This month we interview Noah Horstman of West Coast Golf Academy in Medford, Oregon.
PGA Member since: 2009
In July 2023, Noah Horstman initiated the development of a 20,000-square-foot indoor golf training facility named the Golf Garage in Phoenix. This project, which he had envisioned for 15 years, has now been realized. Horstman, owner of Golf Garage and West Coast Golf Academy, describes the facility as fully equipped with 10 golf simulator bays, an indoor short game area, PuttView technology, a performance coaching area, a physical therapy and chiropractic clinic, locker rooms, a kids’ play area, and a club-fitting service. An outdoor bunker, chipping green, and food trucks are also part of the facility.
Horstman highlights the comprehensive player development program offered, which includes over 150 different programs with a stair-step approach. “We have player development programs across the board with over 150 different programs and a stair-step approach,” said Horstman. The facility also features a full bar area and partnerships with physical therapists, making it a well-rounded training environment. The Golf Garage operates 24/7, with a membership base of 200 and additional public availability during non-peak times. “The 24/7 access is second to none. That was a big part of what we were trying to accomplish,” he added.
Horstman’s journey in golf began at age 12, progressing through various professional roles, including director of instruction and player development at Beechmont Country Club in Ohio, and receiving numerous accolades such as Golf Digest’s “Best Teacher in the State” and Pacific Northwest PGA Youth Player Development Award. “I started the PGA program right out of college, 2006, and I completed my membership in 2009,” he shared.
He emphasizes the importance of creating a family-friendly and inclusive culture at the Golf Garage, allowing for flexible programming and year-round play. “It’s a culture first and foremost. It’s a family environment that we want everybody to come in and enjoy,” said Horstman. The facility’s state-of-the-art technology, such as the latest Foresight units and an iPutting green, supports comprehensive training and fitting. “We have the best technology that’s going to grow and adapt with us,” he noted.
Horstman advises aspiring PGA Professionals to follow their dreams, learn from others’ experiences, and remain goal-oriented. “My advice to any PGA professional that has aspirations of something like this is to follow your dreams. You don’t have to build Rome in a night,” he encouraged. He extends an invitation to professionals and golf enthusiasts to visit the Golf Garage, utilize its facilities, and participate in golf schools and other programs. “I’d love for any professional to come down and get fit or utilize the technology. This is the place to do it, and we would love to have you come down and test it out,” said Horstman.