Rick defines learning as "involving a set of internal processes associated with practice or experience leading to relatively permanent changes in the capability for skill." The Association provides training for golf professionals who want to want to facilitate learning by shifting from teaching golf to coaching golf. 

 

This involves changing from a transactional model in which information is delivered in one or a series of lessons, to a model in which coaches develop a consistent, long-term relationship with players. Together, they set goals and  make plans. Coaches provide feedback, on and off the course. They use their expertise in ball control, decision-making and self-management to move players toward improved performance - on the golf course, not on the lesson tee. The relationship is not about solving the problem from the last round. It is about developing skill and transferring it to the course.

 

The training provided relies on the sciences of motor learning, bio mechanics, sports psychology and more to prepare coaches to truly develop the skills of their players and not just analyze golf swings.