MY STORY
The first time I swung a club was for phys. ed. credit at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. I loved it! Once in corporate America, I got the opportunity to play occasionally, but soon learned that females are typically ‘held outside the circle’. Yet, golf is a key component of the business world. Business is about relationships; relationships are absolutely created and/or strengthened on the golf course. Equally important, this ageless activity provides the opportunity to forge friendships and strengthen personal relationships. Many women do not realize they are missing out.
One day, while visiting a local establishment to get fitted for clubs, I realized something needed to change. After trying various manufacturers while the expert fitter gathered stats, we landed on Pings. I had the money to buy and should have felt great, but I was the only female in a room full of men hitting into simulators; uncomfortable ‘locker room banter’ was going on behind me…I left there feeling like a I absolutely did not belong.
I went home and Googled ”Woman + Golf”, wondering where I could have had a better experience? The first link that came up?…“20 Hottest Women in Golf” from Men’s Health Magazine! All other links had pictures of men and male dominated language, even though ‘woman’ was in my search.
I recalled various scenarios where, if I did get invited to a corporate outing, I was a sub; ‘Hey Jan, John can’t make it, could you fill in?’ Or the numerous friends and associates who shared that they went for a lesson and felt intimidated, or went with their boyfriend and it was ‘a total disaster’!
I realized I needed to create a space where everyone would feel welcome, where no one would feel intimidated; thus OnPar Now was born.
If you’ve been playing for years or never picked up a club, we have the team and technology to help you improve your game or get you started on the right foot. Enjoy a round on our TrackMan Simulators, practice your short game before hitting the course, or have a lesson with one of our golf professionals. Second to education, golf is the most important tool one can have in their toolkit.
At OnPar Now we live by the edict that everyone should have the opportunity to embrace this sport in a welcoming environment. We have set out to create an inclusive space where we can build a community centered around all of the positive attributes of the game: confidence, focus, patience, camaraderie, and fun! I can’t wait to see you.
LISTEN
Hear more about Jan’s story on A Bright Idea Podcast.
Jan
Founder + CEO
Jan left her 30 yr. career in corporate America, where she focused her energies on systems, business processes and developing her team, to follow her dream and make OnPar Now a reality. A champion of others, she is excited to have this opportunity to inspire women and men of all ages to participate. Fitness, good nutrition and staying active have been an integral part of her life – golf in particular has been a passion since her first swing. Using OnPar Now as a voice, Jan hopes to get more women involved in the game and help them embrace the positive benefits that she has experienced from golf.
Jan enjoys taking class at [solidcore] or running alongside the Allegheny River. Golf and kayaking are 2 activities that speak to her soul. Jan has twin sons, both amazing young men! She and one son live in the Strip District, and loves being a part of this vibrant community!
Susan
Business Manager
Susan is all about people; empowering them is her passion. With her genuine patience in an autistic support program in a local school district, Susan endeavored to create the best possible environment to help students realize their full potential. Susan now brings her innate abilities to OnPar Now, where she focuses on customer service and operations.
Susan has two lovely daughters, both married, and is thrilled to be a Grandmother! She currently lives in Monroeville with her husband, Doug, and their adorable dog, Cooper.
Rhiannon Ray
Golf Pro + Master Club Fitter
- Master Club Fitter and Builder
- Certified, SAM PuttLab
- Experienced Golf Instructor
- Certified, TrackMan
Well versed in TrackMan technology, certified in SAM PuttLab, and a Master Club Fitter and Builder, Rhiannon represents a highly specialized and comprehensive expert in golf instruction, equipment fitting, and performance analysis.
TrackMan, renowned for its advanced radar technology that tracks the full trajectory of the golf ball and provides detailed data on numerous parameters. Rhi analyzes a golfer’s swing mechanics with precision, pinpointing areas for improvement in both distance and accuracy and guides to fine-tune the golfer’s swing to optimize performance.
