(616) 363.GOLF

2012 Winter Hours of Operation and Rates

The Thousand Oaks Golf Academy opened in 2007 featuring two full time instructors, state of the art video analysis equipment, and the MEGSA Perfect Practice System. The Academy features the finest in private golf instruction as well as a wide variety of clinics, camps, and schools. Programs can also be tailor-made to your specific needs whether it entertains your business clients or jump-starts your golf outing. In every case the Thousand Oaks Golf Academy will enthusiastically furnish an unforgettable instructional experience to delight the novice or expert.

Charley Vandenberg, PGA Master Professional

After twenty-four years of service as Head Professional at Kent Country Club, Charley followed his passion and co-introduced the Thousand Oaks Golf Academy. Charley’s all encompassing foray into the golf instruction arena features tour proven principals which enhance the golfing skills of all students, regardless of age or current abilities. Only the best technology and feedback learning tools are utilized with the finest video and computer systems available. In 1990, Charley became the 69th PGA member to be elected to Master Professional status nationwide. He has been nominated eleven times for the Michigan PGA Teacher of the Year award, capturing the prestigious honor in 1998, 2003, and 2007, 2010 and was named a Top Six Finalist for the 2010 National PGA Teacher of the Year award.Charley’s students include multiple players on professional tours as well as numerous champions in Michigan’s most competitive events including Men’s, Women’s, Senior, Mid-Amateur, and Junior Amateur tournaments. Students have tallied numerous high school state champion titles and many are currently attending college across the country on golf scholarships.

Randy Ernst, PGA Professional Senior Instructor

Randy comes to the Thousand Oaks Golf Academy after working as the head golf professional at Centennial Country Club in Grand Rapids, Michigan for more than 10 years. Randy spent seven years on the PGA Tour in which he caddied over 120 events and 20 majors for such notables as Dan Pohl, Ed Sneed, Tom Purtzer, Andy Bean, and Bob Gilder. These opportunities have provided Randy with an extensive course management background and he brings a unique learning perspective of the game to the academy. Randy coordinates all the clinics and camps provided at the Thousand Oaks Golf Academy. Every year he leads junior clinics, high school golf camps, and works with golf outings to enhance their participants’ satisfaction with golf clinics. He also organized clinics for the East Grand Rapids Recreation Department and the Forest Hills School Districts, and taught After School Golf Association programs at Lowell, Rockford, East Grand Rapids, Forest Hills, and Wayland school districts. His students have competed in local and statewide competitions, including state championships.