We are very excited to welcome you to the newest member of our golf team! Meet Jim LaBuda, our new Assistant Golf Professional.

 

Jim has lived in the Buffalo, NY area his entire life, with more than 20 years of experience in the golf industry. In high school, he began working as an attendant at a retail golf store. He then played Division I golf for Canisius College while pursuing a degree in Finance. Upon graduating, he followed his degree to a career in Finance, but didn't let his love of golf fall by the wayside.

 

He completed the courses necessary to become a golf teacher as part of the USGTF, and passed the written exam and the Playing Ability Test to become a Certified Golf Teaching Professional. Eventually, he left the realm of Finance, and took up his passion for golf as a full-time career, which in his words is a "dream come true!" 

Beyond having another golf professional to assist with the day-to-day operations, we're also excited to be able to now offer Certified Golf Lessons to our customers. Jim is not only USGTF Certified, he's also a Certified Golf Psychology Coach and a RST Swing System Certified Instructor. He offers lessons for every skill level, as well as individual, group, and junior lessons. For more information, click here. 

Want to get to know Jim even better? We took care of that, too. Read more of our candid interview with him below:

 

Favorite Hole at Terry Hills?

My favorite hole would have to be the 18th hole.  I love the challenge and reward potential of the par 5.  Your drive is key for getting to the green in 2 shots. It's not an easy up and down to save par.  It's a great finishing hole for those 9 holes.

Favorite Vacation spot?

My family and I love Walt Disney World. We have been there for every season at least once. Our favorite times are around Halloween and Christmas because everything is lit up and decorated for that holiday. The decorations and displays are quite extravagant and it’s an amazing sight to see.  We also enjoy the time around the Food and Wine festival in EPCOT. It’s a world culinary experience all in one place.

What is the best dish you make?

I love making anything on the grill, but my wife tells me that my best dish is my Vodka Pasta.

If you had to pick any TV show to binge watch, what would it be?

I love adventure so I’m currently hooked on Expedition Unknown. Otherwise, anything on the Travel Channel works for me.

Biggest challenge facing the golf industry?

I believe the biggest challenge facing the golf industry right now is attracting younger players to the game, especially in an area that is seasonal with very cold Winter months. It’s evident that with the emergence of smart phones and technological advances in gaming that kids have moved from active lifestyles to more sedentary.  There just aren’t as many junior golfers playing as there have been in years past.  We need creative and affordable programs to introduce the younger players to the game to show them that while golf can be a challenging game it is also fun and rewarding.  

What are you most excited for in your new role at Terry Hills?

I'm excited to have the opportunity to work at WNY’s number one public golf course.  I always enjoy meeting new people that love the game as much as I do.  The learning experience is invaluable and the dedication of every staff member here at Terry Hills to their customers is unmatched to other places I have been.