When coaches talk about innovation in junior golf development, Jake Martin, PGA, stands out as a leader who doesn’t just follow trends, he sets them. At Big Spring Country Club in Louisville, Kentucky, Jake has transformed his coaching business by putting relationships and structure at the center of everything he does.
As Director of Player Development at Big Spring Country Club in Louisville, Kentucky, Jake implemented Operation 36 with one mission in mind: to create a system that delivers real, lasting results for players, families, and the club.
"The one thing that has made the biggest impact is getting to know our families very well," Jake shares. "Gaining their trust has helped us build a program that not only keeps golfers engaged but also grows our coaching revenue."
For Jake, coaching success is rooted in human connection. That might sound simple, but few programs operationalize trust the way his does.
"We make it a priority to connect with families," Jake explains. "That means conversations after class, remembering each child’s goals, and creating an environment where parents feel like true partners in their child’s development."
That trust doesn’t just create goodwill—it creates growth. Parents become advocates. Kids stay engaged. And the business thrives.
Operation 36 isn’t just a curriculum. It’s a system designed to create momentum—for players and for coaches.
"Unlike other programs, Operation 36 puts kids on a path," Jake says. "It makes progress visible. It gives players a mission. That clarity makes all the difference." With structured match play, clear milestones, and a gamified learning journey, Jake has found a model that drives motivation and results. "We’re not guessing what to do each week. And neither are the families."
Jake's advice to coaches is straightforward, but powerful.
"Start small, but start intentionally. Don’t try to do everything at once. Focus on building relationships and delivering value. Operation 36 gives you a system to scale once you have that foundation." He continued, "If you're serious about building a sustainable coaching business, Operation 36 gives you the tools," he says. "You’ll see more lesson revenue, you’ll retain more players, and you’ll offer something that genuinely excites families."
Jake Martin is part of a growing movement of PGA professionals who are elevating junior golf through intentional, structured programming. His success is proof that when you lead with trust and back it with a proven system, you don’t just fill classes—you build something lasting.
About Jake Martin:
Jake Martin is the Director of Player Development at Big Spring Country Club in Louisville, KY. A PGA Member since 2000, Jake brings decades of experience from top West Coast clubs and a deep passion for introducing players to the game. Known for his relationship-driven approach and structured coaching style, Jake has built a thriving program around the Operation 36 model. His mission is to create a welcoming, engaging learning environment that helps players of all ages fall in love with golf—and stay with it for life.
Behind the scenes, Operation 36 is the only company in golf tracking a beginner’s journey from their first 9 holes to shooting par from the full tee box.
With over 200,000 golfers introduced to the game, it is clear that there is a large time gap between day one and when a golfer is ready for a Handicap. Operation 36 is committed to creating more lifelong golfers by closing the gap in beginner retention, providing the tools and programs that make learning fun and motivating at every step.
Interested in bringing Operation 36 to your Facility?
Share This Article
