The Valley The Valley Club Club Golf Instruction Golf Instruction Programs Programs
(208) 788-1441
golf@thevalleyclub.org
thevalleyclub.org
The Valley Club PGA Golf Instructors Elevate your game with our premier instruction programming led by PGA Professionals at The Valley Club. Utilizing cutting-edge Trackman data technology, our experienced instructors provide personalized coaching tailored to your unique needs and goals. With access to our short game area, West Campus, and our diverse 27-hole facility, you’ll have the perfect environment to fine-tune every aspect of your game, from tee to green. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, our instruction programming offers the expertise and resources you need to unlock your full potential. Reservations for lessons may be scheduled through the Golf Shop, via phone at 208-788-1441 or personally email one of our PGA Golf Professionals.
Jim Empey Director of Instruction, PGA Jim Empey, Director of Instruction, began his golf journey at USC before turning professional in 1984. After coaching the USC Men’s Golf Team, he relocated to Idaho in 1997, teaching at Quail Hollow Golf Club in Boise before joining The Valley Club in 2023. Empey boasts numerous awards from the Rocky Mountain Section of the PGA, including winning the Idaho Open Championship in 2013. With a rich background spanning both collegiate and professional realms, he continues to leave a significant mark on the golfing world through his dedication to instruction and his notable achievements in the sport. Some of Jim’s accomplishments: • 7-Time Teacher of the Year, Rocky Mtn. Section, PGA • 3-Time Player of the Year, Rocky Mtn. Section, PGA • 7-Time Senior Player of the Year, Rocky Mtn. Section, PGA • 4-Time Section Champion, Rocky Mtn. Section, PGA • “Best Teachers in Idaho” from Golf Digest, since 2010 • “Top 10 Teachers in the Northwest US” from Golf Magazine • Played in four Major Championships Email: jim@thevalleyclub.org
Jake Hanson Director of Golf, PGA Jake Hanson, Director of Golf, is embarking on his twelfth season at The Valley Club. From the charming town of Walla Walla, Washington, Jake’s passion for golf led him to New Mexico State University, where he pursued a degree in PGA Golf Management alongside a business degree. His journey in the golf industry has taken him from Walla Walla Country Club to Tamarack Country Club in Greenwich, CT, Incline Village in Lake Tahoe, and Monroe Golf Club in Rochester, New York. Jake’s golf instruction philosophy, heavily influenced by renowned mentors in the field, centers around a club-focused approach, harnessing the power of technology with tools like Trackman and various teaching apps to effectively convey his insights to his students. In addition to his thriving career, Jake shares his life with his wife, Bronwyn, and the two share a love for fishing along Silver Creek and the Bigwood River, hiking through scenic trails, indulging in rounds of golf, and spending quality time with their loyal companion, Murphy. Email: jake@thevalleyclub.org
Jacob Howse Head Golf Professional, PGA Jacob Howse, Head Golf Professional, was born and raised in El Paso, Texas where he began golfing around the age of three. When he got to high school he played all four years on the Varsity golf team, where he was the Captain his senior year. After high school he attended New Mexico State University. While at NMSU he was a Marketing major with an emphasis in PGA Golf Management. He came to The Valley Club in the summer of 2019 and while at The Club, he found the two main areas he really enjoyed were running tournaments and helping players improve their golf game. In his free time, he enjoys working on his golf game, playing just about every sport, and enjoying the outdoors. Email: jacob@thevalleyclub.org
