ABOUT YOUR PRO:

Brian Natzel grew up Huron County, a 1997 graduate from the Bad Axe school district.  At the age of 13, Brian became truly interested and obsessed with the game of golf; learning, practicing, and playing nearly every waking moment.  “The game of golf demanded my attention, molded my competitive spirit, and taught me so much more.”

Terry Ernst, PGA Head Professional at Verona Hills, became Brian’s mentor and focused Brian’s love for the game of golf towards the PGA.  Brian graduated from Ferris State University in the Professional Golf Management Program (PGM) in 2000, earning a degree in Marketing, Accounting, and the Science of Business.  In 2001 Brian completed the Golf Professional Training Program (GPTP) and became a member of the PGA.

After graduation, Brian continued his drive as a young professional at the “AAA” Four Diamond Resort, Garland in Lewiston , MI , where he became the Head Golf Instructor and Leisure Group Sales Manager.  Brian managed the Garland Golf Academy and taught students of all abilities and ages, including PGA Teaching Professionals, Tour Professional Tom Gillis, and Long Drive Champion, Dave “The Magnum” Willard.

Gaining confidence and success as an instructor, Brian went to the Treetops Resort where Managing Partner and Nationally renown Top 5 Instructor, Rick Smith gained his fame.  Brian worked with Rick during clinics for the ESPN Par 3 Shootout and worked with the Rick Smith Golf Academy .  Brian spent hours observing, helping, and studying Rick’s work with Phil Michelson, Lee Jansen, and Parker McLacklin, a top 10 money winner on the Nationwide Tour.  Brian also taught at one of the Nations Top 25 Ladies Schools, headed junior clinics, junior camps, and established and coached the Gaylord Area Middle School Golf Team; a traveling junior team.  During this time Brian met and recruited his favorite student to the team.  Hunter Billiter, a promising eight year from the Standish-Sterling area of Michigan, who shot in the 50’s for nine holes when the two met.  Now at the age of ten, Hunter won every golf tournament he entered in the 2006 season, while competing against kids two years older then him.  During this impressive year Hunter shot even par for the first time.  

Now at Ubly Heights Golf and Country Club, returning home, Brian hopes to continue to explore the world of instruction.  “Golf is a wonderful game and in reality, still just a game, but Wow, much more enjoyable when hard work, dedication, and instruction help individuals, and even myself, play better golf.”

“I hope to see you practicing, and feel free to ask for advice or how lessons can improve your game.”  Brian Natzel, PGA Head Professional.