Private Golf Lessons & Coaches in Lucas Valley Marinwood, CA

I’ve been golfing for over 30 years and as I grew older I’ve learned to maximize what I have. I’m 5’6” and though I consider myself an athlete, I do believe a good swing can be achieved by good fundamentals and what I call positioning. By ingraining certain aspects of a swing, we can continue to improve by doing. I’m just a low-handicap golfer who want to teach average golfers good fundamentals as a takeaway, so you can start to improve on your own. I’m not a teaching professional, but I was a design instructor at an art school for over 17 years, I hope I can make improving your golf game fun.

"Very helpful, great new technique and easy going with lots of patience!! Truly appreciate that from a coach!! Thank you!!!

Fueled by a lifelong dedication to golf, I bring 30 years of experience to helping players elevate their game. I've coached children from the ages of 4-18. I coached a Nike Golf Camp for a number of years at Tilden Park Golf Course where I focused on younger golfers. I've been the head coach at a number of successful high schools throughout the area. I have also taught adults, family, and friends. I offer a unique perspective and my first and most important rule is that we're having fun. If we're not having fun we are in the wrong sport. But with patience and a lot of practice I can promise that your golf game will improve and after hitting a few solid shots you'll become addicted to the game. I'll tailor my lessons to each individual and take the time to ensure that progress is made. My passion lies in fostering a fun and supportive environment where golfers of all levels can thrive. Let's get out there!

"Sean is a very skilled coach with deep experience, and it was helpful spending a lesson with someone who has such a strong feel for the game. I’m very new to golf, and he gave me several useful drills and visual metaphors that made certain concepts click for me, especially his “paintbrush” cue for brushing the grass. You can tell a lot of this teaching comes from years of playing and collecting ways to explain the swing which made the lesson interesting and gave me a lot to practice afterwards.

**GREAT STUDENTS MAKE GREAT COACHES** For the past 20 years, I have been coaching and instructing many of the top golfers in Solano County. I firmly believe that "great players make great coaches." Here are some of my esteemed references: Aaron Beverly: Aaron has competed on the PGA, APGA, and Canadian Tours. During his time at Sac State, he broke numerous records and has won on the APGA Tour. He holds several course records, including a 59 at Rancho Murieta. Easton Hether: Class of 2026 at Cal State East Bay, Easton has already secured first-place finishes in tournaments and was named the 2023 Conference Freshman of the Year; 2025 CSEB Athlete of the Year; 2026 Career Athlete Award Anthony Del Dotto: A Class A PGA Professional and graduate of PGA/PGM New Mexico State, where he was a Jones Cup Champion. Mark Mills: Operations Manager at Jelly Belly. Mark improved from shooting over 100 to breaking 90 in just months through dedication to my 'Five Keys Method.' Although I now coach part-time, I have spent the past 20 years coaching and instructing for The City of Fairfield, Holy Spirit Middle School, and most recently, the Vacaville High Bulldogs. More than 10 of my students have gone on to play at the college level. But one of my proudest accomplishments is every junior player I have coached that went on to play in high school made their varsity squad as freshmen. Throughout these two decades, I have developed "The Five Keys" method of rapid learning. While I have specialized in instructing juniors with aspirations to play at the highest level, this method is designed for players who cannot dedicate hours each day to practice. The Five Keys Method focuses on accelerating progress without requiring extensive practice time. The Five Keys has consistently proven its effectiveness over the years, and I take great satisfaction in helping golfers achieve their personal goals, whatever they may be.

"Coach Nelson made me regret not starting golf 20 years ago. I thought I was signing up for golf lessons, but somehow I got life coaching, therapy, and a reality check all in one package. Every lesson has me thinking, “Wow, that applies to golf". Never had coach so commited to help me improved.

Fueled by a lifelong love for golf, I offer 30 years of expertise honed from my time as an NCAA athlete, PGA Associate and Asst Golf Pro at Chardonnay GC in Napa. I tailor instruction to elevate your game and foster a deeper appreciation for this incredible sport. Starting with Basics of Setup, posture, grip, swing plane and etiquette we can learn smarter practice that transfers effortlessly to the course.Short game is key. Changing perspective unlocking your potential for fun and better golf.

"Grant is an incredible golf instructor. He explains the fundamentals in a way that’s easy to understand, was patient throughout the lesson, and creates a relaxed, encouraging environment that makes learning enjoyable.

I am a highly skilled and certified professional specializing in the game of golf, and I am on the National Registry of Professional Golf Instructors. As an expert in my field, I am dedicated to helping players develop their game with a focus on comfortability, consistency, confidence, and contact. My teaching approach is tailored to each individual player's unique needs and goals, ensuring that they receive personalized attention throughout the learning process. With a passion for the sport and a commitment to excellence, I strive to bring out the best in my students and help them achieve their full potential on and off the course. Most recently I became the League Director for The Junior Tour powered by Under Armour. This is a sanctioned league nationwide for children ages 6-18.

"Marc identified my areas that were blocking me for a normal golf swing. Looking forward to learning to move away from the range to the course.

I have been playing golf for 20 years and have been teaching for 5 years. I Enjoy getting people to learn new skills, especially if it is a skill they are struggling with. My proudest golf achievement has been shooting a 71 at Poppy Hills. My favorite golf course is Torrey Pines. When I am not teaching or playing golf, I enjoy spending time with my family, hiking, and playing the drums.

"Great lesson

Unlock your golfing potential! I bring 25 years of experience, including coaching at the collegiate level (NYU), to guide you toward your personal best. Combining technical expertise with a passion for the game, I foster a supportive and engaging learning environment for all skill levels. Let's work together to refine your swing, elevate your strategy, and make golf more enjoyable.

"He fixed my sway issue. Very patient

Golfing and student of the game for 50 years now. .My philosophy is keep the swing simple and effective. Swing changes are hard so let’s work with what you have unless you are committed to making wholesale swing changes. Fundamentals are key: grip, alignment, posture and swing plane. No crazy gimmicky exaggerated moves: club on plane w a square face, and aligned to target. Let’s get you proficient and confident so you can get out play and enjoy the game.

"Worked on grip and stance with each club and got a good understanding WHY the stance was important (and different) for each club. I did not want 20 or 30 new things to try. I could not remember that many. I can easily focus on two tips for each club and make improvements based on those tips.

Hi, I'm Eric, and I grew up playing golf in the SF Bay Area over 40 years ago. I have a passion and true love for the game ever since I set foot on my first golf course at age 9. I have played in local tournaments and played golf competitively for several years. I have lots of patience, I'm laid back, and I really enjoy teaching. I work with all ages and skill levels. Reach out to me to find out if I'm a good fit for you.

"Awesome instructor! Left with video and also a clear practice routine.