Coaches & Teaching Philosophy

Rich Jones, Class A PGA Professional and Certified First Tee Coach, was elected to PGA Membership in 2003, and has been a Golf Professional since 1998. Rich has extensive experience coaching adult men/women, juniors, seniors, disabled golfers and professional athletes.

In addition to specializing in junior instruction, Rich’s greatest testimony is perhaps the hundreds of adults he has introduced to the game of golf.  Rich is recognized as a professional who is always enthusiastic and available to help those who want to learn.  From beginners, high handicappers, top amateurs or professionals, men, women, seniors or disabled golfers, Rich delivers a variety of individual one-on-one instruction to multi-learner camps and clinics.  All students find Rich’s teaching style and philosophy easy to understand and effective, with immediate results that carry over to the golf course.

As a PGA professional, I am committed to helping students achieve a greater enjoyment of the game. Whether they are just being introduced to the game, or training for high level tournament play, my time tested techniques help them realize their golfing goals. Strong emphasis is placed on the importance of pre-swing fundamentals. Proper grip, aim, stance, balance, posture, alignment and ball position are the foundation and basis of any good golf swing.

Educating students on the how’s and why’s, and not just the do’s and dont’s, is fundamental to my swing philosophy. Understanding the cause and effect relationships in golf help students become better players.  The more knowledge students have, the better equipped they will be to handle the challenges of this game. I base my teaching on the nine Ball Flight Laws of Golf and am committed to helping students better understand their golf swing.

Students learn new tasks differently. As an instructor, it is my responsibility to ensure the message is understood in the most concise method possible. There are three methods of learning: HEARING IT, SEEING IT, and FEELING IT.  I believe in utilizing all three styles. Extensive use of video and technology help enhance the learning experience. “Feel and real” must be the same to play consistent golf. Swing development requires practice along with professional guidance to keep students on the path to better golf. Practicing correctly, with prescribed swing drills, will help accomplish this goal.

“I feel privileged to be able to help shape and mold students’ outlook on golf, because I know golf will shape their outlook on life.  I understand I am teaching more than how to play a game.  I have developed a love and passion for teaching.  I believe in this so much that I have dedicated my career to making golf accessible and affordable for juniors, especially those who would not normally have the chance to play.  It is my gift to share, my responsibility, and my way of giving back.

Richard “Richie” Jones is a recent Magna Cum Laude graduate from Howard University, where he earned his degree in Business Marketing while competing as a Division I Student-Athlete on the Men’s Golf team. With a passion for leadership and golf education, Richie is dedicated to advancing his career in the golf industry.

Currently, he serves as the Director of Golf at the Jones Golf Academy, where he leads the development and execution of innovative lesson plans, manages the coaching staff, and ensures the delivery of top-tier instruction for both adult and junior players. Richie is also actively working towards his PGA certification to further elevate his expertise and professional standing in the sport. As a Long Island, NY native, Richie remains committed to personal growth, continuous learning, and making meaningful contributions to the future of golf.

As the Director of Golf at the Jones Golf Academy, my mission is to create a welcoming environment where golfers of all skill levels can grow their game and enjoy the journey of improvement. Having competed at the Division 1 level in college golf, I understand the discipline and focus required to succeed. I bring that same drive to my coaching, tailoring my instruction to each student’s unique needs and learning style.

I emphasize the importance of pre-swing fundamentals—grip, posture, stance, and alignment—because these are the building blocks of every good golf swing. However, I also believe that golf instruction is more than just mechanics. It’s about understanding how to adapt and adjust, whether you’re a beginner or an advanced player.

I utilize technology and video analysis to help students bridge the gap between what they feel and what is actually happening in their swing. By combining this with individualized practice plans and clear communication, I ensure that each student makes meaningful progress toward their goals, whether they’re striving for consistency or preparing for competition.

Golf has given me so much, and I am passionate about sharing that gift with others. Whether I’m coaching juniors, working with adults, or leading a team, I am dedicated to helping students not just play better golf but also gain confidence in themselves and their abilities.