About Us
WE ARE A COMMUNITY ORIENTED
Golf Academy

Our Give-Back Program
At Lion Golf Academy, we believe golf should be for everyone — not just a select few. Since 2016, we’ve built a give-back program that supports low-income youth in the communities surrounding our U.S. academies and in the Cape Flats region of Cape Town, South Africa.
- Local Scholarships: For every 10 active students enrolled, we provide 1 full scholarship for a child whose family cannot afford golf. This covers lessons, access to classes, and the full academy experience.
- Global Impact: Through our partnership in South Africa, 20% of our profits go toward equipment, lessons, tee times, and field trips, opening doors for children who would otherwise never have access to the game.
By joining our academy, you’re not just investing in your child — you’re helping us grow the game worldwide, giving every young golfer the chance to learn, compete, and develop life skills through golf.

What Makes us Unique
Lion Golf Academy is Southern California’s premier full-time player development academy, trusted by thousands of families since 2016. We are the only academy that offers a complete program for all ages and abilities, with a clear pathway from first swing to tournament play.
- A Proven Pathway: From our Junior Development Program (ages 2+) to the On-Course Transition Class and our invite-only Junior Tour, students progress with purpose — developing skills, confidence, and life lessons every step of the way.
- Lowest Ratios in the Country: Small groups (4:1 or 2:1 depending on location) ensure personalized instruction for juniors and adults.
- PGA-Certified Professionals: Every coach is trained in the latest player development and teaching methodologies, making sure instruction is modern, effective, and individualized.
- Complete Access: Memberships include year-round classes, seasonal camps (10–12 weeks each year), 90-minute on-course sessionsand exclusive member-only clinics, seminars, and events.
- For the Whole Family: Programs for juniors, adults, and complete beginners — with a welcoming community that grows together.
- Community Commitment: Through our Give-Back Program, 20% of profits fund scholarships locally and in South Africa, ensuring golf is accessible to every child, not just the few.
- Proven Success: Many of our juniors have gone on to play in AJGA, SCPGA, and even earn college scholarships — and families stay because of the friendships, support, and results.
At Lion Golf Academy, we don’t just teach golf. We build leaders in life, provide a supportive community, and deliver the most complete player development experience in the country — all at an affordable price.
MEET THE
Coaches
Our coaches are experienced professionals who focus on cause and effect, not quick fixes helping golfers understand why the ball does what it does. Every coach is aligned with Lion Golf Academy’s philosophy of individualized instruction, making the game simpler, safer, and more sustainable for players of all ages and skill levels.

Tony Brooks
Founder – Game Of Life First, INC.
Regional Director of Instruction
PGA Legacy Master Professional
2025 GRAA Elite Status – “Top Growth of the Game Professionals in the U.S.”
2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2018 GRAA “Top 100 Growth of the Game Professionals in the U.S.”
2022 Voted “Best Golf Instructor in Palm Desert”
ADM Certified
TPI Certified
Henry Griffitts Certified Clubfitter
Regional Director of Instruction
PGA Legacy Master Professional
2025 GRAA Elite Status – “Top Growth of the Game Professionals in the U.S.”
2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2018 GRAA “Top 100 Growth of the Game Professionals in the U.S.”
2022 Voted “Best Golf Instructor in Palm Desert”
ADM Certified
TPI Certified
Henry Griffitts Certified Clubfitter










Ryan Davis
Glen Ivy Golf Club
Teaching Professional
PGA Certified Professional
ADM Certified
TPI Certified



Bryce Goss
Teaching Professional
Mountain Meadows Golf Course
Assistant Teaching Professional
PGA Apprentice / Associate

Joseph Plaut
Mission Bay Golf Course
Assistant Teaching Professional
PGA Apprentice / Associate

Nate Noblitt
Mission Bay Golf Course
Assistant Teaching Professional
PGA Apprentice / Associate

Euna Kim
Mountain Meadows Golf Course
Assistant Teaching Professional
USGTA
TPI certified
Assistant Teaching Professional
USGTA
TPI certified

Lester Lagman
Mountain Meadows Golf Course
Assistant Teaching Professional
Assistant Teaching Professional

Eric Tarakjian
Mission Bay Golf Course / Balboa Park Golf Course
Assistant Teaching Professional
Assistant Teaching Professional