ACADEMY OF GOLF
RTJ GOLF TRAIL AT GRAND NATIONAL | AUBURN/OPELIKA, ALABAMA
Welcome to the Academy of Golf at RTJ Grand National, where expert instruction meets state-of-the-art technology. We don't just teach the fundamentals—we help you understand, refine, and build a more efficient, repeatable swing for measurable improvement. Our Class A PGA Professional, John King, combines proven coaching techniques, advanced technology, and personalized instruction to help golfers of every skill level reach their goals. His data-driven approach incorporates TrackMan, 3D motion analysis, pressure mapping, and the JKG Performance Band System™ to develop a program tailored to each player's body and goals.
Whether you're a beginner or a competitive player, John's experience and innovative approach provide the tools and expertise to help you improve your game and play with greater confidence.
ABOUT JOHN KING, PGA
With more than 25 years of experience in player development and high-performance coaching, Class A PGA Professional John King brings a proven, technology-driven approach to golf instruction at Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at Grand National.
John works with golfers of all skill levels—from beginners to competitive players—helping each develop a more efficient, repeatable swing. His instruction combines biomechanics, TrackMan, 3D motion analysis, pressure mapping, and his proprietary JKG Performance Band System™ to create personalized training programs built around each player's body, goals, and performance.
John's career includes leadership roles at premier golf facilities throughout the East Coast. From 2018 to 2026, he served as Head Golf Professional at Poland Spring Resort in Maine, overseeing golf operations, player development, merchandising, tournaments, and member and guest services. He previously owned and operated The Golf Performance Studio of Auburn in Alabama, an indoor training facility focused on technology and long-term player development.
Earlier in his career, John was recruited by Ken Venturi to the Ken Venturi Golf Academy at Greenlefe in Haines City, Florida, eventually becoming Director of Instruction and owner of the academy's Grandover Resort location in Greensboro, North Carolina. From 2005 to 2014, he served as Director of Instruction at Saugahatchee Country Club, earning Dixie Section PGA honors as Teacher of the Year and Junior Golf Leader for the Alabama Chapter, as well as Golf Digest's #3 Top Teacher in Alabama.
John's recent honors include the 2025 New England PGA Maine Chapter Teacher of the Year, Golf Digest Top Teacher in State for 2025 and 2026, and the 2024 New England PGA Merchandiser of the Year - Resort Category.
His philosophy is simple: help every golfer find the most efficient swing for their body. By combining proven coaching principles, advanced technology, and structured training, John helps players achieve measurable, lasting improvement.
BOOK YOUR LESSON
We’re here to help you improve, enjoy, and excel at every stage of your golfing journey. Let us guide you to your next breakthrough.
John King
Director of Instruction
RTJ Golf Trail at Grand National
johnking@pga.com
(334) 759-0013