but he has also been a former National PGA Teacher of the Year and has frequently graced the pages of Golf Digest’s Top 50 Teachers list. Talk about impressive!

Besides his remarkable coaching career, he previously served as a golf coach at both Florida Gulf Coast University and Northwestern University. Suttie’s recent induction into the Hall of Fame reflects the respect and admiration he has garnered throughout his extensive journey in the world of golf. His sentiment about this accomplishment is one of humility, as he never anticipated such recognition.

Mark Durland’s Consistent Excellence

Alongside Suttie, **Mark Durland** has also made waves in the golfing community, as he was named to the esteemed *Top 100 Teachers* list for the third time in a row! Durland operates his own academy at Naples Grande and was previously recognized as one of Golf Digest’s *Best Teachers in Florida* in 2015, with multiple nods for *Best Young Teachers in America* since then. His talent for nurturing young golfers while refining seasoned players’ techniques has established him as a significant figure in local golf education.

Golfing Highlights and Upcoming Events

Exciting moments on the greens have not been limited to coaching accolades! Our local golf courses have witnessed some thrilling action, including two remarkable holes-in-one on the same hole at the Golf Club of the Everglades. On March 8, both Mickey Moore and Eric Fredbeck wowed onlookers by acing hole No. 8. What a day for those lucky enough to be watching!

Looking ahead, a vibrant array of charity golf tournaments is set to kick off in the coming weeks. One such event is the *Fairways for the Future* golf tournament taking place on April 22 at Lely Resort’s Flaming Island Course. Registration will begin bright and early at 7:30 a.m., so interested players should mark their calendars! Participants are reminded that the entrance fee will increase from **$250 to $300** after March 27, so be sure to act quickly.

Additionally, the *Marine Corps League tournament* is on the horizon for April 6 at Glen Eagle Golf and Country Club, with proceeds going to support local MCL activities. Just two days later, the *St. Vincent de Paul Golf Tournament* is scheduled for April 8 at Quail Creek Country Club, benefiting the essential “Meals on Wheels” program.

Don’t miss the *Youth Haven Charity Tournament*, also on April 22 at Lely Resort, along with the *Vasari Cares Foundation Golf Championships*, happening April 15 to support Golisano Children’s Hospital and Habitat for Humanity.

Educational Opportunities for All

In addition to these splendid tournaments and charitable events, several golf academies in the region offer coaching sessions for both juniors and adults alike. Players from all backgrounds are encouraged to sharpen their skills, learn new techniques, and even participate in specialized coaching from recognized instructors.

Suttie’s Academy at TwinEagles is open to both members and the public, providing access to cutting-edge training facilities. It’s an excellent opportunity for anyone wishing to take their golfing abilities to the next level!

The golf community in Southwest Florida is alive with excitement, contributions, and opportunities for everyone to join in. With celebrated instructors, thrilling tournaments, and a commitment to education, there has never been a better time to embrace this fantastic sport!

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