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Head Coach
Gary Cooke · 35+ years coaching
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Gary · facility · coaching in action
Guaranteed improvement
Our philosophy
Most golf coaching fixes your swing.
We fix your score.

At The Playing Academy, Gary Cooke has spent over 35 years developing a coaching approach built entirely around on-course performance. Advanced biomechanical assessment, video analysis, 3D software and force plate technology — all with one goal: lower your score, not just improve your swing. Every session is purposeful, every plan is personal, and improvement is guaranteed.

Our approach About Gary
35+Years coaching
100%Improvement guaranteed
3Kent titles 2025–26
Age 7To Kent Champion
Why we exist

Tired of only booking lessons when your swing falls apart?

At The Playing Academy we're not here just to fix your slice or rescue your swing — we're here to help you score lower, starting with the game you have right now. No swing overhaul. No range-only sessions. Just better golf on the course, from day one.

Where Score Matters
Coaching services
Every path to better golf
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On-course performance
Score better on the course. Real situations, real decisions — coached by Gary on the course where it actually counts.
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One-to-one lessons
Personal biomechanical assessment, video analysis, 3D software and 1D force plates — a lesson built entirely around your body and your game.
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Worldwide
Online coaching
Gary's expertise available anywhere in the world. Submit your swing via the OnForm app and receive detailed video analysis, coaching feedback and a personal drill plan.
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Elite junior coaching
From first swing to county champion. Gary coached the 2025 Kent Amateur Champion, Kent U25 Champion and Kent Champion of Champions from the age of 7.
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Performance programmes
Structured multi-session programmes combining on-course play with range work and data analysis. Measurable progress with guaranteed improvement.
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Golf schools
Intensive programmes covering every aspect of scoring — tee strategy, short game, course management and performing under pressure.
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Putting improvement programmes
Dedicated putting coaching using Quintic Ball Roll analysis — the most detailed data-driven putting assessment available. Transform the part of your game that costs you the most shots.
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Fine Tuned Putters
Putter fitting
Authorised Fine Tuned Putter fitting with Quintic Ball Roll analysis. The right putter for your stroke, fitted with precision — not guesswork.
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Group lessons
Structured group sessions in a welcoming, sociable environment. Learn alongside others, build confidence and enjoy the community side of the game.
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Proven results
"Coached from the age of 7 — in 2025 he became Kent Amateur Champion, Kent Under-25 Champion, and Kent Champion of Champions 2026. Thirteen years of development, dedication and on-course performance coaching."
Gary Cooke — Head Coach
The Playing Academy, Whalebone Lane Golf Club, Chadwell Heath, Essex
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Find us
Address
Whalebone Lane Golf Club
Whalebone Lane North
Chadwell Heath, Essex RM6 6SB
Phone
0208 590 5457
07742 997563
Email
info@theplayingacademy.com
Hours
Mon–Fri: 9am–9pm
Sat: 8am–7pm  ·  Sun: 9am–5pm
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Why your lessons aren't improving your score
Most golfers practise the wrong things in the wrong place. Gary explains why the range is holding you back.
On-course performance
Teacher vs coach — the difference that matters
Understanding this distinction could be the most important decision you make about your golf development.
Coaching philosophy
Why every golfer can putt like a tour player
Putting has no physical ceiling. No strength or speed advantage exists on the green — here's what that means.
Putting
Course management — shots most amateurs get wrong
The most common on-course decision errors Gary sees — and the simple changes that immediately lower your score.
Scoring strategy
Junior golf development — what parents need to know
From first swing to county champion — Gary's guide to supporting your junior golfer at every stage.
Junior coaching
What is biomechanical golf coaching?
Force plates, 3D motion capture, video analysis — Gary explains the technology behind modern golf coaching.
Technology & coaching

Ready to play better golf?

Guaranteed improvement. Book your first session with Gary today.