dedicated pga professionals
Our team is your solution
At Thetford Golf Academy, our team is passionate about delivering exceptional golf tuition to help you improve your game and reach your full potential. With a friendly, experienced coaching staff and a commitment to personalised instruction, we’re here to support golfers of all ages and abilities on their journey.
head professional
Stuart Smith
Being the Head Professional at Thetford Golf Club is both an honour and a privilege one I’m incredibly proud of.
Having been part of the club for over 13 years, I’ve seen it evolve and grow in many ways. One area I’ve been particularly passionate about is developing our golf academy. Today, I truly believe we have the best coaching team in Norfolk.
I’m especially passionate about coaching the short game and have developed the Instrike System, a proven approach that has helped transform golfers struggling with the yips into confident, solid players around the green.
Whether you’re a complete beginner, a junior golfer, someone looking to improve your game, or seeking specialist guidance, my team is here to help.
Get in touch today and let us help transform your game.
head coach
Owen Mills
After spending several years as a caddie on one of the major tours, Owen Mills, our Head Coach, has brought a wealth of knowledge and experience to his coaching. Owen’s unique approach creates a relaxed and welcoming environment from the very first session, which is essential for building confidence and driving personal improvement.
Unlike many other coaches, Owen covers all areas of the game and is a superb all-round coach, making him an excellent choice for players looking to improve every aspect of their performance.
He takes great pride in helping his pupils progress and has a natural talent for working with club golfers and beginners alike.
Lesson Availability – Monday 9am – 7pm Tuesday 9am – 5pm Thursday 9am – 7pm Friday 9am – 4pm Sunday 11am – 3pm
elite coach
Jamie Abbott
Jamie brings world class experience to Thetford Golf Academy as our Elite Coach, having competed on the European Tour and spent over 20 years working with and consulting some of the game’s top coaches.
He has played alongside elite players such as Rory McIlroy and Tommy Fleetwood, and his insight into high level performance makes him uniquely positioned to support golfers with serious ambitions.
Jamie’s blend of technical expertise, tour level insight, and approachable, personalised coaching style makes him an outstanding choice for players who take their game seriously.
Lesson Availability – Wednesday – 2pm – 8pm Friday – 2pm-8pm
putting specialist coach
David Ball
David Ball is our dedicated Putting Coach at Thetford Golf Academy, offering expert insight into one of the most important (and often overlooked) parts of the game. With years of experience and a focused approach, David helps players of all levels transform their performance on the greens.
Using Vertex, a cutting-edge putting analysis software, David provides detailed, data-driven feedback to identify strengths, correct weaknesses, and refine your stroke. Whether you’re struggling with consistency or aiming to shave strokes off your scorecard, his sessions offer the precision and clarity needed to make real progress.
Lesson Availability – Mondays from 2:30pm Fridays from 2:30pm
junior coach
Charlie Donoghue
Charlie Donoghue leads our junior coaching programme at Thetford Golf Academy, helping the next generation of golfers learn, improve, and fall in love with the game.
As our dedicated Junior Coach, Charlie runs fun and engaging group sessions every Sunday, designed specifically for young players. His sessions focus on developing golf skills in a supportive, safe, and enjoyable environment, where kids can grow in confidence and make new friends along the way.
Lesson Availability Monday/Tuesday/Friday/Saturday – From 3:30pm
