Virgil Herring from High Performance Golf Academy joined Karisa Maxwell and Sports Philanthropy Network on Radio Row at the Super Bowl. Herring shared his insight into how the mental strategies used in golf can translate to success in business and life, emphasizing perseverance, overcoming adversity, and structured practice. He also discussed his advocacy for military veterans, highlighting the challenges they face transitioning to civilian life and the support systems available to help them adjust.
Virgil Herring
Virgil Herring is a seasoned professional in the golf industry, currently serving as the Director of Golf at Ensworth School in Nashville, Tennessee. With a career spanning over two decades, he has established himself as a prominent figure in golf coaching and instruction. At Ensworth School, Herring oversees the golf program, mentoring young athletes and fostering their development both on and off the course.
In addition to his role at Ensworth, Herring is the Director of Instruction at the Franklin Bridge Performance Institute. Here, he provides personalized coaching to golfers of all skill levels, emphasizing technique improvement and mental fortitude. His instructional approach combines traditional coaching methods with modern technology, ensuring that students receive comprehensive training tailored to their individual needs.
Herring’s expertise has been recognized beyond the local community. He has authored instructional materials and contributed to various golf publications, sharing insights on swing mechanics and game strategy. His dedication to the sport and commitment to excellence have made him a respected mentor in the golfing world, influencing both aspiring golfers and fellow coaches.
High Performance Golf Academy
High Performance Golf Academy, located in the greater Lexington, Kentucky area, is dedicated to providing top-notch golf instruction to players of all ages and skill levels. Their mission centers on fostering a passionate learning environment, with a staff committed to continually enhancing their golf knowledge and teaching methods. The academy aims to become the most comprehensive golf training facility in America, offering a range of programs tailored to individual needs.
The academy offers various programs, including private coaching, golf schools, high-performance fitness training, and custom learning plans. They also provide specialized services like AimPoint Express green reading instruction and professional club fitting using the latest technology. For junior golfers, the academy hosts summer camps, PGA Junior League participation, spring training sessions, and after-school programs, ensuring young players have ample opportunities to develop their skills in a supportive environment. Their collective expertise and dedication to student success have established the academy as a premier destination for golf instruction in Kentucky.
WATCH INTERVIEW
0:00 – 0:06 – Karisa Maxwell introduces Virgil Herring on the Sports Philanthropy Network at Radio Row, joking about getting golf swing help but emphasizing the mental aspect of the game.
0:07 – 0:25 – Herring explains that mastering any skill—whether in golf, business, or life—follows a structured process that helps individuals manage emotions and setbacks.
0:26 – 1:22 – He discusses how handling adversity and developing perseverance is crucial in both sports and life, as failure despite preparation can be mentally challenging.
1:23 – 2:21 – The conversation shifts to how golfers, despite the sport’s frustrations, keep coming back due to the rewarding feeling of improvement and accomplishment.
2:22 – 3:22 – Herring outlines the learning process in golf: moving from hope to belief to certainty, emphasizing efficient and effective practice as the key to mastery.
3:23 – 4:37 – He describes his experience coaching NFL and NHL players, noting that their team-sport mentality and competitive nature make golf uniquely challenging for them.
4:38 – 5:27 – Herring explains that the challenge of golf keeps players engaged, as overcoming difficulties and achieving small successes builds confidence and self-image.
5:28 – 6:18 – He highlights the importance of understanding mistakes in golf, as frustration often stems from not knowing how to correct errors, making information crucial.
6:19 – 8:22 – When asked about the best golfing NFL player, he names Josh Allen and advises looking out for punters and kickers, who tend to be strong golfers.
8:23 – 10:28 – Herring shares his passion for advocating for military veterans, inspired by his sister’s service, and explains the challenges veterans face transitioning to civilian life.
