Whether you’re picking up a club for the first time or chasing lower scores, lessons at Silver Lake are built around one simple belief: progress over perfection.
Our instruction program is welcoming, personal, and built for real people — not cookie-cutter swings. Every lesson starts with listening, laughter, and a clear plan that fits you.
If you have already purchased lessons, you can book with Austin by clicking that specific button below.
A Teaching Philosophy That Meets You Where You Are
Golf can be intimidating. We get that.
That’s why our lessons are designed to feel approachable, encouraging, and human from the very first swing.
You won’t be rushed. You won’t be talked down to. And you’ll never be asked to swing like someone you’re not.
Lessons are:
- Student-led and goal-driven
- Adapted for injuries, age, and experience
- Built with humor, games, and momentum
- Focused on confidence as much as technique
Most importantly — we genuinely care about your progress and your experience.
Austin Wilson
Austin Wilson brings a rare balance of high-level competitive experience and genuinely human coaching to every lesson he leads.
Born and raised in the South Suburbs, Austin began playing — and competing — in golf at a young age. That early exposure shaped not only his technical understanding of the game, but also his belief that great instruction must adapt to the person, not the other way around.
Experience That Spans Every Level of the Game
Austin has led instruction across a wide range of environments, from local Park District camps to elite competitive stages. His coaching background includes:
- Local Park District programs and junior development camps
- High school and collegiate-level athletes
- Competitive amateurs and mini tour professionals
Because of that range, Austin is equally comfortable helping a first-time golfer feel confident as he is refining the details for players competing at the highest amateur and professional levels.
Competitive Pedigree, Grounded Approach
Austin’s students have gone on to compete and succeed at the highest levels of regional and national golf, including:
NCAA and NAIA collegiate golfers
- IHSA State Championship qualifiers
- Sectional medalists
- Illinois Open qualifiers
- Illinois Amateur qualifiers
- Mini Tour professionals
While that competitive résumé matters, Austin is quick to remind students that success looks different for everyone. His philosophy centers on progress over perfection — building consistency, confidence, and clarity at every stage of development.
Caterina (Nina) Calabria
Nina brings extensive competitive experience and a passion for teaching to players of all skill levels.
Meet Nina, an Elementary Education major and Captain of the North Central College Women’s Golf Team, who brings a wealth of elite competitive experience to the course as an NCAA Tournament Champion, a Second Team All-CCIW selection, and a frequent Top-10 and Top-20 collegiate finisher. Combining a deep competitive background with a pedagogical foundation, she is deeply passionate about teaching kids and beginner golfers. Her coaching is dedicated to building confidence, developing solid fundamentals, and, above all, making the game of golf genuinely enjoyable for players of all skill levels.
Experience That Spans Every Level of the Game
Caterina “Nina” Calabria is a dedicated Golf Coach at Silver Lake Country Club who pairs an elite competitive background with a strong foundational knowledge of the game. Her qualifications and coaching focus include:
- Collegiate Leader: Captain of the North Central College Women’s Golf
- NCAA Tournament Champion
- Multiple Top-10 and Top-20 collegiate finishes
Nina’s impact for the future
Nina focuses on several sectors of golf coaching at Silver Lake Country Club. Some of her passions for instruction include:
- Teaching kids and beginner golfers
- Builds player confidence
- Mastering fundamentals
Lesson Options
Private Golf Lessons
(1-on-1)
Ideal for:
- Beginners getting started the right way
- Players preparing for an outing, trip, or event
- Golfers who’ve “caught the bug” and want real improvement
Private lessons are fully customized — from fundamentals to advanced shot-making — and can include on-course or playing lessons for real-world practice and course management.
Group Lessons
Perfect for:
- Friends, couples, or families learning together
- Beginners who prefer a social, low-pressure setting
Group lessons keep things fun, supportive, and motivating — with everyone working toward shared goals while learning at their own pace.
Clinics & Corporate Outings
Clinics range from:
- Relaxed networking events and team outings
- Social golf experiences for private groups
- Skill-specific clinics (wedges, short game, scoring shots)
These sessions blend instruction with energy — great for businesses, organizations, and friend groups looking to connect through golf.
Confidence Beyond the Lesson
We don’t just teach — we help you practice with purpose.
Every student receives:
Custom practice plans
Clear drills you know how and why to do
Guidance that removes self-consciousness on the range
Think of it like having a personal trainer for your golf game — so you’re never guessing.
Frequently Asked Questions
I’m nervous and new — do I belong here?
Absolutely. Many of our students start later in life or are brand new to the game. Lessons are judgment-free, supportive, and designed to help you feel comfortable from the start.
What progress will I notice first?
Beginners often feel better contact almost immediately. Intermediate players see straighter ball flights. Advanced players notice consistency, distance, and lower scores.
Are lessons only for serious golfers?
Not at all. Whether your goal is improvement or simply having more fun, lessons are tailored to what you want from the game.
Do you offer on-course lessons?
Yes. We offer playing and on-course lessons to help with strategy, confidence, and real-game situations — including those shots or holes you dread most.