Stoney Brown Pro Emeritus, PGA Stoney Brown, Pro Emeritus, began his golf journey in rural Memphis, Missouri. His love for golf grew during high school, leading to a swift rise in the golf world. Turning professional in 1966, he honed his skills at various clubs. Elected to the PGA of America in 1972, he served as Head Pro at Crane Creek Country Club for 28 years. Stoney, passionate about golf and fly fishing, is a respected figure in the golf community, showcasing his enduring commitment from small town Memphis to professional success. Some of Stoney’s accomplishments: • PGA of America Half Century Member • Head Golf Professional at Crane Creek CC from 1976 - 2004 • Director of Golf at The Valley Club from 2004 - 2016 • 1987 and 1995 Rocky Mtn. Section, PGA, Golf Professional of the Year • 1997 National PGA Golf Professional Development Award winner • 2005 Rocky Mountain Section of the PGA, Teacher of the Year • 2014 inducted into the Rocky Mtn. Section, PGA Hall of Fame • Author of “The Full Golf Motion Made Simple”
Tommy Sanderson Head Teaching Professional, PGA Tommy Sanderson, Head Teaching Professional, came from a golfcentric family, with both his father and brother being esteemed PGA Professionals. At 18, he turned professional and spent three impactful years on the PGA Tour. In 1974, he founded the Elkhorn Golf Resort in Sun Valley and served as Director of Golf. Later, he acquired Quail Hollow Golf Club in Boise, solidifying his dedication to golf and its community. Since 1999, he has been teaching at The Valley Club, nurturing aspiring golfers and fostering a profound love for the game. Some of Tommy’s accomplishments: • Played PGA Tour for three years • Senior Idaho Open Winner • Northern California Senior Open Winner • Three-time Teacher of the Year, Rocky Mtn. Section of the PGA • Golf Digest Best teachers in Idaho numerous times • Played in one US Open • Played in one PGA Championship • Played in two PGA Senior Championships
Garret Beal Lead Golf Experience Professional, PGA Garret’s passion for golf blossomed under his father’s guidance during his childhood. It wasn’t until he explored various sports like soccer, baseball, and rugby that his devotion to golf truly took root. Focused solely on golf throughout high school, he committed to a career in the sport by enrolling in the New Mexico State University PGA Golf Management Program, becoming the fourth generation in his family to graduate from the institution in 2018. During his studies, Garret interned at prestigious clubs like Napa Valley Country Club and Knickerbocker Country Club before finding his calling at The Valley Club. Immediately after graduation, he secured a position as Assistant Golf Professional, building strong connections with Members, management, and the community. His teaching philosophy, influenced by his childhood coach, revolves around reinforcing foundational skills. He emphasizes clear tactical areas of improvement, diagnosing issues, designing focused improvement plans, and stressing the importance of consistent practice. Outside of golf, Garret enjoys camping, hiking, fishing, and even competes in recreational curling. Email: garret@thevalleyclub.org
Matt Rawlings Assistant Golf Professional, PGA Born and raised in Orange County, California, Matt developed a passion for sports and the outdoors at an early age. After graduating from the PGM program at UNLV, he began building a career in the golf industry that has taken him to some of the country's most respected golf destinations, including Las Vegas, Telluride, and most recently Indian Ridge in California's Coachella Valley. Throughout Matt’s career, he has had the opportunity to work at a wide variety of golf facilities, including private clubs, public courses, and resort properties. These experiences have allowed Matt to connect with golfers from all walks of life while developing a well-rounded understanding of the game and the club experience. Away from work, Matt enjoys following sports, spending time on the golf course, and taking advantage of opportunities to ski whenever possible. Whether it's football season, a day on the slopes, or a round of golf with friends, Matt appreciates the sense of community and competition that sports bring to everyday life.
