Swing

OWNER | DEAN OF INSTRUCTION

Location: Highland Park

With a teaching career that spans 20+ years, Chris Oehlerking serves as the Academy’s Dean of Instruction and is recognized as one of the leading coaches in the Midwest. In 2025, Chris was named the Illinois PGA Teacher of the Year and honored by Golf Digest as one of the publication’s “Best Teachers in State.” He was also selected by Golf Magazine to their “Teachers to Watch” list for 2024–2025.

Chris’s teaching philosophy was shaped under the tutelage of legendary instructors Hank Haney, Stan Utley, and Michael Hebron blending technical precision with a deep understanding of learning and performance. He works with players of all abilities — from professionals and collegiate athletes to competitive juniors, elite amateurs, and dedicated recreational golfers — helping each student develop the clarity and structure needed to unlock their potential. Known for his ability to design personalized training plans, Chris focuses on creating deeper learning and retention for lasting improvement.

A proud native of Canada, Chris became a PGA Professional in 2005. His work and insights have been featured across multiple media platforms. Beyond his teaching, Chris is deeply involved in growing the game, serving on the Boards of Directors for the Illinois PGA Foundation and the Illinois Junior Golf Association (IJGA), as well as The First Tee of Greater Chicago’s Young Ambassadors Council.

DIRECTOR OF INSTRUCTION | FITNESS EXPERT

Location: Highland Park

Born and raised in Dallas, Jantzen attended Sam Houston State University and completed its PGA Golf Management Program, which led to an opportunity with The Golf Practice.

Jantzen specializes in physical training and helps players understand the fundamentals of human movement specific to them that lead to consistent performance. Jantzen believes that when the body is working more efficiently that players golf swings will work more efficiently.

I believe that the more we move in the gym, in our practice and on the course the more we learn about ourselves and what we are capable of. It’s my passion to help students unlock golf that they never knew was possible!

DIRECTOR OF INSTRUCTION

Location: Lisle

The best way learning occurs is through self-discovery and experience rather than through processing information. There is plenty of information out there, but it isn’t helpful if you can’t put it into play in your unique swing. The brain works best in big ideas and concepts, and people’s tendency to grasp onto the smallest details often hurts their swing more than it helps.

In his coaching Andy helps the student become more aware of the parts of the swing that are causing them the most problems. He then helps them feel and experience a better, more reliable move, and works to bridge the gap between the two. Andy seeks to empower his students so that over time they can grow in the mastery of their swing, and can learn how to self-coach.

Andy’s hope for his students is that in addition to becoming better golfers, they will become better problem solvers, more resilient, learn to trust themselves, and develop a deep appreciation for golf that goes beyond what score they shoot. Andy’s main golf influences are Tim Gallwey, George Gankas, and Michael Murphy.

SENIOR COACH

Location: Highland Park

SENIOR COACH

Location: Highland Park

Peter grew up in Evanston and played most of his golf at Canal Shores Golf Course. He was on the Loyola Academy squad all four years and continued his career at Loras College in Iowa, where he was a team captain as an upperclassmen.

He served as the program’s assistant coach and head of player development for a year after graduation and now holds a leading role in all of TGP’s junior programs. The impact golf has had on Peter’s life is immeasurable, from the lessons he’s learned to the relationships he’s formed. He hopes to pass down some of those experiences to the next generation and help create a similar impact on his students.

LEAD COACH

Location: Highland Park

Caleb grew up in Palatine, IL and played Varsity Golf at Palatine High School. After High School, Caleb continued his golfing career at North Park University, where he was voted captain by his teammates as an upperclassman. His experiences in competitive golf fueled his passion for coaching golf.

Caleb has a love for people, golf, and learning. He believes that golf is a great metaphor for life, and appreciates how learning more about the game can translate into learning more about yourself. Caleb hopes to pass down his knowledge and love of golf to his students. Whether it is in a private lesson or group class, he’s passionate about making connections, and helping the student grow their skill and enjoyment in the game of golf.

SENIOR COACH

Location: Lisle

Originally from the Czech Republic, Dasa was introduced to golf by her dad at the age of 9. Her golf journey began at Menlo College in California and continued at the University of Illinois at Chicago, where she competed as a Division 1 athlete on the women’s golf team.

Dasa brings over seven years of competitive experience, participating in prestigious amateur tournaments and playing on the professional European tour (LET). Alongside her athletic pursuits, she earned a master’s degree in Sport Psychology, which enriches her coaching approach with a profound understanding of mental performance.

As a coach, Dasa embodies a philosophy that harmonizes the mind and body in golf. She emphasizes the cultivation of self-awareness in swing mechanics and mental fortitude, empowering her students to achieve peak performance on the course.

