Gene Bakkum
Gene is a Class "A" PGA Professional, a Golf Digest Best Teachers in California (2022–2023 & 2026–2027), 2024 Top 50 U.S. Kids Coach, Top 100 GRAA Teaching Professional, and recipient of the 2021 & 2023 NCPGA Player Development, 2022 & 2024 Youth Player Development, and 2024 Professional Development Awards. From 2002–2016, he was on the UC Berkeley Men’s Golf coaching staff, leading player development and helping the team win its first-ever NCAA Division I National Championship in 2004. He previously coached at UC Davis, helping the team reach a #1 national NCAA Division II ranking. Gene also coached at premier Nike Junior Golf Camps, including the flagship camp in Pebble Beach, and brings that national experience to his teaching at Metropolitan Golf Links (since 2004) and NorCal Golf Academy (since 2016).
2004 NCAA Division I Champions
We won the National Title with Gene's Coaching!
Awards and Certificates
PGA Class A Professional
TPI Level 3 Golf Instructor
TPI Level 2 Junior Coach
US Kids Certified Coach
Swing Catalyst Level 2 Certified
2004 UC Berkeley Men's Assistant Golf Coach
UC Berkeley Men's Volunteer Golf Coach
2004 NCAA Champions
Bachelors Degree in Biomechanics and Sport Psychology from UC Davis
2023 NCPGA Player Development Award
GOLF DIGEST Best In State 2022-2023
GOLF DIGEST Best In State 2026-2027
Positive Coaching Alliance Certified Double-Goal Coach
ADM Certified Coach
2024 NCPGA Youth Player Development Award
US Adaptive Golf Alliance Certified
2021 NCPGA Player Development Award
2022 NCPGA Youth Player Development Award
2024 NCPGA Professional Development Award