Since 1991, GOLF’s Top 100 Teachers in America franchise has established itself as the preeminent list for recognizing excellence in golf instruction. Our rigorous selection process helps us identify the most accomplished, innovative and dedicated golf teachers in the United States, and each member shares our vision to deliver the best golf instruction to players of all abilities.
As GOLF continues its mission of educating, inspiring and engaging golfers all over the world, we will collaborate with our Top 100 Teachers to lead the charge. Together, we will provide everything you need to become a better, more complete, golfer.
Below, you’ll find the group of instructors who over the last three-plus decades have ranked among the best of the best, our Top 100 Teacher Hall of Famers.
How we pick our Top 100 Teachers
The biennial process is powered by the Top 100 Teachers Credentials Committee, and is the only national golf instructor search that combines outside academic and PGA peer review.
Candidates are screened against a set of criteria evaluating their teaching experience and accomplishments, student portfolio and peer ratings, along with their overall commitment to the growth of the game, both through volunteerism and their ability to use digital platforms.
Along with the public application, candidates are nominated by the PGA, LPGA and others. The committee reviews 250 applications, on average, before selecting the new members.
MORE: Meet the Top 100 Teachers in America
MORE: Meet the Lifetime Achievement Teachers
MORE: Meet the Top 100 Alumni Teachers
MORE: Meet GOLF’s Teachers to Watch
GOLF’s 2026-27 Top 100 Teacher Hall of Fame
Mike Adams
Bedminster Township, N.J.
Chuck Cook
Austin, Texas
Hank Haney
McKinney, Texas
Jim Hardy
Houston, Texas
Butch Harmon
Henderson, Nev.
Michael Hebron
Smithtown, N.Y.
David Leadbetter
Orlando, Fla.
Jack Lumpkin
St. Simons Island, Ga.
Mike McGetrick
Gainesville, Va.
Jim McLean
Miami, Fla.
Eddie Merrins
Los Angeles, Calif.
Dave Pelz
Austin, Texas
Dr. Jim Suttie
Naples, Fla.
Bob Toski
Coconut Creek, Fla.
Gary Wiren
West Palm Beach, Fla.
