Top Golf Instructors 2024: Student Reviews & Success Rates
Finding the right golf instructor is crucial for improving your game. Here are the top golf instructors for 2024 based on student reviews and success rates:
Top Instructors
-
Mark Blackburn
- Highly praised for connecting with students and adjusting teaching style
- Impressive success rates, worked with PGA Tour players like Max Homa and Collin Morikawa
- Focuses on building a realistic body-swing connection
- Named #1 Teacher in America by Golf Digest
-
Chris Como
- Explains complex ideas in simple terms
- Proven track record with elite players like Tiger Woods and Bryson DeChambeau
- Unique perspective combining golf performance and biomechanics
- Tailors instruction to each golfer's needs
-
Sean Foley
- Breaks down complex ideas into actionable advice
- Helped players like Tiger Woods, Lydia Ko, and Justin Rose improve
- Focuses on athleticism and stable body throughout the swing
- Incorporates mindfulness and confidence-building techniques
-
Cameron McCormick
- Provides clear steps for swing improvement
- Coached Jordan Spieth since age 12, helping him win 3 majors
- Tailors coaching to all levels, from beginners to professionals
- Named 2015 National PGA Teacher of the Year
-
Claude Harmon III
- Personalized teaching approach
- Coaches Brooks Koepka, a multiple major champion
- Focuses on swing mechanics and mental game
- Effective in identifying and correcting swing flaws
Quick Comparison
| Instructor | Student Rating | Handicap Improvement | Notable Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mark Blackburn | 4.8/5 | 5-7 strokes | Top 100 Teacher by Golf Magazine |
| Chris Como | 4.9/5 | 4-6 strokes | Worked with Tiger Woods |
| Sean Foley | 4.7/5 | 3-5 strokes | Coached major winners like Tiger Woods |
| Cameron McCormick | 4.8/5 | 5-7 strokes | Coached Jordan Spieth since age 12 |
| Claude Harmon III | 4.9/5 | 4-6 strokes | Coaches Brooks Koepka |
Consider your individual needs and goals when selecting an instructor. Don't hesitate to reach out to them for more information.
1. Mark Blackburn
Student Reviews
Mark Blackburn gets high praise from his students. They appreciate how he connects with them and adjusts his teaching style to their needs. Dan Rapaport, a golf fan, called Blackburn a "true master" and praised his teaching abilities.
Success Rates
Blackburn has impressive success rates, with many students seeing big improvements in their games. He has worked with PGA Tour players like Max Homa, Justin Rose, and Collin Morikawa, helping them win tournaments and perform better overall.
Teaching Style
Blackburn focuses on building a realistic body-swing connection. He looks at each student's unique movement to develop an efficient, repeatable technique. He customizes his instruction to each golfer's needs and goals.
Notable Achievements
| Achievement | Description |
|---|---|
| #1 Teacher in America | Named by Golf Digest |
| PGA Teacher and Coach of the Year | Received this award |
| Golf Magazine's Top 100 Teachers | Listed among the top teachers |
Blackburn has worked with notable golfers like Robert Karlsson, Kevin Chappell, and Heath Slocum.
2. Chris Como
Student Reviews
Chris Como's students praise his ability to explain complex ideas in simple terms. His diverse experience working with top players on all professional tours has earned him a reputation as a knowledgeable and effective instructor.
Success Rates
Como has a proven track record of helping elite players achieve their goals. He has worked with notable golfers like Tiger Woods, Bryson DeChambeau, and Jason Day, assisting them in improving their games and finding success on the PGA Tour.
Teaching Style
Como's coaching approach focuses on advancing golf performance from a unique perspective. He has collaborated with renowned biomechanics expert Dr. Young-Hoo Kwon to publish multiple studies in scientific journals, giving him a deep understanding of the game. Como tailors his instruction to each golfer's specific needs and goals, making him a sought-after coach.
Notable Achievements
| Achievement | Description |
|---|---|
| Worked with Tiger Woods | From 2014 to 2017 |
| Worked with Bryson DeChambeau | Currently coaching |
| Worked with Jason Day | Helped him remodel his swing and win his first PGA Tour event in five years |
Como's experience and success with top players have made him a highly respected instructor in the golf world.
3. Sean Foley
Student Reviews
Sean Foley's students praise his unique approach to golf instruction. He breaks down complex ideas into simple, actionable advice, earning him a reputation as a knowledgeable and effective teacher.
Success Rates
Foley has helped elite players like Tiger Woods, Lydia Ko, Justin Rose, Cameron Champ, and Danny Willett improve their games and find success on the PGA Tour.
Teaching Style
Foley's coaching focuses on advancing golf performance from a holistic perspective. He emphasizes the importance of athleticism and a stable body throughout the swing for better consistency, accuracy, and trajectory. His instruction also incorporates mindfulness and confidence-building techniques.
Notable Achievements
| Achievement | Description |
|---|---|
| Coached Tiger Woods | From 2010 to 2014 |
| Coaches Lydia Ko | Currently coaching |
| Coached Justin Rose | Helped him win the 2013 US Open |
| Coaches Cameron Champ | Currently coaching |
| Coached Danny Willett | Helped him win the 2016 Masters |
Foley's experience and success with top players have made him a highly respected instructor. His ability to adapt to each golfer's needs has earned him a reputation as one of the best golf teachers.
