“We have a great deal of fun,” says Cunningham, a 15-year British PGA teaching professional whose credits include working with David Leadbetter for five years and competing in European Tour and Challenge Tour events. In 1995, Kevyn was 3rd in the Order of Merit for the Austrian PGA. “I think students come to me hoping to gain perspective on how to improve,” adds Cunningham. “They leave with that, plus a good understanding of the concept of a repetitive golf swing. And of course, laughter aids the learning process!”  

Cunningham’s ability to warm up to those around him and share his passion for the game of golf was never more evident than when he finally convinced a 74-year-old to play. “He’s been the owner of the resort where I’m based since before the golf course was built by Robert Trent Jones in 1962,” says Cunningham. “He swore he would never play golf, but I managed to talk him into a few lessons and now we play five holes regularly at 7:30 AM. Now that’s rewarding.”

Born in Bedford, England and a golfer since he was 12, Cunningham played the game growing up in the British School System. He experienced success as an amateur and grew to appreciate the solitude of golf. Turning professional seemed the next natural step. As a competitor on the European Tour, Cunningham teed it up in three Austrian Opens, and demonstrated his talents with one shot in particular that he’ll never forget. Cunningham came to the 18^th hole at 1 under in the first round of the Austrian Open. He nailed his second shot over water with a 3-iron to four feet. Cunningham sank the putt for eagle and headed for the clubhouse with a smile. It’s no surprise, then, that Cunningham has come to believe the best part of his game is his ability to hit long irons.

“When I practice, depending on what I am working on, I try to learn a feel through the short game and then bring this feel to the full swing,” explains Cunningham. “The use of video is also extremely helpful.” Such efforts in his own game come through in his teaching methods. Cunningham works with advanced players in a similar fashion, encouraging them to “learn their own swing.” He works with these players using video, and encourages them to play with better players and travel to tour events to watch others compete. Cunningham’s communication skills and easy demeanor make it possible for him to work with any level player; he is equally helpful to beginner and intermediate students.

According to Cunningham, beginners need to take lessons consistently and be patient. “They need to develop discipline and not be afraid to ask questions,” adds Cunningham. When it comes to intermediate level players, Cunningham really hones the fundamentals: posture, grip, ball position and so forth. He adds that learning how to practice properly can be extremely beneficial. “Any idiot can hit balls,” notes Cunningham. He helps students get more out of practice sessions than simply making contact with the ball.