Coaching

The Club have appointed Mike McNally as the Head Professional based at the Academy, a highly accomplished PGA Professional, who brings a wealth of experience and an unwavering passion for coaching.
Background:
Originally hailing from Newcastle, Mike’s golf journey began at the age of 11. By the age of 16, he had achieved an impressive playing handicap of 3. His junior years were marked by representing Angus county at U14, U16, and U18 levels, showcasing early talent and commitment to the sport.
University Years:
In 2009, faced with the choice of a golf scholarship in America, Mike made the decision to become a student at The University of Stirling, known as “Scotland’s University for Sporting Excellence.” During his time at university, Mike played a crucial role in the re-establishment of the University Golf Club, serving in key roles as Team Captain, Secretary, and President. His exceptional contributions were recognised with a Colours Award for “Exceptional and Outstanding Contribution to the Game of Golf.” Mike graduated with an Honours Degree in Sports Studies.
International Experience:
Taking a hiatus from golf in 2012, Mike embarked on a two-year journey to Australia. There, he worked as a contractor on behalf of some of Australia’s leading sporting organizations and contributed to major sporting events, including The Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix, The Australian Open, and The Ashes.
Professional Career:
Upon his return in 2015, Mike spent a year managing the Pro Shop at Wearside Golf Club. In 2016, he made the move to Edinburgh, joining the team at Murrayfield before turning Professional in 2017. During his training, Mike was recognized as the Two-time PGA in Scotland Assistant of the Year.
Coaching Excellence:
Joining Peter Arnott Golf based at Swanston Golf Academy during the challenging times of COVID, Mike has been a dedicated full-time golf coach for over three years and has built a stellar reputation as one of the top coaches in Edinburgh. Mike is currently ranked as the #1 Golf Coach on Google, with an impressive 75+ 5-star reviews attesting to his coaching excellence.
Responsibilities as Head Professional:
In his new role as Head Professional, Mike has been entrusted with significant responsibilities:
Enhancing the overall experience for current members
Increasing and growing membership across all categories
Leading a team of skilled golf coaches through the Swanston Golf Academy – see below

Following our recent announcement about Mike McNally taking on the role of Head Professional at Swanston Golf Club, the Club can now announce more exciting news about the formation of the coaching team.

Coaching Team Appointments:

Mike McNally has been diligently working to assemble a team of highly skilled coaches dedicated to enhancing the Coaching Academy. The Club are delighted to introduce the following key appointment:

Chloe Thackeray – Fully Qualified PGA Coach (Level 2)

The Club are pleased to welcome PGA Coach Chloe Thackeray to the Swanston Golf Academy coaching team.
Chloe is a caring passionate coach whose love for the game lives through her students’ success. Chloe is highly motivated to assist in the development of our juniors, focused on their enjoyment and desire to play the game for life.
Chloe will also be available for adult lessons and programmes.

Key achievements:

  • Achieved golf scholarship to Oklahoma
  • Business Management & Marketing degree
  • Midlothian County Development Coach 2019-present
  • Midlothian Ladies First Team Squad Coach 2023-present
  • Representative Development Coach for Junior Tour Scotland

Chloe will officially start her role on 1st March however she is offering some free introductory coaching sessions for all Swanston members from January.
If you would like to book a free introductory lesson with Chloe you can do so via the link below:

https://www.swanstongolfacademy.com/book-golf-lesson-chloe-thackeray

Alan Watt – Assistant Coach (Level 1)

Alan Watt will also join our coaching team, focusing primarily on beginner adults and those in the early stages of their golfing development.
Should you know anyone who is interested in taking up the game, Alan is offering free introductory lessons for complete beginners and those new to the game.

If you would like to book a free introductory lesson with Alan you can do so via the link below:
https://www.swanstongolfacademy.com/book-golf-lesson-alan-watt

Peter Arnott – Practice & Performance Coach

 

Peter Arnott will continue his coaching journey at Swanston. Peter has recently accepted a part-time consultancy role as a Practice & Performance Coach for Swiss Golf, working with eight of their professional golfers on their practice and tournament play.
If you would like to schedule a lesson with Pete you can do do via the link below:

https://www.swanstongolfacademy.com/book-golf-lesson-peter-arnott

Mike McNally – Head PGA Professional

Alongside enhancing the overall experience for current members and increasing and growing membership across all categories, the new Head PGA Professional will be responsible for management of the coaching team via the Swanston Golf Academy.
If you would like to work with our Head Professional on your game you can book a free golf assessment with Mike via the link below:

https://www.swanstongolfacademy.com/book-golf-lesson-mike-mcnally

General Coaching Enquiries:

For all coaching enquires and for more information please visit the Swanston Golf Academy website to learn more: https://www.swanstongolfacademy.com/

 Exciting Initiatives Ahead:

The Club is enthusiastic about the positive impact the new coaching team will bring to Swanston Golf Club. Stay tuned for upcoming announcements, including opportunities to meet the coaches and learn more about the exciting initiatives planned for the Academy.

Please join the Club in extending a warm welcome to the new coaching team. The Club is confident that their passion, knowledge, and dedication will contribute to the success and growth of Swanston Golf Club.

Vision for the Future:
Mike’s deep love for Swanston and unwavering commitment makes the Club confident in his ability to contribute significantly to its continued success and growth. His vision, dedication, and clear goals align seamlessly with the Club’s ethos.
The Club is excited about the positive impact Mike will bring  and anticipate a thriving golf coaching academy under his leadership.

Mike can be contacted via email:
E-mail        [email protected]

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