With the arrival of spring, the golf season is finally on the horizon, bringing new opportunities to sharpen skills and enjoy the game once again. Preparing for the season properly is key to improving performance and avoiding injuries. Whether you’re looking to refine your swing, improve your short game, or simply shake off the winter rust, Bay Harbor Yacht Club’s state-of-the-art golf simulator offers the perfect way to train before heading to the course.
While he’s best known as BHYC’s Employee Relations Manager, Paulo also happens to be a PGA Golf Professional and one of the many hats he wears is helping members sharpen their golf skills. With years of experience teaching the game, he’s here to provide lessons, coaching, and expert tips to help golfers train effectively and avoid injuries.
Getting Ready for the Season
The best way to get back into the game after winter is to start small. “Before you even pick up a club, get your body moving,” Paulo advises. “Do some light stretching, wrist rotations, or even a few sit-ups and push-ups to engage your core. Flexibility and strength are key to a smooth, injury-free swing.”
One of the biggest mistakes golfers make early in the season is skipping warm-ups and jumping straight into using their driver. “Everyone wants to crush long drives right away, but that’s the quickest way to strain muscles or throw off your rhythm,” Paulo warns. “Start with shorter shots, work on precision, then gradually move up to longer clubs. Patience leads to consistency.”
Maximizing the Golf Simulator Experience
At BHYC, members have access to one of the best golf simulators available on the market, by aboutGOLF; a tool that can significantly enhance their game with the opportunity to play over 70 virtual courses around the world, from our own Bay Harbor Golf Club to St. Andrews. “The simulator is a game-changer,” Paulo explains. “It doesn’t just let you hit balls, it gives you real-time data on your swing, club impact, and ball flight. You can practice on a virtual driving range or challenge yourself with a full 18-hole course, choosing from options across the U.S. and beyond.”
Lessons using the simulator allow golfers to fine-tune their technique with instant feedback. “I walk members through all the features, helping them analyze their swing and improve accuracy,” Paulo says. “And the best part? Once you learn how to use it, you can practice anytime on your own. If you ever need a refresher, I’m always happy to help!”
Training and Lessons at BHYC
The short game is a crucial area of focus at the beginning of the season. “If you want to lower your scores, focus on the short game,” Paulo emphasizes. “Putting, chipping, and wedge shots make up the majority of strokes in a round. If you dial in those skills early, the rest of your game will fall into place.”
A relaxed approach is essential when returning to the game. “Tension is the enemy of a smooth swing,” Paulo advises. “Keep your grip light, take a deep breath, and let the club do the work. If you force it, you’ll lose accuracy and risk injury.”
For those looking to refine their skills, private and group lessons are available. Individual lessons are $110 an hour per person, while the golf simulator can be rented without a lesson for $20 per hour for up to four players. “Lessons aren’t just about fixing what’s wrong. They’re about building confidence,” Paulo says. “Whether you’re tuning up for the season or starting fresh, I tailor each lesson to your goals so you can improve and enjoy the game more.”
About Paulo
Paulo has been a valued part of the Bay Harbor Yacht Club team for 3.5 years, bringing with him a wealth of experience. Born in São Paulo, Brazil, he has spent most of his life in the golf industry, serving as President of the Brazilian PGA and working at private clubs, public courses, and golf resorts worldwide. He has represented Brazil in tournaments across the globe and has been a member of the PGA of America for over 25 years.
“Golf has always been a part of my life,” Paulo shares. “My family played, my uncle was a tour player, and I learned a lot from him. Over the years, I’ve traveled the world representing Brazil and working with golfers at every skill level. Teaching is my passion—I want every golfer to enjoy and learn the game in a safe, fun environment.”
Ready to Get Started?
The golf season is just around the corner, and there’s no better time to prepare. Whether booking a lesson with Paulo or spending time on the golf simulator, BHYC has everything needed to sharpen skills before heading to the course.
Bay Harbor Golf Club Membership Opportunities
For avid golfers, golf memberships are available at Bay Harbor Golf Club, owned and operated by BOYNE.
To schedule a lesson or learn more about our golf offerings, give us a call today at 231-439-2100!
