Springbrook Golf Course

History

I'm a graduate of the Golf Professional Training Program (GPTP) administered by the Professional Golfer's Association of America (PGA). I was elected to membership in March of 1999. My current PGA classification is A-1, Head Golf Professional. Mizuno and Titleist certify me as a custom club fitter. I am an accomplished player winning the Illinois Section Fall Classic. I have qualified for the Nationwide Tour’s Bank of America Championship, the PGA Club Professional Championship, the Illinois Open, and the Oldsmobile Scramble National Finals. I was also a member of Naperville North High School's state championship golf team, the first men's championship in North's history. I have been employed by the Naperville Park District since 1995 and has been a Naperville area resident since 1975.

Mike's Teaching Philosophy

My teaching philosophy is simple. I personalize each lesson to the needs of the individual. People come in all shapes and sizes and have varying expectations. Each individual's abilities, limitations and current playing abilities must be recognized in order for learning to occur. There is not one perfect swing. I try to enhance what the individual brings to the table.

Mike's Approach to Teaching

For beginning golfers I like to see what natural abilities one has by starting with the short game. Starting on or near the putting green allows me to see what kind of "feel" one has. "Feel" refers to the ability to control the distance the ball will travel. Putting and chipping are a great way to demonstrate "feel". After some brief exercises I am ready to structure an appropriate lesson program.

For the intermediate to advanced golfer I prefer to hear their explanation about what may be wrong or needs improvement. Through this conversation I will be able to assess their ability and expectations. Once we have agreed upon the most effective course of action, a detailed lesson program can be developed and implemented.