Honoring Excellence: Jon Hardesty Named 2025 Teacher & Coach of the Year
Jon Hardesty has been named the 2025 PGA Sections Teacher & Coach of the Year in recognition of his innovative approach to golf instruction. His teaching methodology integrates biomechanics and physics to reframe how golf fundamentals are understood and taught. The honor highlights the growing emphasis on science-based coaching within the golf education community.
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Key takeaways
Jon Hardesty was named the 2025 PGA Sections Teacher & Coach of the Year.
His instructional approach uniquely incorporates biomechanics and physics into golf fundamentals.
The award recognizes coaches who demonstrate excellence and innovation in golf education.
In a world where tradition often rules the game, it takes a curious mind and a well-worn backpack to spark a quiet revolution. Back in 2007, at a seemingly routine PGA of America Section meeting in Lexington, Jon Hardesty showed up not just as an attendee, but as a student on a mission. That mission—rooted in biomechanics, physics, and a relentless pursuit of truth—helped steer golf instruction toward a more evidence-based future. His approach wasn't about gimmicks or quick fixes, but about asking the hard questions and aligning teaching methods with real science. That kind of forward thinking isn't just rare—it's transformative. Today, Jon stands recognized as the 2025 Teacher & Coach of the Year for the Kentucky PGA Section, a title earned through years of passion and purpose. To reflect on this journey and honor the legacy it inspires, we now turn to two voices who know him best—Mike Finney of the University of Louisville Golf Club and Derrick Griffitts of Clear Creek Golf Course.
That kind of forward thinking isn't just rare—it's transformative.
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