Rhiannon exhibits a deep understanding of golf equipment and its customization. She can assess a golfer’s swing characteristics, physical attributes, and playing style to recommend and fit clubs that optimize performance. This includes adjusting variables such as shaft type, length, flex, lie angle, grip size, and clubhead design to ensure that each club in the golfer’s bag maximizes distance, accuracy, and feel.
SAM PuttLab certification indicates expertise in analyzing and improving a golfer’s putting stroke using sophisticated sensors and software. This certification and Rhi’s experience allows her to diagnose subtle nuances in the putting stroke, such as alignment, face angle, tempo, and stroke path. By providing data-driven feedback and personalized drills, she helps golfers enhance their putting consistency and effectiveness on the green.
Rhiannon offers a holistic approach to improving every aspect of a golfer’s game. Call today to improve upon your overall performance and enjoyment of the game of golf!
Karen Bennett
- LPGA Member
- Member of Legends Tour since 2021
- President Northeast Section LPGA Professionals
Karen possesses a rare blend of technical expertise, patience and a deep passion for the game that transcends mere instruction. She strikes the perfect balance between encouragement and constructive criticism, nurturing growth without overwhelming the learner.
Lessons are conducted using state-of-the-art TrackMan technology providing precise swing and ball flight data, as well as automatic video feedback. This, coupled with Karen’s demonstrations of technique adjustments, helps to accelerate skill development.
A truly remarkable instructor, Karen has a gift for analyzing where the student is in their golf journey and not only improves her students’ skills but also ignites a lifelong love for the sport! A dynamic and engaging golf instructor, she creates a welcoming atmosphere where every student feels valued and encouraged.
Grant Barracchini
- PGA Professional
- Director of instruction – Butler Country Club
- Graduate of PennWest PGM program
Grant is a dedicated golf instructor known for his innovative use of training aids to elevate his students’ skills to new heights. Armed with a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of biomechanics, Grant customizes each lesson with beneficial tools tailored to his students’ needs.
Lessons are conducted utilizing TrackMan technology, featuring integrated video analysis, providing visual feedback and reinforcement crucial for mastering proper stance, posture and swing mechanics. His approach combines technical expertise with motivational coaching, fostering an environment where improvement is both tangible and enjoyable. Not only well-versed in helping the avid golfer fine-tune their game, Grant has also led numerous junior and beginner adult clinics, speaking to his dedication to help everyone embrace the game.
With Grant’s guidance, his students not only refine their skills but also develop a deeper appreciation and passion for the sport of golf!
Kevin Shields
- Director of Golf Instruction at The Club at Nevillewood
- Five-time Tri-State Section PGA Player of the Year
- Winner of Pennsylvania Senior Men’s Open 2022
- Two-time Tri-State PGA Teacher of the Year
Kevin works with players of all levels, from nationally ranked Senior players, USGA champions, and high school state champions, as well as brand new golfers. The continual pursuit to improve his own game has led him to seek out cutting edge methods and proven theories to help golfers of all levels enjoy the experience golf can bring us all; hence his desire to train at OnPar Now with state-of-the-art technology.
Donnie Breneman
- PGA Member
- Certified, SAM PuttLab
- Graduate of Penn State PGM program
A highly qualified PGA Member and certified instructor in SAM PuttLab, Donnie is known for his expertise in both putting and full swing techniques. A graduate of Penn State’s PGM program, Donnie brings a wealth of technical knowledge and practical experience to his lessons. His affable demeanor and genuine passion for golf create a welcoming environment where students feel comfortable and inspired to improve.
Whether conducting detailed putter fittings to optimize equipment performance or providing comprehensive lessons on the intricacies of the full swing, using state-of-the-art TrackMan, Donnie’s approach is rooted in precision and tailored to each individual’s unique goals and abilities. His dedication to continuous learning and mastery of the game ensures that every student receives top-notch instruction that not only enhances their skills but also deepens their enjoyment and appreciation of golf.
