During my time as a professional golfer I have delivered motivational talks at over 200 schools
(See some testimonials below). The topics on personal development include
How to Overcome the Fear of Failure
The Importance of Preparation
How to Perform Well in Exams and Interviews
The Importance of Hard Work
One story I tell is about my failure at the 1978 PGA Championships at Royal Birkdale when I came last.
After my humiliation in front of Seve Ballesteros and Nick Faldo I thought there was no way I could
ever perform in such an event again - yet years later I was able to walk confidently up the 18th at
Birkdale in front of 20,000 spectators having played well on the last day of the 1991 British Open.
John has been Surrey PGA Captain
National PGA Champion
Represented Europe in the PGA Matches against the USA
Awarded 'Shooting Star' as most Improved Player on European Tour
While the talks are generally about sport, the life lessons I learned are relevant to many situations
faced by young people today.
For more details please email John directly on
Hoskison51@hotmail.com
(As an approximate figure talks costs from £250 excluding travel expenses)
Below is an example from one of John's talks.
Testimonials
'My students, colleagues and I were moved beyond expectation by what John
had to say. His advice and inspiration on how to reach the top of any
profession, the importance of hard work and determination and not giving up
when things are not going your way were hugely valuable. John's talk was
meaningful, emotional and very powerful - I recommend him as one of the most
valuable speakers that we have welcomed to our school.' Kate Dodd - Head of Sixth Form - Badminton School
'John Hoskison delivers a powerful and moving message with passion and
personal humility. In the context of "life lessons" learned though the
experience of professional sport he addresses key issues such as the
necessity of good preparation, of "knowing the rules" and the importance of
confidence and communication skills. It was an extremely useful talk and we
have already booked him for next year.' Kate Cayley - Head of Boarding - Marlborough College
'John, thank you so much for your inspirational presentation to students
and staff today. As I hope you detected we were all entranced with your
story and the manner and style of your delivery made your messages
accessible and captivating.
I thank you on behalf of the students who have had a remarkable experience
listening to something that was both memorable and deeply inspirational. In
taking time to tell us your story you have given us a unique opportunity to
learn. I am sure it will be life changing for some - if not many.' Ian MacKinnon - Headmaster - Bristol Grammar
'John's background as a successful professional sportsman gives him the
opportunity to motivate and prepare young people for the challenges that lie
ahead, and he does this by outlining the psychological need to be positive
and dedicated' Deputy Headmaster - John Lyon School
'John's story told to over 400 sixth form pupils was delivered in an
engaging, genuine and thought provoking style. It is so relevant and
appropriate for our youngsters to listen to.' Dr A. R. John's - Head of Sixth Form - Bromsgrove School
'John spoke superbly for 40 minutes to a rapt audience. His story made a
considerable impact: I have not stopped receiving comments from students in
the days since.
As one of his key messages is that preparation is always the key to success,
it is no surprise that every detail of his performance is well honed. I
would have no reservations at all in recommending John as a speaker and look
forward to him returning to our school.' Tim Borton - Head of Sixth Form - Bishop's Stortford School
'I would like to thank you for the inspiring and informative talk that
you provided to our Sixth Form students. The opening phase of the talk
clearly underlined some of the qualities required for success in achieving
your life goals.' Tim Hoyle - Deputy Head Pastoral - Warwick School
'I just wanted to say a massive thank you for sharing your inspiring life
experiences with us. I am a competitive event rider and hearing you talk
about your dedication to your sport and the hard work it has taken for you
to succeed as a professional golfer has given me the confidence and
incentive to keep working towards competing at the next level.
Your strength, determination and modesty can only be described as incredibly
inspiring so thank you so much for your time.' Sixth Form Pupil at Badminton Girls School
'Mr Hoskison's lecture 'My Life' was enlightening and inspiring. Several
of our sixth form students have already asked me if John could return to
Colfe's again before the end of the academic year. This is praise indeed and
highlights John's ability to engage a large group of young people and hold
their attention.
Thank you so much for sharing your philosophy and story with us. I look
forward to seeing you again next academic year.' Craig Foxall - Colfe's School - Head of Sixth Form Enlightenment
'John came to talk to 60 of our Lower Sixth form students. He has a clear
and informative style of speaking and certainly has a strong message to get
across. He spoke about his career in golf and how many of the skills needed
as a professional sportsman are also applicable to the world of an A level
student: determination, taking yourself out of the comfort zone at times and
working hard to achieve your goals and aspirations.
John made his own life experiences very relevant to the students and I know
they had a profound effect on the students at my College. It was a wonderful
talk.' Kate Palmer - Enrichment Co-ordinator, d'Overbroeck's College, Oxford