CERTIFIED COACH

Location: Lisle

Danny grew up in Highland Park, Illinois, where he spent his childhood playing soccer and basketball. It wasn’t until later in life that Danny discovered his passion for golf, which quickly became a central focus. His journey with the sport led him to play at College of Lake County, where he developed his skills further and grew to cherish the game deeply.

Danny views golf as more than just a sport; it’s a lifelong journey filled with memories, connections, and friendships made on the course. He treasures the lessons and enduring bonds formed both on and off the course, seeing the game as a source of personal growth and camaraderie.

Danny is dedicated to sharing his enthusiasm and knowledge with others, whether through individual coaching sessions or group settings. He aims to inspire his students to discover their own passion for golf while cultivating their skills and appreciation for the game.

LEAD COACH

Location: Lisle

Zach Hayes is a passionate golf coach at The Golf Practice, bringing a diverse background in education and a deep love for the game to his role. Before transitioning to full-time coaching, Zach spent years working in elementary, middle school, and special education settings, where he developed a unique ability to connect with students of all backgrounds and abilities. His teaching experience has equipped him with the skills to adapt his approach to meet the individual needs of each golfer, whether they are beginners or more advanced players.

Zach’s journey into golf coaching began in 2015 at Canal Shores where he spent several summers working at our golf camps. This hands-on experience with young golfers and beginners was foundational in shaping his coaching philosophy, which emphasizes patience, encouragement, and building confidence. His time at Canal Shores allowed him to hone his skills in creating a fun, supportive environment where golfers could develop both their technique and their love for the game.

Now a full-time coach at The Golf Practice, Zach is dedicated to helping players of all ages and skill levels achieve their goals on the course. His unique combination of educational experience and golfing expertise allows him to provide a well-rounded, personalized coaching experience. Zach’s focus is not only on improving technical skills but also on fostering a positive mindset and a lifelong appreciation for the sport of golf.

LEAD COACH

Location: Lisle

Glenn Pieters is a dedicated golf coach at The Golf Practice, having joined the team in October 2024. With over seven years of experience as a golf professional at prestigious clubs such as The Glen Club and Royal Melbourne Country Club, Glenn brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to his coaching. He has helped golfers of all ages and skill levels and coached PGA Junior League teams, helping young players develop both their abilities and love for the game. Glenn’s coaching style emphasizes building strong relationships with his students while focusing on physical skills and mental strategies, including decision-making, course management, and emotional regulation.

Glenn is deeply committed to fostering a supportive and growth-oriented learning environment. He enjoys creating learning communities where students can collaborate, grow, and reach their potential. His coaching philosophy blends his diverse life experiences, which include competing in tennis through high school, playing for the University of Illinois soccer team, and working professionally in engineering, ministry, and non-profit management. His time serving as a missionary in Kenya has provided him with a unique perspective on personal development, which he integrates into his coaching to help players improve both their game and their mindset.

Originally from Northbrook, Illinois, Glenn graduated from Glenbrook North High School before attending the University of Illinois. Outside of coaching, he is an avid sports enthusiast with a love for skiing, scuba diving, and triathlons. He also enjoys traveling and exploring new cultures. Glenn’s varied interests and experiences allow him to connect with students in meaningful ways, offering both technical guidance and a broader perspective on learning and development.

OPERATIONS LEAD

Location: Lisle

Tanner grew up in Highland Park, Illinois, where he developed a strong athletic foundation through baseball and football. After high school, he discovered a passion for golf, a sport that has since become a cornerstone of his personal and professional journey.

Tanner graduated from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign with a degree in Recreation, Sport and Tourism, equipping him with the knowledge and skills to manage and enhance sports programs. His years of experience working in golf operations at a local course have given him a deep understanding of the industry, from program logistics to creating positive experiences for participants.

As Operations Lead at The Golf Practice, Tanner is dedicated to supporting students and their growth in the game of golf. He values each student’s journey, working closely with parents to ensure they are placed in programs that best fit their goals and needs. Tanner believes in fostering an environment where students not only develop their technical skills but also gain confidence, discipline, and a love for the game. With his passion for golf, commitment to student development, and a focus on operational excellence, Tanner strives to create meaningful and impactful experiences for every participant at The Golf Practice.

CERTIFIED COACH

Location: Highland Park

CERTIFIED COACH

Location: Highland Park

Originally from Sydney, Australia, Olivia was introduced to golf by her grandfather and quickly developed a deep appreciation for the game’s blend of skill, movement, and focus. She went on to compete as a Division I athlete on the women’s golf team at Western Illinois University, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science. Olivia later completed her master’s degree in Kinesiology with a concentration in Sport and Exercise Science.

With a TPI Level 1 certification and a strong background in human movement, Olivia helps players understand how their bodies influence their golf swing. Her coaching emphasizes improving efficiency, mobility, and strength to enhance both performance on the course and overall well-being.