PROFILE
Title: Regional Director of Instruction, Prince William Golf Course, Nokesville, Virginia.
Years as a PGA Professional: 20.
Top achievements / honors: Played in multiple tour events and national PGA events.
SOCIAL MEDIA / ONLINE
Twitter: @pbpga
Website: PrinceWilliamGolf.com
TAP-INS
What app is a must-have on your phone? Either Twitter or YouTube. I listen to some podcasts in the car. YouTube and Twitter allow me to keep up with my favorite teams.
What podcast(s) would you recommend? I only listen to a couple but I grew up as a huge wrestling fan so my favorite podcast is "Jim Cornette's Drive Thru."
Who is your favorite golfer? Nick Faldo and Greg Norman were my heroes growing up, so they will always be my favorites
What is your most memorable round of golf? This is hard because there have been a lot. If I have to pick one its probably my first section tournament win in 2013.
Q&A
The First Call: What made you want to pursue a career in golf?
Phil Bowers: Wanted to continue to play at a high level and be around golf and golfers.
TFC: What is your favorite instructional tip to share with a golfer?
PB: Have a plan. Never try to make a change unless you have a plan for what you want to get out of the change.
TFC: What advice do you have for someone considering a career in golf?
PB: It is a great field to be in, but you have to understand there is a difference between working in golf and being at the golf course. Golf is a lot of hours and hard work, but it is very rewarding if you are willing to put the effort in.
TFC: What is the best advice you have received on your career path?
PB: Never miss an opportunity to learn and better yourself.
TFC: Is there a particular area of your job that you find most rewarding?
PB: Giving a player a reason to play more golf. When someone comes up to me and says they look forward to playing more because I helped them improve, that gives me a great feeling.
TFC: Do you have a preferred style or philosophy for teaching golf?
PB: I have always looked toward the teachings of Ernest Jones and Manuel De la Torre for inspiration on how to help the most golfers.
TFC: Where is there room for growth within the industry?
PB: The industry is short on good people right now. There is a plenty of room for growth with golf professionals.
TFC: How does being a PGA Professional add value to your brand?
PB: I have been a PGA member for almost 20 years now and it is something I take very seriously. Having the badge identifies me as someone who puts in the work every year to be better at my craft. I have served on my section board and multiple committees over the last 20 years, and I have always been available to help other members get better at what they do. Being a PGA member immediately makes me recognized as a leader within the industry.