Bob Dastoli
Teaching Professional
Pontoosuc Lake Country Club

Contact: 413-499-4846

Affiliation: PGA of America Life Member since 1975

Education: St. Mary’s University (Texas); Political Science/History

Family: Wife: Marianne; Regina (6/29/76); Scott (12/6/78); Dominic (9/14/82)

Hometown: Pittsfield

Residence: Pittsfield

Career highlights: Set then-Skyline course record with 71 in 1965

Low round: 65 (GEAA)

Tip to amateurs: Timing is everything. A fast swing often results in the arms beginning the downswing rather than the legs and hips. The result is usually a loss of power and the dreaded slice

Most memorable lesson: Of all the many memorable lessons, this one was special. A distinguished elderly man scheduled a lesson with me to correct a persistent duck hook. 'If you can't rid me of this chronic embarrassment, I'm going to quit', he said to me. He shows up with Tommy, his eight-year-old grandson. The grandfather insisted on hitting a few shots to demonstrate the scope of his frustration and, as he was describing it, he proceeded to hit four ugly hooks, one after the other. Tommy commented, 'four more third base shots,' indicating the noticeable direction each shot had traveled. I then spent about five minutes explaining how pressure and incorrect hand placement has a profound influence on direction. Armed with a new grip, and coupled with less pressure, he immediately began to produce a different ball flight. 'Look grandpa: Second base; wow," he said. Not only was grandpa elated with the ball flight, but Tommy now asked if he could hit a few shots, an interest he previously did not have. That day changed their relationship. Tommy became an avid golfer and participated in my junior program for years. The grandfather lowered his score dramatically and they developed a wonderful companionship playing together a few times a week for years. A pleasure for me to recall to this day.