Golf Digest Best Young Teachers in America (2025–2026)
Stuart McKechnie
Golf Digest Best Young Teachers & PGA Professional helping juniors and golfers of all levels reach their full potential through science-based, personalized coaching.
Phenom Golf Lab · Charlotte, NC, USA · Golf
Reviews
466
Starting Price
$125.00
Lessons
1391
Followers
105
Social Media
Credentials
Highlights
- Named by Golf Digest as one of the Best Young Teachers in America (2025–2026)
- Multiple junior players recruited to Division I college golf programs
- Winner at junior, amateur, collegiate, and professional levels
- Over a decade of coaching experience spanning all ages and skill levels
- Specializes in competitive junior development from age 7 through college recruitment
Teaching Philosophy
I believe great coaching is built on three pillars: understanding the individual, applying the science, and making it personal. No two golfers are the same — your body, your swing, and your goals are unique to you, and that's exactly how I approach every lesson. With a Master's degree in Kinesiology and TPI Level 3 certification, I use the latest technology — from launch monitors and force plates to video analysis — to understand not just what your swing looks like, but why your body moves the way it does and how we can unlock more power, consistency, and confidence. But technique is only part of the picture. I've seen talented golfers struggle under pressure not because of their swing, but because of what's going on between the ears. That's why I integrate mental game coaching and confidence-building into everything I do. I want my players to be prepared for competition — not just the range. Whether you're a junior dreaming of college golf, a high schooler trying to make the varsity team, or an adult golfer who wants to finally break through a plateau, I'll help you identify what's holding you back and build a clear, structured plan to get you where you want to go. Golf is a game for life, and I'm passionate about helping every student fall in love with the process of getting better.
About the coach
I'm a PGA Class A Professional and Golf Digest Best Young Teacher in America, based at Phenom Golf Lab in Charlotte, NC. Originally from Scotland, I grew up as a competitive junior golfer and experienced firsthand what it takes to earn a college golf scholarship — and that journey shapes everything I do as a coach today.
With over a 13 years of coaching experience, a Master of Science in Kinesiology, and TPI Level 3 certification, I bring a science-driven, player-first approach to every lesson. I've coached at all levels — junior, high school, collegiate, and beyond — and many of my junior students have gone on to earn Division I college golf scholarships. I specialize in competitive junior development for players ages 7 through college, but I work with golfers of all ages and abilities.
At Phenom Golf Lab, I have access to cutting-edge technology including Foresight Sports launch monitors, SAM Putt Lab, Smart 2 Move force plates, and a full fitness space. This allows me to analyze every dimension of your game — your swing mechanics, ground force production, ball flight data, and putting stroke — with precision. Combined with detailed video analysis and personalized practice plans, I can identify exactly what's holding you back and build a roadmap to your goals.
Beyond the technical side, I take the mental game seriously. Whether it's handling pressure in tournaments, building confidence after a tough round, or preparing for college recruitment, I guide my students and their families through the full competitive journey. If you're ready to train with purpose and take your game to the next level, let's get to work.
Specialities
Videos
Mastering Green Reading: Straight Putt Technique
How to Record Your Swing
Reviews
Based on 466 ratings
Overall rating
Consistently impressed by every lesson and always walk away with good information, drills, and a renewed sense of where I need to focus my attention.
Miles Herleikson
August 29, 2026 • Live
Exceptional lesson, incredibly clear and practical advice - thank you.
Simon sicollier@hotmail.com
August 23, 2026 • Online
Stuart's analysis and advice are always spot on and greatly appreciated!!
Mike DiMicco
August 14, 2026 • Online
Great session. Really did an entire overview of how she moves naturally and worked from theregot her doing correct movements with out over coaching. He kept everything simple with easy-to-understand d…
Leelyn Powell
June 6, 2026 • Live
always a pleasure
Mike DiMicco
June 5, 2026 • Live
Purchase Options
Golf Performance Plan (Junior, High School, & College)
Unlimited Online Lessons- Improve your swing, practice habits and on-course performance with personalized video analysis, practice plans and ongoing feedback.
- - Unlimited Swing Reviews – Send as many swing videos as you want each month and receive detailed feedback, drills, and next steps.
- - Unlimited Messenger Support – Ask questions anytime. Get clarity on mechanics, practice structure, tournament prep, and mindset.
- - Technique Coaching – Holistic coaching that covers swing mechanics on any part of the game.
- - Access to EARL App to track stats and design practice plans
Adult Unlimited Plan
Unlimited Online Lessons- Detailed video analysis of your golf swing using Skillest's analytical tool
- Customized video of myself demonstrating exactly what you need to work on and how your swing/body will work
- Customized drills that will help you integrate any changes required
- Unlimited Swing Reviews – Send unlimited videos and get detailed, personalized feedback anytime.
- Unlimited Messaging Support – Ask questions, get clarifications, and receive guidance throughout the week.
- 48 Hour Turnaround Time
