Today we’d like to introduce you to Joe McNeil.
Hi Joe, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My journey to building Short Game has been fueled by vision, faith, and a genuine love for both golf and people. From the very beginning, I believed that great businesses start with a clear purpose. For me, that purpose was simple: create a place where golf, technology, and community could come together in a way that truly impacts lives.
Before Short Game ever existed, I imagined something more than a driving range. I saw a space where players of all ages could train like professionals, families could connect, and companies could gather in an atmosphere that inspires excellence. That vision grew stronger through years of experience, leadership, and the kind of challenges that test your resolve and refine your purpose.
Today, Short Game stands as the realization of that dream—a business built on integrity, excellence, and hospitality. But more than that, it’s a reflection of the people who make it special: our team, our members, and our community.
Every day, I’m reminded that true leadership isn’t about titles or achievements; it’s about serving others and finding purpose in the process. The road here hasn’t been easy, but every obstacle has been a lesson, and every lesson has been worth it.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Definitely not a smooth road. Like most meaningful ventures, Short Game was built through a lot of faith, persistence, and lessons learned the hard way. Starting something from the ground up always comes with challenges such as financial pressure, construction delays, leadership changes, and plenty of moments that test your resolve. There were seasons where it felt like every step forward came with two steps back.
But those struggles became the foundation of who we are. They taught me patience, humility, and how to lead through uncertainty. They forced me to grow not just as a business owner, but as a person. Looking back, I wouldn’t trade those hard seasons for anything, because they shaped the culture of Short Game, one that values integrity, resilience, and never giving up on the vision, no matter how tough the road gets.
We’ve been impressed with Short Game, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Short Game is the most technologically advanced golf academy and entertainment facility in South Texas. With 35 covered bays powered by TrackMan Range technology, three indoor simulators, and a championship-style short game complex, we offer a training experience unlike anything else in the region.
We combine world-class technology, expert coaching, and a welcoming atmosphere to help players of all levels, from beginners to collegiate and professional athletes, reach their potential. Our programs include U.S. Kids Golf player pathway classes and advanced performance training.
We’re proud to have athletes now competing for top programs like the University of Georgia and others on professional tours. What makes us different is our culture of excellence, hospitality, and community. At Short Game, we don’t just develop golfers, we develop people.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
Building Short Game was a major risk. We took an idea that didn’t exist locally and put everything into making it real. There were times when it felt like too much, but I’ve learned that real growth always involves risk.
I see risk as part of leadership. It’s not about recklessness, it’s about conviction and faith. You prepare, you plan, and then you move forward even when the outcome isn’t guaranteed. Every meaningful step we’ve taken has required courage, and that’s what turns vision into reality.
Pricing:
- $25 per hour for 1 person (Indoor or Outdoor)
- $50 per hour includes up to 6 people (Indoor or Outdoor)
- Buy One Hour Get One Hour Free Mondays and Tuesdays
- Half Price Wednesdays for Military, First Responders and Teachers
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.shortgameusa.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shortgameusa
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shortgameusa/
