About The Golf Practice

FOUNDER

A brief conversation with Peter, who’s nearing 40 years as a PGA Professional, reflects why he’s won numerous awards and accolades as one of Chicago’s top golf coaches.

“Anything can be learned” is the cornerstone of his coaching philosophy. “Skill development and behavior modification go hand-in-hand. Learning how to practice well, and learning to enjoy your practice, is a fundamental aspect of enjoying the game of golf.”

OWNER | DEAN OF INSTRUCTION

A teaching career that spans nearly 20 years, Chris is our Academy’s Dean of Instruction. He’s been selected by Golf Magazine to there “Teachers to Watch” list 2024-2025. In addition he’s been recognized by the Illinois PGA and U.S. Kids Golf as a leader in instruction.

Chris, whose teaching philosophy was molded from the tutelage of Hank Haney and Stan Utley, has worked with players of all abilities — from the professional and college ranks to competitive youth golfers, elite amateurs and recreational players. One of his strengths is being able to develop personalized training plans that facilitate deeper learning and retention for students.

A proud native of Canada, Chris became a PGA Professional in 2005 after a successful Division I golf career. Chris, whose work has been featured on several media platforms, serves on the Illinois PGA Foundation’s Board of Directors and The First Tee of Greater Chicago’s Young Ambassadors Council.

OWNER | DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Alex started with The Golf Practice in January 2018. As Director of Operations, Alex oversees all facets of the business including strategic planning, facility development, human resources, and financial analysis.

Alex joined The Golf Practice after a successful nine-year career in golf facility management with KemperSports. During that time, Alex was the Head Golf Professional at The Glen Club and served as General Manager at Highland Park Country Club, overseeing all aspects of the facility including banquets, golf course maintenance, driving range, and golf shop operations.

DIRECTOR OF INSTRUCTION | FITNESS EXPERT

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

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.

LEAD COACH

Steve grew up in Winnetka and played golf at New Trier High School. A Purdue University graduate, Steve has been a part of TGP’s junior programs since he joined the academy in 2019.

His main coaching influences are George Gankas and Adam Young. The two differ in their approach to the swing, but Steve believes a blend of both styles—internal vs. external mindset, for one—proves to be most successful for his junior and adult students.

Like our entire staff, the impact golf has had on Steve is immeasurable, from the hours spent outside bonding with friends and family to the experiences and characteristics he’s gained and uses in his everyday life.

LEAD COACH

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.

DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS | LEAD COACH

Rob joined The Golf Practice in the summer of 2021 after coaching the North Park University men’s team for five seasons. Under his leadership at North Park, the team’s national ranking improved by more than 125 spots, and their scoring average improved by more than 37 strokes per round.

Rob brings a coaching and caddying mentality to his lessons. He loves finding the balance between technical and strategic changes and helping his students know the difference between physical and mental errors. Rob believes in playing free and hitting the easiest shot possible!

Rob loves being outside and believes there is never bad weather but only bad clothing and tries to extend the Chicago golf season as long as possible. He’s very excited to pass along his love for the game to his two young boys. When he’s not playing with his boys, you’ll find him playing with his great friend and former collegiate teammate, Andy Hayes.

CERTIFIED COACH

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.

OPERATIONS LEAD

Zach has a degree in Sports Management and Communications from Minnesota State University. He is a lifelong golfer, and began to love the game after watching Tiger Woods’ famous chip in on the 16th hole of the 2005 Masters.

At The Golf Practice Zach handles all phone and email communications. At The Golf Practice we believe the relationship between student and coach is extremely important. Zach knows our coaches very well, and prides himself in helping students find the best coach for their needs. In the summer he plays a vital role in the administration and running of our summer camp at Canal Shores. If you have any programming, scheduling, lesson needs, or general questions, Zach will be a valuable resource for you.

MENTAL PERFORMANCE COACH

As a mental performance consultant, Josh aims to facilitate the process of improving each golfer’s mindset and overall wellbeing. Among many mental skills, Josh helps golfers build confidence, increase motivation, form resilience, and enhance focus. Important to note: Josh works with all ages, regardless of skill level.

Josh utilizes a very personalized approach in his work with golfers. Included in all of his offerings, Josh identifies each golfer’s mental strengths and potential areas for growth. He then introduces, educates, and provides tools to help each golfer train their necessary mental skills.

In addition, Josh approaches his work in a therapeutic and supportive way. Along with providing mental skills training, Josh aims to create a comfortable space for each golfer to debrief what may be going on in their day-to-day lives in addition to golf. Josh has found success in working with collegiate D1 golf programs and individual golfers at the high school and collegiate levels.

CERTIFIED COACH

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

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.

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.

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.