About Simon
Simon grew up playing golf at Seaton Carew Golf Club - where his grandparents were stewards for many years. His first win on the national stage came at the English Boys’ U14s Championship, and he reached a scratch handicap for the first time at the age of 16.
At 18, he became European and World boys’ champion, and reduced his handicap to plus-three.
He was then recruited by the University of Houston - a record 16-time national championship-winning team - on a golf scholarship. Following four years in Houston, he achieved a degree in sociology and returned to the North East.
Throughout his amateur career, Simon also represented England and Great Britain - partnering players such as Graeme McDowell, Justin Rose and Nick Dougherty.
Having returned home, Simon turned professional. In his first season on PGA EuroPro Tour, he won three tournaments (becoming the first player to do so). The wins earned him a Challenge Tour card for the following season. He then spent four years competing on the Challenge Tour - winning in 2009 at the SK Challenge in Finland. That win confirmed his step up to the European Tour in 2009 and 2010 – which saw Simon compete with the best players in the world on a weekly basis.
Having stepped back from playing full-time on tour, Simon completed a PGCE in Primary Education (meaning he’s also a fully qualified primary school teacher).
Simon is currently a senior PGA teaching professional at Close House, having previously been based at Sharpley and Rockliffe Hall.
Simon continues to compete on the PGA circuit, primarily in the North East & North West area and in the North Region – where he continues to win regularly among a talented crop of the north’s best players.
Simon has coached at the highest level, working with players who have competed on the DP World Tour and in major championships. He believes in a systematic approach to coaching, and his influences include Andy Plummer, Mike Bennett, Mac O'Grady and Homer Kelley as well as Stack & Tilt and The Golfing Machine.
Simon winning on the Challenge Tour
Simon in action
What Simon's students say:
''Hi Simon, just a line to let you know I had a good day on the course - although very windy, Very pleased with my rescue and three-wood shots, Currently lying joint top on the Top Dog leaderboard with three weeks to go. Thanks again for your valuable guidance.''
- Colin B
"Just wanted you to know that I played with the ladies at Houghton today and recorded my score for the first time for ages. I scored 40 points (best score of the day!). Thank you!''
- Chris
"Just a quick email to say thanks, enjoyed the session - didn’t believe that my golf could pick up in such a short period of time. Looking forward to the next lesson."
- Alan S