

Expert golf instruction to elevate your game.
If you're looking to shave strokes off your game or finally find a swing that feels natural, scheduling a lesson with Fred Hancock is a smart move. As a Class A PGA Professional with over 40 years of experience, he brings a level of expertise to the tee that is rare to find.
Here are the top ten reasons to book a session with him:
With more than 40 years in the industry and over 15,000 lessons under his belt, Fred has seen every swing flaw imaginable. He doesn't just guess; he knows exactly how to diagnose and correct your specific issues.
Fred’s core teaching philosophy—inspired by legends like John Jacobs and Manuel de la Torre—focuses on the idea that the golf motion is a continuous swinging motion. He helps you move away from "hitting" at the ball, which often breaks down mechanics, and toward an efficient, fluid swing.
He knows what it takes to win at the highest levels. Fred was the 1976 Wisconsin State High School Individual Champion and, more recently, coached the Eau Claire Memorial Old Abes to a WIAA Division 1 State Championship in 2023.
Whether you are a beginner picking up a club for the first time or a seasoned low-handicapper, Fred adapts his style to fit you. He is particularly well-regarded for his patience with juniors and beginners.
You don't have to wait for the Wisconsin snow to melt. While the local courses are closed, Fred teaches at Valley Sports Academy using high-tech simulators, ensuring your game stays sharp even in the off-season.
As the Head Golf Professional at Lake Wissota Golf and Events, Fred is a central figure in the local golf community. His leadership at the club ensures he is always up-to-date with the best practices in the industry.
Fred is known for breaking down complex physics into simple, actionable fundamentals. His students often rave about how he provides "easy to follow instructions" that they can actually practice on their own.
Through his business, Swing’s the Thing Golf, Fred offers a dedicated brand of instruction that focuses entirely on the student's improvement and enjoyment of the game.
Testimonials frequently highlight his patience and passion. Students often describe his lessons as "game-changers," noting that he makes the learning process enjoyable rather than frustrating.
Fred is a "lifelong student of the game." His deep respect for golf history combined with modern teaching tools means you get a well-rounded education that covers everything from swing mechanics to the mental side of the sport.
Ready to get started?
You can usually find Fred at Lake Wissota Golf or Valley Sports Academy. Given his reputation in the Chippewa Valley, his schedule fills up fast—especially as the season approaches!
"Fred's lessons have been a game changer for me!"
"Fred is phenomenal. I came to him knowing nothing about golf. He has been patient and oh so instructive. He is truly a professional and I very much enjoy my lessons". ~ Gail K.
"Great instructor!! Fred is a fantastic instructor, he is extremely patient and has an obvious passion to help others enjoy the game of golf. After just a couple of lessons Fred has really helped me work towards improving my game by breaking down my swing and giving me easy to follow instructions for what to work on in between lessons. I'm looking forward to taking more lessons. I would highly recommend taking lessons with Fred to anyone".
~ Bill Z.
Schedule a session with our convenient "Online Scheduling App"
At Swings the Thing Golf , we believe that every golfer has unique potential waiting to be unlocked. With over three decades of experience in golf instruction, Fred Hancock focuses on personalized training tailored to your specific needs. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced player, our sessions are designed to enhance your skills and boost your confidence on the course. Our philosophy emphasizes the importance of a natural, flowing swing rather than a forced hit, allowing you to maximize your performance while enjoying the game. Join us today and take the first step towards becoming the golfer you've always wanted to be.

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