Northbrook Park District Golf Programs Offer Spring Instruction

NORTHBROOK, IL — Residents can participate in various golf programs offered by the Northbrook Park District this spring. The Northbrook Golf Academy provides instruction for children and adults at Heritage Oaks Golf Club and Anetsberger Golf Course. Programs range from beginner classes to competitive leagues.

Michael Wenzel, PGA Director of Golf Instruction, leads the Northbrook Golf Academy. Wenzel is recognized as a Top 100 Growth of the Game Teaching Professional.

"You have to figure out what is the most important thing to focus on, and work on that," Wenzel said. "Once you have mastered that, you move on to the next most important thing. And so on. That's how you achieve true success. You have to keep it simple and always maintain a positive attitude."

Teaching professional Cindy Lee-Pridgen directs the LPGA/USGA Girls Golf program for ages 7 to 16. Lee-Pridgen is working toward becoming a Class A LPGA Professional and expects to pass her final level in May.

"I try to create an environment where the girls are comfortable with each other, and help them build their confidence and empower them to be their own person," she said, adding her love of golf stemmed from her mother, who played in women's events and took her to the golf course as a child.

An LPGA/USGA Girls Golf Experience Day is scheduled for Sunday, March 15, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Greenbriar School. This event allows girls to try chipping, putting, and full swings, with golf clubs and free swag provided. Lee-Pridgen said the event is for girls to discover the golf experience and have fun.

Additional Northbrook Park District golf programs include classes for children ages 3 to 14, NGA Youth Golf Travel League, PGA Jr. League for ages 7 to 14, and NGA Teen 9-Hole League. Adult offerings include "Get Golf Ready" clinics at three levels and a recreational league for men and women. Private lessons are also available through the Northbrook Golf Academy. More information and registration details can be found on the Park District's website.