Professional Staff
Our professional golf staff is available to assist members in perfecting their game. All golfers at every level can benefit from the expertise of a professional coach.
John Cochrane, PGA, Director of Golf
“Attitude is everything and enthusiasm is contagious” is John’s professional mantra. Golf has been a part of his life since early childhood, and whether he’s running a nationally televised golf tournament, or teaching a group of juniors, John’s genuine enthusiasm for golf and life is evident to those around him.
John’s golf career unfolded in the southern California desert, where he was an Assistant Professional at La Quinta Resort and Club, Head Professional at PGA West Resort, and Director of Golf at PGA West Private. Throughout this time, John was the host professional for such major events as the Bob Hope Classic, Diner’s Club Matches, Liberty Mutual Legends of Golf, PGA Tour Qualifying School, California State Open, and the NCAA Women’s National Championships. He has organized and taught clinics with Gary McCord, David Gossett, Brad Faxon, and Jim McLean, and is a certified Jim McLean instructor. John has been nominated for Golf Digest’s Teacher of the Year, and was named the 2008 Merchandiser of the Year by the local SCPGA Chapter.
For John, helping others to enjoy the game of golf as much as he does brings the most satisfaction. In his years of teaching and playing with members, he has had the opportunity to help members of all ages and abilities to better appreciate their own game and to get the most enjoyment from each round they play.
John also provides lessons for our members.
Steve Baessler, First Assistant Golf Professional
Since joining the golf professional staff at Del Mar Country Club, Steve Baessler has become a favorite among the members for his witty personality and easy-going style. Prior to Del Mar, Steve was an assistant golf professional at La Costa Resort and Spa. He is currently a PGA Apprentice and is working on his Class A status. Steve is passionate about the game, and enjoys both teaching and playing with members.
In addition to having a talent for golf, Steve is also an accomplished musician. As a professional drummer, Steve plays with various bands around the San Diego area, and has recorded CDs with the group “Who We Are”.
Steve also provides lessons for our members.
Garett Dagg, Assistant Golf Professional
A student of the game since he was very young, Garett Dagg received a four-year golf scholarship to Chico State. Since then, he has honed his golf skills to become one of the top up and coming amateur players in the industry. Garett was recognized with NAIA All Team Individual Honors at the 2005 NAIA National Championship, has won multiple Southern California PGA section tournaments, and was the 2009 PGA San Diego Chapter Champion. He has played on mini tours, including the Spanos Tour and the Golden State tour, holds the course record at Riverview Country Club (63), and qualified for the 2008 PGA Assistant National Championship. His career low tournament record is 65, which he shot during the 2009 Nevada Open.
As an instructor, Garett enjoys helping the beginning golfer with their first lesson as much as he does the experienced player looking to sharpen their skills. He helps his students to have a clear understanding of their strengths and weaknesses so they can make improvements and devise a clear plan to obtain their goals. Having worked with PGA Tour golf instructors, Garett embraces the philosophy that one style doesn’t fit all. His number one goal is to make learning the game of golf as much fun as possible.
Garett also provides lessons for our members.
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