The U.S. Senior Women’s Open is coming up on August 1st and we are so proud to have two of our incredible V1 Coaches competing in the event. We sat down with Tina Tombs and Cheryl Anderson to get their unique perspective on coaching and playing at an elite level.
Tina Tombs is a decorated golfer and coach. Over the years, she’s achieved some incredible milestones on the “player side.” She’s a 2x First Team All American, Pac-10 Champion, ASU Athletic Hall of Fame member, LPGA Jamie Farr Classic 1990 Champion, and so much more. On the “coaching side,” the list is longer (if you can believe it). 2x LPGA National Teacher of the Year, LPGA Top 50 Best Teachers from 2017-2025, Nancy Lopez Golf Achievement Award, GOLF Magazine’s Top 100 Teachers since 2019, and more.
Q: How do you balance being a coach and practicing like a player? What does your practice look like?
A: Balance has been a defining aspect of my journey. After retiring from the LPGA tour in 2000 to focus on raising my daughters and coaching, I transitioned into a coaching career. My practice now revolves around coaching and teaching rather than personal playing. During our season from September to June, my time is dedicated to coaching, with practice sessions focusing on mental aspects of the game and honing specific skills over about four hours. I prioritize coaching and find great fulfillment in helping others improve their game.
Q: Is there a part of your game or swing fault you’ve been working on ahead of qualifying?
A: In preparation for qualifying for the US Senior Open, I’ve committed to enhancing my fitness, flexibility, strength, and mental game. This comprehensive approach has helped me address both strengths and weaknesses in my game, ensuring I’m well-prepared for the challenges ahead.
Q: What are you most excited about for the US Senior Women’s Open?
A: Qualifying for the 6th US Senior Women’s Open at Fox Chapel Golf Club is a tremendous honor. I’m looking forward to competing at such a prestigious event, surrounded by excellent competition on an outstanding course. It promises to be an exhilarating week of golf, and I can’t wait to test my skills against some of the best in the game.
Cherly Anderson has been the Director of Instruction at the prestigious Mike Bender Golf Academy since 2008. She has accumulated countless awards both during this time and prior to joining Bender. On the “golfer” side of things there are two achievements she holds in special regard–5x Metropolitan PGA Women’s Player of the Year and 4x Qualifier for the US Senior Women’s Open with a top 20 finish in 2021. As a coach, she’s been honored twice as LPGA National Teacher of the Year, Golf Digest 50 Best Instructors and GOLF Magazine’s Top 100 Teachers since 2013.
Q: How do you balance being a coach and practicing like a player? What does your practice look like?
A: Balancing coaching and personal practice is all about efficiency and dedication:
I start my day 45 minutes before my first lesson, using that time for stretching, hitting balls, and some putting. I also make sure to play golf on Sundays with my family. During the summer, I take a month off in Lake Placid, NY, focusing on my game, especially in preparation for events like the US Senior Women’s Open qualifier.
Q: Is there a part of your game or swing fault you’ve been working on ahead of qualifying?
A: Absolutely, I’ve been focusing on improving my swing mechanics, particularly keeping my trail leg straighter in the downswing. Putting has also been a major focus during my practice sessions.
Q: What are you most excited about for the US Senior Women’s Open?
A: I’m thrilled about the upcoming US Senior Women’s Open at Fox Chapel Golf Club.
I have a deep appreciation for Seth Rayner’s designs, having played courses like Yale extensively during my collegiate matches. Knowing that Fox Chapel has recently restored its layout to reflect Rayner’s original vision adds to my excitement. I’m also looking forward to competing alongside and learning from a talented field of players who inspire me.
Find more information about the 6th U.S. Senior Women’s Open at Fox Chapel Golf Club here.
