Operation 36 Beginner Program

_{Watch Rory McIlroy x Operation 36 videos.}

In 2025, the Academy started offering a new kind of golf instruction at East Potomac Golf Links: Operation 36.

Operation 36 is the most effective program to teach beginners to learn to play golf. It is a clear blueprint to go from complete novice to par golfer. The lessons are based around playing on the course right away and moving up in levels. Lastly, the technology that they provide in the app is cutting-edge! You can track all of your progress in the program through the Op36 Mobile app.

In fact, PGA Tour winner Will McGirt selected Operation 36 as the program for his children. He said, “Operation 36 is just a way better-structured program. The progression through the yardages and being play-based, everything is focused around playing golf.”

How It Works

Your Goal: Shoot 36 (Par) or better in all 6 Levels

Play 9 holes from Level 1: You will start by playing nine holes from Level 1, where the course is 225 yards long, meaning 25 yards per hole. Every hole is a Par 4, which is your target amount of strokes to hole the ball. Do this for 9 holes to shoot 36!

Shoot 36 or Better to Level Up: Your goal is to shoot 36 or better for nine holes. When you achieve this, you level up and the course gets progressively longer. This helps you gradually develop your skills without feeling overwhelmed.

Curriculum & Coaches Guide You: If you get stuck in a Level, that’s okay! There are 12 standard video skills in each Level to guide you. Join a program at one of our 800 partner locations to learn from expert Op 36 Coaches. Your coach will teach each of these 12 skills live in your weekly group classes.

Train & Track Your Progress: The Op 36 app gives you all the tools to be successful when you are not with your coach. Follow the training games to know how to practice like a pro to accelerate your skills to shooting 36.