Today we’d like to introduce you to Matthew Clay
Hi Matthew, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Golf has been a huge driving force in my life and has taught me multiple skills that have helped me on and off the golf course. My father was a Division I college golfer and taught me how to play when I was 5 years old. He himself learned from his father and also taught my brother to play.
I spent many years in retail with Circuit City, many years ago which gave me great insight into customer behaviors and choices. I also found I enjoyed meeting various families and creating new connections.
After my time in retail I spent 2 years in the Peace Corps while living in Bulgaria. That gave me a great opportunity to learn a new language, experience a new culture and enjoy a slower pace of life. After the Peace Corps I decided to make golf my future and moved to San Diego. I started working in the industry but found that I really enjoyed the public side of golf and being able to expose new players to the game. I was fortunate to become involved with the Del Mar Golf Center on the management side and was able to buy into the company.
Working at a public range has brought back memories of our Sunday afternoons at the practice range very fondly. Being able to help others create those kinds of memories is one of my main goals as an instructor and coach. I have three young children, 2 girls and a boy, and they all play. My wife has picked up the game so she can join us on family golf outings. You could say Golf is our family sport.
Golf provides the venue to teach respect, responsibility, good sportsmanship, hard work, dedication and many other skills that are valuable on and off the golf course. It is one of the only sports you can play your entire life with players of all ability levels.
My father always stressed two fundamentals: “Swing Hard” and “Stay in Balance.” These two concepts have shaped my golf philosophy and are goals I strive for with all of my athletes. My favorite moments with young golfers is to be the first person to put a golf club in their hands and to see the smile when they hit a great shot and can’t stop yelling “Coach Matt, Coach Matt, did you see that!!” Many times my smile is bigger than theirs.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The most challenging period of my time here at the golf center was during Covid. We opened our business as much as local officials would allow but we had to alter our operation at every level. Standing down at our front gate taking temperatures for over a month was not the most enjoyable situation. 99% of customers were great but there are always a few that make life more challenging.
We were able to bring back all of our staff as soon as the county gave us the thumbs up. Covid has changed the golf landscape and we hope to continue the positive momentum.
As you know, we’re big fans of Del Mar Golf Center. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
The Del Mar Golf Center is a Top 50 stand alone range and has been a part of the local community for over 50 years. We are home to Pelly’s Mini Golf. the only 100% ADA accessible miniature golf courses in the country. The DMGC was the 3rd location in the country to install a ball tracking system, Toptracer. This system enables customers to gather exact data on every shot they hit and can play games and training options.
The Academy at the Del Mar Golf Center is something we are very proud of. We have 140 young athletes who come to sessions every week to enhance their golf ability and the physical literacy. MILO Strong is our on site gym and all of our athletes work with golf coaches and trainers.
What matters most to you?
I try to manage our business with 2 main priorities, take great care of our customers and take great care of our staff. If we make choices that respect both of those principles, I think we will all make the best choice.
Pricing:
- Range balls: $15 – $22
- Golf Lessons: $60 – $350 depending on package
- Mini Golf: $10 – $12 per round
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.delmargolfcenter.com
- Instagram: @delmargolfcenter
