The professional staff at Thousand Oaks welcome the opportunity to work with their students by focusing on identifying the player’s goals and implementing and executing a game plan to meet that goal.
ERIC CONROY, PGA
Head Golf Professional
Eric Conroy is in his ninth season at Thousand Oaks Golf Club, bringing a wealth of experience, dedication, and enthusiasm to the team. A native of Rockford, MI, and a graduate of the prestigious Professional Golf Management program at Ferris State University, Eric has developed his expertise at renowned clubs, including Rancho La Quinta Country Club in La Quinta, CA, Sutton Bay in Agar, SD, and Cherry Creek Country Club in Denver, CO. With an in-depth understanding of the game and a passion for exceptional service, Eric takes pride in contributing to the success of Thousand Oaks and delivering an outstanding experience for its members.
Ella Hoffman
Golf Professional
As a Western Michigan graduate and Portage, MI native, Ella brings a strong background in instruction, player development, and club operations to her role at Thousand Oaks Golf Club. Her background as a college golfer allows her to combine her competitive experience with a passion for helping golfers of all skill levels improve and enjoy the game.
Ella has developed her experience at Kalamazoo Country Club and as a manager at the PGA Superstore, where she gained extensive knowledge in club fitting, equipment, and repair services. Passionate about teaching and growing the game, she enjoys working with members to create a welcoming environment while helping players reach their goals.
MITCHELL CHOPP, PGA
Golf Professional
Mitchell, a Fenton, Michigan native, graduated from Grand Valley State University in 2022. He has completed Level 1 and Level 2 of the PGA Executive Management Program and, in 2025, was elected into PGA membership. Passionate about teaching and growing the game, Mitchell enjoys working with members and the Grand Rapids community to help players improve their skills.
RAQUEL BRYANT, PGA
Teaching Professional
Raquel Bryant has been a part of Thousand Oaks Golf Club since 2009, when she became a PGA Professional. A former collegiate golfer at Ferris State University, Raquel competed on a nationally recognized team before transitioning to her passion for teaching. Raquel leads the Ladies’ Edge program, coaches a PGA Junior League team, and directs the Thousand Oaks Junior Golf Program – FUNdamentals Edge. This program earned the Michigan PGA Junior Golf Program of the Year award in 2019 and 2021. Raquel has also been recognized with the Michigan PGA Youth Player Development Award in both 2015 and 2023. Whether you're looking to fine-tune your swing or learn the game, Raquel is dedicated to helping golfers of all skill levels.
Book a lesson with Raquel:
https://www.thousandoaksgolf.com/golf-programs-lessons/
Lesson Rates:
Juniors: $110
Adults: $120
BRIAN KOTOWICZ, PGA
Teaching Professional
Brian Kotowicz brings over 25 years of experience to his role as a PGA Teaching Professional. Having been a member of the PGA for more than two decades and a professional at Thousand Oaks for six years, Brian is known for his patient and personalized teaching style. A graduate of Ferris State University, Brian grew up in Toledo, Ohio, and now resides in Rockford, Michigan, with his wife, SuLin. Brian works with golfers of all skill levels, offering expert guidance to help each individual refine their skills and reach their personal goals on the course.
Book a lesson with Brian:
https://www.thousandoaksgolf.com/golf-programs-lessons/
Lesson Rates:
Juniors: $110
Adults: $120
Payne Gniewek, PGA
Teaching Professional
Payne Gniewek is an accomplished golf instructor with over eight years of experience teaching golfers at all levels. Specializing in swing mechanics, short game, and mental strategies, Payne tailors each lesson and group program to meet the individual needs of his students. With a passion for helping golfers improve their game, Payne combines his technical expertise with a personalized approach to build confidence and achieve goals. He is dedicated to fostering a positive and supportive learning environment, ensuring that each student has the tools to unlock their full potential on the course.
Book a lesson with Payne:
https://www.thousandoaksgolf.com/golf-programs-lessons/
Lesson Rates:
Juniors: $110
Adults: $120
CHARLEY VANDENBERG, PGA
Master Professional
Charley VandenBerg is one of the most accomplished instructors in the region, having earned the title of PGA Master Professional in 1991. With over 45 years of teaching experience, Charley has worked alongside some of the world’s best instructors and dedicated his career to coaching golfers of all skill levels. He is Michigan’s only five-time recipient of the PGA Teacher of the Year award and a two-time finalist for the National Teacher of the Year honor. Charley’s students have achieved success in nearly every major Michigan tournament across Men’s, Women’s, and Junior divisions.
Book a lesson with Charley:
https://www.charleyvandenberg.com/
Lesson Rates:
Juniors: $150
Adults: $180