Private Lessons & Coaches in Lucas Valley Marinwood, CA

Michael grew up in Cape Town, South Africa and started playing golf from a young age. He went to university in Georgia and after a decent college career turned pro and played the mini tours in Florida, then the Australian tour and South African Sunshine tour. After a couple of years as a playing professional, he went through the PGA training in the UK and became a teaching pro at Blackmoor GC in Southern England. Michael then took a job with well renown European Tour teacher, Jamie Gough at this golf school in Cape Town. Michael worked there for 3 years before moving to Europe and spending 8 years teaching in Germany and Switzerland before moving to America. Michael also spent time caddying/managing on the European Tour in the 2005, he has done 3 TPI classes through the Titleist Performance Institute as well as many other classes, courses to grow his knowledge. Michael enjoys teaching players of all skill levels from beginners to tour players. Michael still plays a lot of golf and you can find him tinkering with his swing or playing a variety of courses in his free time. He also loves to cook and explore the beauty of Northern California.

"Just finished my first lesson with Michael - can’t recommend him strongly enough. Great coach, very patient and knowledgeable.

Raised on the shores of Oahu, Hawaii, my journey began with the rhythm of the waves at the age of 10, sparking a lifelong passion for surfing. Alongside carving waves, I immersed myself in college and high school football, basketball, and track, finding joy in the thrill of competition. As a competitor in the Hawaii Amateur Surfing Association for 5 years, I honed my skills in the ocean's embrace. Complementing my active lifestyle, I prioritize breathwork, stretching, and a healthy diet to nourish both body and soul. Transitioning into coaching, I've shared my love for sports with the next generation through coaching high school and pop warner football, as well as youth basketball. As an Oahu Professional Photographer, I've captured the beauty of surfing, sports, weddings, and family portraits, preserving cherished memories for clients. For the past decade, I've surfed the waves of San Francisco, delighting in small to medium fun perfect waves and discovering local gems based on conditions. Currently, I'm homeschooling my 8-year-old daughter, embracing the opportunity to instill a love for learning and adventure.

"Russ is a great coach!

I've been fortunate to immerse myself in the world of tennis at every level, including a professional playing career. As a former All-American college tennis player and sponsored athlete, I've enjoyed a rich spectrum of experiences. My dedication to the sport also led me to achieve a ranking as high as 13+ on the Universal Tennis Ranking and compete on a 5.5 USTA Men's tennis team. Over the years, I've had the privilege of coaching individuals of all ages and skill levels, both at tennis academies and clubs. I'm eager to share my knowledge and passion with anyone looking to elevate their game. As both a coach and player, I bring a harmonious blend of fun, strategy, and collaboration to the court, ensuring a fantastic experience for those I work with. Tennis has been an integral part of my life, and I'm genuinely excited to embark on this new chapter, helping others unlock their tennis potential. If you're in search of a dedicated tennis coach and hitting partner, please don't hesitate to reach out to explore the next steps.

"Amazing

I'm a former college All-American and circuit pro with a 35-year USPTA /RSPA certification and four decades of experience as part of Wilson's AdStaff team. I've coached a diverse range of students, from beginners as young as four to seasoned pros at 87. My passion for tennis extends beyond the court; I've also navigated the world of tech startups and hold a degree from Wharton. Beyond my professional accomplishments, I'm a proud father of two sons (Go Blue!) and currently reside in beautiful Northern California. I bring a unique blend of athletic expertise, business acumen, and personal warmth to my coaching. Whether you're just starting or looking to refine your skills, I'm committed to helping you achieve your tennis goals in a fun and supportive environment. Let's hit the court together!

Coach Lawson | Break 100 & Break 90 Specialist I help everyday golfers improve consistency and lower their scores. With over 20 years of coaching experience, I focus on helping players break scoring barriers like 100 and 90 through simple swing fundamentals, short game improvement, and smarter course strategy. I have trained players for international-level competitions, including members of Team China in the 2015 China–Asia Pacific Junior Championship. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to lower your score, my goal is to make golf improvement clear, practical, and enjoyable.