Today we’d like to introduce you to Sukjoon “SJ” Yoon.
Hi Sukjoon “SJ”, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My journey into the golf industry is a blend of strong academic backing and hands-on business experience. I studied Professional Golf Management (PGM) and Business during my undergraduate years, which laid a solid foundation for my passion for the game and the industry. In 2011, I moved to the U.S. to pursue further studies, earning my Master’s degree in Sport Tourism and Management from Clemson University in 2013, followed by a Ph.D. in the same field from Texas A&M University in 2018.
After finishing my doctorate, I transitioned into the corporate world, joining a mobile gaming company in 2019 where I worked as a Business Intelligence Analyst in the Finance department for six years. Throughout my time in graduate school and my corporate career, I continuously taught golf on the side.
As my passion for coaching grew, I realized I needed a dedicated, comfortable space of my own to work with students. Around four years ago, while laying the groundwork for a new business, I recognized a strong market need: given the heat and unpredictable weather in Texas, premium indoor golf academies were not just a convenience, but the future of effective training.
That vision led to the opening of DR. GOLF STUDIO, which I have now been operating for the past three years. Bringing together deep academic background, data-driven analytical skills, and a genuine passion for instruction, the studio has become a dedicated hub for golfers looking to elevate their game.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Building this business from the ground up was definitely not a smooth road. Four or five years ago, indoor golf studios and simulators were still a relatively new concept in the area. Finding a general contractor who truly understood the specialized design, ceiling heights, and technical specifications required for a premium indoor golf facility was a major challenge.
The build-out process itself was complex and demanding, and navigating the City of Austin’s strict inspection and permitting procedures added another layer of difficulty. Ultimately, these construction and permitting delays pushed our grand opening back by three to four months.
Once we opened, I quickly realized that physical construction was only the first hurdle. Managing operations—from delivering exceptional customer service to leading and retaining a great staff—presented a completely new learning curve. Running a business has taught me a vital lesson: you can never take your eye off the ball. The moment you become complacent, momentum shifts immediately. Navigating those growing pains made us far more resilient and committed to excellence.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
What sets my work apart is the unique blend of deep academic grounding, corporate data analytics, and over 17 years of hands-on golf instruction. Having coached more than 800 students since 2009, I specialize in combining data-driven swing analysis with a clear, tailored coaching approach that helps golfers of all skill levels reach their potential.
My background—holding a Bachelor’s in Professional Golf Management (PGM) and Business, a Master’s from Clemson University, and a Ph.D. in Sport Tourism and Management from Texas A&M University—gives me a holistic perspective on both the game and the business. Furthermore, working for six years as a Business Intelligence Analyst in the finance department of a mobile gaming company honed my analytical mindset. This diverse journey allows me to look at swing metrics, player development, and studio operations through a sharp, data-backed lens.
What I am most proud of is how every single phase of my career—from academic research to corporate analytics—now informs how I run DR. GOLF STUDIO and coach my clients. Due to family reasons two years ago, I transitioned to focusing fully on my golf business. Building on that foundation, I recently launched a new golf venture called “ALLGOLF,” dedicated to bridging the U.S. and Korean golf markets through premium product distribution, brand partnerships, and community-driven golf events. It’s immensely fulfilling to bring all these life experiences together into a unified vision.
How do you think about happiness?
What truly brings me the greatest happiness is witnessing the moment of transformation in my students, regardless of their skill level.
Golf is a uniquely demanding game—both mechanically and mentally—where a single breakthrough often requires countless hours of patience, trust, and deliberate practice. Whether it is a complete beginner making pure contact for the very first time, a weekend golfer finally breaking 80, or an aspiring competitive junior finding absolute consistency under pressure, seeing the “lightbulb go off” never gets old.
For me, coaching is far more than just fixing mechanics on a screen. It is about guiding someone through their frustrations and helping them discover what they are truly capable of. When a golfer’s face lights up as they realize their swing has finally clicked, or when they text me excitedly about shooting a personal best, that shared sense of achievement is what drives me every day. Knowing that I played a meaningful part in their growth and renewed love for the game is the most rewarding feeling in the world.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.drgolfstudio.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drgolfstudio/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drgolfstudio