Preston Hammond Assistant Golf Professional Preston Hammond, Assistant Golf Professional, was raised in Idaho most of his life, living in towns such as Coeur D’Alene, Sandpoint, Salmon, and now Hailey. He began golfing in middle school, where he fell in love with the individualistic and outdoor aspects of the game. After high school, Preston chose to attend the University of Idaho, where he studied Marketing and PGA Golf Management. During his time in the PGA Golf Management program, the golf industry took him to Stock Farm in Hamilton, Montana and Frost Creek in Eagle, Colorado. He first came to The Valley Club in the summer of 2024 where he found a passion for tournament operations and teaching golf to all ages, focusing on helping all players set up their golf swing for success and assisting with course management strategy. Outside of The Valley Club, Preston lives his life alongside his wife, Emma, and their two cats, Gambino and Doja. He enjoys fishing all over Idaho, skiing at Sun Valley and Lost Trail, following sports, and playing golf every day he can. Email: preston@thevalleyclub.org
Sarah Archuleta Assistant Teaching Professional Sarah Archuleta, Assistant Teaching Professional, has more than seven years of experience helping golfers of all ages improve their games and enjoy the sport. Raised in West Linn, Oregon, Sarah developed a strong passion for golf at an early age that led her to compete at the Division I level for Colorado State University. Following her collegiate career, she discovered a deep love for instruction while learning under respected Director of Instruction Scott Erdmann, an experience that inspired her to pursue teaching full-time. Sarah previously served as Director of Junior Golf at Oswego Lake Country Club, where she built and led successful junior programs while also developing ladies academies focused on skill development, confidence, and creating a welcoming environment for players of all abilities. She is a PGA Associate and holds certifications through Trackman, U.S. Kids Golf, and Operation 36. In addition, Sarah spent four years coaching a 6A high school golf team, helping young athletes grow both competitively and personally. Sarah is passionate about building confidence in every student while creating a fun and encouraging learning atmosphere. Outside of golf, she enjoys spending time outdoors skiing, fishing, swimming, and photography.
Instruction Pricing Jim Empey, PGA - $200/hour – $100/half hour Tommy Sanderson, PGA - $150/hour – $75/half hour Stoney Brown, PGA - $150/hour – $75/half hour Jake Hanson, PGA - $150/hour – $75/half hour Jacob Howse, PGA - $130/hour – $65/half hour Garret Beal, PGA - $120/hour – $60/half hour Matt Rawlings, PGA - $120/hour – $60/half hour Preston Hammond - $120/hour – $60/half hour Sarah Archuleta - $120/hour – $60/half hour
The Valley Club Instructional Programs Get Golf Ready This series of group lessons will help participants prepare for the coming season, focusing on the fundamental skills needed to play the game. The five sessions will cover various aspects of golf and will include stretching to help transition from winter to summertime on the course. Sign-ups begin April 29 on ForeTees Dates: May 25, 26, 27, 28, 29 When: 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. at the practice area Cost: $175/person - 18 people max
VCWG Clinics These five complimentary sessions will address several broad topics in golf and are scheduled throughout the season. Maximum of 12 students per session. All VCWG Members are welcome! Sign up on ForeTees one month in advance Dates: June 17, July 8, 22 & 29 and August 5 When: 9:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m.
Ladies’ Practice with a Purpose This season-long program will include an in depth look at all facets of the game, from putting and short game to driving and course strategy. The participants will have a chance to learn overall concepts, but also receive one-on-one attention for their individual needs. Sign-ups begin May 4 on ForeTees. Thursdays at 10:00 a.m. June 4, 11, 18, July 9, 23, 30, August 6, 20, 27, September 3, 10, 17, 24, October 1, 8 Fridays at 9:00 a.m and 10:00 a.m. June 5, 12, 19, July 10, 24, 31, August 7, 21, 28, September 4, 11, 18, 25, October 2, 9 Saturdays at 9:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. June 6, 13, 20, July 11, 25, August 1, 8, 22, 29, September 5, 12, 19, 26, October 3, 10 Each group will have a maximum of eight participants. Cost: $600/person
Men’s Practice with a Purpose Beginning in early June, this comprehensive program will cover all facets of golf, with special attention given to polishing fundamental skills and helping participants gain flexibility, swing speed and distance. Sign-ups begin May 4 on ForeTees. Thursdays at 9:00 a.m. June 4, 11, 18, 25, July 9, 23, 30, August 6, 20, 27, September 3, 10, 17, 24, October 1, 8 Cost: $600/person
360 Golf Performance Workshop Take your game further with our 360 Golf Performance Workshop. This intensive, all-day experience dives deep into every aspect of your game. Refine your full swing, master techniques around the green, and hone your putting skills. Learn valuable course management strategies to conquer the course with confidence. Led by our expert instructors, Jim Empey, Jake Hanson, and Jacob Howse, this workshop is your complete golf improvement journey in one day. Walk away with the knowledge and skills to elevate your game to the next level. Register one month in advance. Dates: June 9 & September 8 When: 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Price: $300/session, lunch included and cocktails afterwards 18 people max