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![]() Nick Kumpis found his calling working with juniors (Photo: Eddie Meeks). Nick Kumpis has been a golf instructor for eight years and has taught in more than 20 states. The Orange County native previously worked at Nicklaus/Flick and ESPN golf schools, where he was able to learn from top teaching professionals Jim Flick and Hank Haney. What was the first thing that attracted you to the game? My group of friends started playing for fun and I kept playing because I really enjoyed the challenging nature of the game — every shot is different, you're constantly working to improve. What inspired you to become a golf teacher? I was working with my instructor, Seth Glasco, in his junior camps. I had such a great time working with the kids, I knew it was something I wanted to do for a living. What’s the best golf tip you’ve ever received? Have one swing thought. Too many thoughts lead to tension. What’s the most common problem you see in your students and how do you fix it? I see people trying to swing like tour pros when they don’t have the flexibility or feel for the club. They use their body in the wrong sequence, which gets the club out of position and leads to improper compensation during the swing. What’s your best round ever and where? My best round is a 67 at ASU’s Karsten Golf Course. But my best day of golf came this past March when I completed a Land Rover 100 Holes in One Day event to benefit junior golf. What’s your favorite part of the game? I love being outside in the fresh air and on beautiful courses. I love that there is always something new to learn about the game and the golf swing. What’s your personal motto on the course? Compete on every shot. What is your most treasured golf possession? A signed picture of me and Jack Nicklaus at the Memorial Tournament. What phrase do you most use with your students? The harder I work, the luckier I seem to get. |
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