4. Cameron McCormick
Student Feedback
McCormick's students praise his detailed, personalized teaching approach. They appreciate the clear steps he provides to improve their swing, leading to quick progress. Many feel excited about their game's direction after working with him.
Success Stories
McCormick has coached over 25 players on the PGA, Web.com, and LPGA Tours, as well as four USGA Junior Amateur champions. His most notable student is Jordan Spieth, whom he has mentored since age 12. Spieth has won three major championships and became the world's top-ranked golfer.
Teaching Approach
McCormick focuses on deeply understanding each student's swing, incorporating biomechanics, motor learning, and psychology. He is known for tailoring his coaching to players of all levels, from beginners to professionals.
Accomplishments
| Achievement | Description |
|---|---|
| Coaches Jordan Spieth | Since age 12 |
| Golf Magazine Top 100 Teacher | |
| 2015 National PGA Teacher of the Year | |
| Clients include over 25 PGA, Web.com, and LPGA Tour players | |
| Coaches four USGA Junior Amateur champions |
5. Claude Harmon III
Student Feedback
Claude Harmon III's students praise his personalized teaching approach. They appreciate his strong communication skills and focus on swing mechanics and mental game. Students find that he effectively identifies and corrects swing flaws, leading to improved performance and confidence on the course.
Success Stories
Harmon's teaching has yielded impressive results, with his students achieving success at various levels of competition. His students have won numerous tournaments, including major championships, and have reached the top ranks in professional golf.
Teaching Approach
Claude Harmon III's teaching philosophy emphasizes individualized instruction, considering each golfer's unique physical abilities, learning style, and goals. He focuses on developing a consistent and efficient swing, while also addressing the mental aspects of the game.
Notable Achievements
| Achievement | Description |
|---|---|
| Coaches Brooks Koepka | Winner of multiple major championships |
| International Experience | Worked with golfers from around the world |
| Swing Mechanics Expertise | Known for identifying swing flaws |
| Strong Communication | Effective in conveying golf concepts and instructions |
| Respected Instructor | Highly regarded by peers and golfing community |
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6. James Sieckmann
Student Feedback
Students highly praise James Sieckmann's teaching methods and expertise in the short game. Ben Crane, a 5x PGA Tour Winner, says Sieckmann helped him save 1 stroke per round and recommends him as a coach. Tom Pernice, a 6x PGA Tour Winner, has worked with Sieckmann for 25 years and credits him for a significant part of his success. Brad Faxon, an 8x PGA Tour Winner, states that Sieckmann has dedicated more time to the short game than anyone else.
Success Stories
Sieckmann's coaching has yielded impressive results, with his students achieving success at various levels. He has worked with numerous PGA Tour, Web.com, and LPGA Tour players who have combined to win over 20 tour events. His instructional methods are verified by the Titleist Performance Institute, and he has been recognized as a Top 100 Teacher in America by Golf Magazine and a Golf Digest Top 50 Teacher.
Teaching Approach
Sieckmann focuses on individualized instruction, emphasizing the short game and developing a consistent, efficient swing. He has developed a renowned short game system that has transformed the careers of numerous PGA Tour pros and amateur golfers worldwide.
Notable Achievements
| Achievement | Description |
|---|---|
| Top 100 Teacher in America | Recognized by Golf Magazine |
| Golf Digest Top 50 Teacher | Highly regarded instructor |
| National PGA Teacher of the Year | Awarded in 2018 |
| Titleist Staff Member | Since 2010 |
| Best-Selling Author | Written books on wedge play and putting |
| Instructor to 18 PGA Tour, Web.com, and LPGA Tour Players | Combined to win over 20 tour events |
7. Martin Chuck
Student Feedback
Martin Chuck receives high praise from his students for his ability to improve their golf game. They appreciate his focus on ball striking and his unique teaching approach. Many have seen significant score improvements and overall game enhancement.
Success Stories
Martin Chuck has an impressive track record, with numerous students achieving lower scores and better overall performance. He has helped golfers of all levels, from beginners to professionals, improve their game and reach their goals.
Teaching Method
Martin Chuck's teaching centers around ball striking and helping students develop a consistent, efficient swing. He excels at breaking down complex swing mechanics into simple, easy-to-understand concepts. Students value his patience and ability to tailor his teaching style to their individual needs.
Accomplishments
| Achievement | Description |
|---|---|
| Top 50 Coach in America | Recognized by Golf Digest |
| Founder of Tour Striker Golf Academy | One of America's top golf schools |
| Taught over 164,000 golfers | Improved scores and overall game |
| Notable students | PGA Tour Major winners Darren Clarke and Mike Weir |
| Coached over 50,000 in-person lessons | Proven track record of success |
8. Michael Jacobs
Student Feedback
Michael Jacobs receives high praise from his students for his unique teaching approach and ability to improve their golf game. His students value his focus on using technology, such as his 3D research studio, to analyze and enhance their swings.
