The Verdict Ridge Golf and Country Club Pro Shop is staffed with some of the most personable people that you will find at any golf club. We strive to make your golfing experience first rate each and every time you come to the club. Golf instruction is available by Class-A Members of the PGA of America. Our pros are available for individual and group instruction for all ages and skill levels. They continually research the golf industry and are knowledgeable on equipment and teaching methods to ensure that each golfer is equipped to take his or her game to the next level.

Golf Members receive free range balls to help them work on their game.

Jim Lusk (Head Golf Professional)  

Jim was born and raised in Arkport, NY and has lived and worked in the Metropolitan PGA since 1999. Jim is a graduate and two-time All-American at Ferris State University in Big Rapids, MI. In his first professional event, he successfully qualified for and played in the 1999 Buick Classic at Westchester Country Club. He has taught and coached five junior golfers that have gone on to play successfully at the college level.  Jim has served various roles within the Metropolitan PGA, most recently as Tournament Chairman from 2017-2020. He brings vast experience within the golf industry including teaching, club fitting, golf shop management, tournament operations, member services and personnel development.

Jake Haynes (Assistant Professional) 
Jake joined our professional staff after beginning his career at Eagle Point Country Club in Wilmington, NC.  He was a graduate of NC State's PGA program and he is very proficient at teaching players of all skill levels. He is an exceptional teacher of new students and introducing them to the fundamentals of golf and etiquette. Lessons with Jake can be scheduled weekly through the Verdict Ridge golf shop and he also provides on-course instruction to improve a player's course management to lower scores.

JUSTIN MORGAN (Assistant Professional)
Justin joins Verdict Ridge following a stellar golf career at Applachian State University. He was born and raised in the greater, Lake Norman area, where he attended Lincoln Charter School, winning a State Championship for the 2017 Golf team.
 

Blair Smith Instruction

Blair Smith is originally from Alabama and played golf at the University of North Alabama and then professionally on the NGA Hooters/Nationwide Tour.
He lives in Huntersville, NC with his wife, Debbie, and they have two children,  Lauren and  Jordan. Blair has been in the golf business for 24 years and has a passion for teaching, serving as Director of Instruction and also Assistant Golf Professional at Birkdale from 2007-2016. He has also taught at Cabarrus Country Club, Davidson College and personal instruction with many of my students in the area. Blair is available for individual lessons to men, ladies and juniors.