Our Story

A vintage instructional diagram showing various stages and techniques of a golf swing, including different approaches, addresses, and finishes for different types of shots.
Four people with golf carts playing golf on a course along the coast, with sandy dunes and the ocean in the background, under a cloudy sky.

Golf was born on the links — where movement, feel, and adaptability mattered as much as technique. It was a full-body expression, shaped by environment, and athletic instinct. It was a game that required more than just a swing.

Links Athletic exists as a place to reconnect golfers to that origin — and evolve it. 

We are the link between swing and body, between training and scoring, between data and feel. Our method is built on purposeful, transferable performance. Strength, speed, and agility are trained to support the swing — not override it.

There is no standard body. No single swing. No shortcut to mastery. Our approach is authentic and tailored to each player's goals. 

“Links” represents connection — to the roots of golf and the mechanics that shape it. 

“Athletic” represents the modern missing piece  — the element that is often neglected that allows natural ability to perform.

This is not fitness for golfers. It is golf, trained. A place where tradition meets function. Where individual performance strengthens collective energy. 

Born on the links. Built for tomorrow.

Our Principles

We believe golfers improve most when training, practice, and recovery are intentional, enjoyable, and shared.

Performance

Performance at Links Athletic is fueled by a smarter way to train. You’ll practice with purpose, get clearer feedback, and build a game you can rely on.

Train what transfers.

Longevity

Improvement shouldn’t come at the cost of your body. We train strength and mobility and help you recover faster, so you can swing freer, feel better, and play longer.

Move better, play longer.

Community

Community is the difference between a place you visit and a place you belong. Links Athletic is the home base for golfers with a shared pursuit: to better themselves on and off the course.

Great golf, better people.

The Team

  • Portrait of a young man with dark, wavy hair wearing a dark green zip-up shirt against a plain beige background.

    Ryan Kearns

    Founder

    Before founding Links Athletic, Ryan spent the early part of his career in finance and technology. With a lifelong passion for fitness and health, he advanced his knowledge of golf-specific training through the Titleist Performance Institute.

    Ryan has always admired how small businesses can shape the neighborhoods they sit in. Links is his version of that — a place built for the community he grew up in that serves to enhance each members' day every time they walk in.

  • Close-up of a smiling young man with fair skin and brown hair, wearing a dark green sweater and a white shirt, standing against a plain light beige background.

    Connor Kearns

    Founder

    Born and raised in Michigan, Connor grew up playing high school golf at Brother Rice and later competed for a year at Albion College, deepening his connection to the game and golf community.

    At Links Athletic, he is committed to creating a welcoming and fun environment where each member is supported, confident, and right at home.


  • Close-up of a smiling man with dark hair, wearing a dark green zip-up jacket, against a plain light background.

    Troy Denton

    Director of Instruction

    A Dallas native and UNLV golf team alum, Troy has spent the last decade coaching players on the PGA, Korn Ferry and LIV golf tours. His philosophy is approachable and tailored to each person, making improvement feel natural instead of overwhelming.

    Whether he's working with a junior just starting out or a seasoned competitive player, Troy emphasizes fundamentals and clear communication, which helps each golfer understand their own tendencies and deliver real on-course results.

  • Evan Woolford PT, DPT, ATC

    Head of PT & Fitness

    Evan completed his Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of Michigan-Flint in 2013. Prior to that he played on the Albion College golf team and graduated with a major in Athletic Training. He is an avid player and member at Detroit Golf Club.

    Evan is certified by the Titleist Performance Institute and has extensive experience helping golfers of all levels stay fit and physically healthy.