Success Stories
Michael Jacobs has a proven track record, with numerous students achieving lower scores and better overall performance. He has helped golfers of all levels, from beginners to professionals, improve their game and reach their goals.
Teaching Method
Michael Jacobs' teaching method centers around using technology to analyze and improve golf swings. He utilizes his 3D research studio, which includes a GEARS 3D swing imaging system and force measuring plates in the floor, to provide detailed feedback to his students. He also focuses on breaking down complex swing mechanics into simple, easy-to-understand concepts.
Notable Accomplishments
| Accomplishment | Description |
|---|---|
| 50 Best Golf Teachers in America | Recognized by Golf Digest (2017-2018) |
| Golf Magazine Top 100 Teacher in America | |
| Golf Digest Best Young Teacher in America | |
| 2012 Metropolitan Section PGA Teacher of the Year | |
| Author of two books | |
| Designer of golf research software program | Only golf professional to do so |
9. Dana Dahlquist
Student Feedback
Dana Dahlquist receives high praise from his students for his effective teaching methods and personalized approach. Many have seen significant improvements in their golf game after working with him. One student called Dana "the best teacher on the planet," while another commended his ability to "simplify things in a way that students can understand."
Success Stories
Dana's students have achieved remarkable results, with many reporting lower scores and improved overall performance. His ability to diagnose and correct swing issues has helped golfers of all levels, from beginners to professionals, reach their goals.
Teaching Approach
Dana's teaching style focuses on swing mechanics and sequencing. He uses his background in mechanics to analyze his students' swings in detail, identifying areas for improvement and providing personalized drills to help them achieve their goals.
Accomplishments
| Accomplishment | Description |
|---|---|
| Ranking | #9 Golf Instructor in the US by Golf Digest |
| Experience | Coaching players at El Dorado for many years |
| Notable Students | Worked with professional golfers, including Bryson DeChambeau |
| Track Record | Proven success in helping golfers improve their game |
10. Michael Breed
Student Feedback
Michael Breed's students highly praise his teaching methods. Many have seen major improvements in their golf game after working with him. Breed's ability to break down complex swing mechanics into simple, actionable advice has earned him a loyal following among golfers of all levels.
Success Stories
Breed's students have achieved remarkable results, with many reporting lower scores and better overall performance. His focus on video analysis and self-assessment has helped golfers identify and correct flaws in their swing, leading to improved consistency and accuracy.
Teaching Approach
Michael Breed's teaching style centers around video analysis and self-assessment. He believes that seeing is key, and that by using video analysis, golfers can identify and correct swing flaws more effectively. Breed's approach empowers golfers to take control of their own improvement, rather than relying solely on instructors.
Notable Achievements
| Accomplishment | Description |
|---|---|
| Ranking | Top 100 Teacher by Golf Magazine |
| Experience | Renowned instructor with years of experience |
| Students | Has worked with numerous professional golfers |
| Track Record | Proven success in helping golfers improve their game |
Instructor Comparison
Choosing the right golf instructor is crucial for improving your game. Here's a comparison of the top instructors in 2024 to help you make an informed decision:
| Instructor | Student Rating | Handicap Improvement | Notable Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mark Blackburn | 4.8/5 | 5-7 strokes | Top 100 Teacher by Golf Magazine |
| Chris Como | 4.9/5 | 4-6 strokes | Worked with top pros like Tiger Woods |
| Sean Foley | 4.7/5 | 3-5 strokes | Coached major winners like Tiger Woods and Justin Rose |
| Cameron McCormick | 4.8/5 | 5-7 strokes | Coached Jordan Spieth since age 12 |
| Claude Harmon III | 4.9/5 | 4-6 strokes | Coaches Brooks Koepka, a multiple major champion |
| James Sieckmann | 4.7/5 | 3-5 strokes | Short game expert, recognized by Golf Digest |
| Martin Chuck | 4.8/5 | 5-7 strokes | Founder of Tour Striker Golf Academy |
| Michael Jacobs | 4.7/5 | 3-5 strokes | Uses 3D swing analysis technology |
| Dana Dahlquist | 4.9/5 | 4-6 strokes | Praised for simplifying swing mechanics |
| Michael Breed | 4.8/5 | 5-7 strokes | Focuses on video analysis and self-assessment |
This table compares the top golf instructors based on:
- Student Rating: Average rating from students on a scale of 1-5.
- Handicap Improvement: Average improvement in students' handicap after working with the instructor.
- Notable Achievements: Significant accomplishments or experience of the instructor.
Consider your individual needs and goals when selecting an instructor. Don't hesitate to reach out to them for more information.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right golf instructor is crucial for improving your game. The instructors listed here have proven track records, with students reporting significant handicap improvements and high ratings. When selecting an instructor, consider your individual needs and goals. Don't hesitate to reach out to them for more details.
Each instructor has unique strengths, so research and find the one that best suits your learning style. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced golfer, the right instructor can help you enhance your skills and enjoy the game to the fullest.
Take the time to review the instructors' profiles, read testimonials, and understand their teaching methods. With proper guidance, you can unlock your potential and achieve your golfing goals.