BGA Player Pathway for Adults
A clear roadmap from first swing to confident golfer
At the Baltimore Golf Academy, our Player Pathway is designed to help golfers learn, grow, and stay engaged—without pressure and while having fun. Players progress through foundational levels, skill-building modules, and on-course experiences at a pace that fits their goals and schedule.
The Baltimore Golf Academy operates out of Pine Ridge Golf Course in Lutherville, MD on the scenic Loch Raven Reservoir.
NEW GOLFERS FOUNDATION
New Golfers or Players returning after a long break
Level 1 – Intro to Golf
For brand-new golfers or those returning to the game
Focus: Fundamentals, basic swing skills, short game, and learning to practice We provide equipment if needed. Our Club Buyers Guide will help you if you need to purchase equipment. Our Fundamentals Guide will help you remember what you learned.
Level 1.5 – On-Course for New Players
The bridge from practice to play
Focus: Playing holes, etiquette, rules basics, pace of play, and confidence on the course
Skills Building Modules-Info TBA
ADVANCED
Players who have played 10 rounds or more and have a year or more experience
Level 2 – Skill Integration
Focus: Consistency, distance control, developing power,
Level 2.5 – On-Course Strategy
Focus: Shot selection, managing misses, course management, smarter scoring
Level 3 – Performance & Refinement
Focus: Advanced shot-making, distance optimization, confidence under pressure
Skills Building Modules-Info TBA
YOUR PATH. YOUR PACE.
There is no single “right order” once you have moved through Level 1
Players may take skill building modules as needed, blend group programs with private lessons, and take On Course Level 1.5 when they’re ready.
Our goals for you:
*Clear progression
*Enjoy learning in a friendly, supportive environment
* Lifelong engagement with the game
SKILL BUILDING MODULES
Players may take modules in any order after Level 1 or have been playing for a year or more.
Foundational Skills
Reinforcing Fundamentals
Learning How Far You Hit Your Clubs (Toptracer Technology)
Hybrids, Fairway Woods & Driver
Short Game & Scoring
Chipping
Pitching
Bunker Fundamentals
Reading Greens & Learning to 2-Putt
Real-World Golf Skills
Playing from the Grass (Fairway, rough)
Playing from Uneven Lies
Course Awareness & Shot Selection (coming soon)
Pre-Shot Routine & Decision-Making (coming soon)
PRIVATE LESSONS
Available at every stage of the pathway
Private lessons provide:
Personalized coaching and swing analysis
Customized practice plans
Faster improvement in specific areas
Support for leagues, events, and competition
Private coaching may be combined with any level or module
Additional Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do BGA Classes meet?
BGA Practice Area-located at the far right hand side of the driving range as you are looking out. You can park on the grass adjacent to the BGA Area.
Pine Ridge Driving Range-Covered area, the main driving range. You can park in the lot across from the driving range.
Putting Green-There are two putting greens, one in front of the Club House adjacent to the first tee, and one next to the parking lot.
Your Professional will tell you which location to meet for your class or lesson.
Private Lessons or a Class?
Your schedule and preference for how much attention you need will also play a part in your decision. If you are in a rut or trying to break a bad habit, we recommend private lessons. Learn more about private instruction with our LPGA, PGA and USGTF instructors.
Should I take a Level 1.0 or Level 2.0 class?
If you are brand new to the game or haven't played in a very long time, we recommend Level 1.0. We recommend Level 2.0 if you have some experience and have played on the course with some regularity
Need To Borrow Clubs?
Golf clubs will be provided at no charge for your use during classes. Please let us know what you need when you register. Borrow clubs at the Pine Ridge Driving Range when you come to practice.
Where do I pay for my clinic/lesson?
Online payment is required to complete registration for classes and clinics. Payment for private instruction may also be made online, or you may pay in the pro shop at Pine Ridge. Please discuss payment with your instructor. We accept: Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and checks made payable to BMGC (Baltimore Municipal Golf Corp) Identification is required when paying by check.
How Do I Reschedule My Class?
Please check our Cancellation and Rescheduling Page for more information.
What about weather cancellations?
In the event of inclement weather, classes may need to be rescheduled. We will attempt to contact you via text, email or phone in the event of a weather cancellation. Please make sure to provide up to date contact information when you register for instruction. If light rain, we conduct classes under the BGA covered area. Sometimes severe weather pops up and we do not have time to alert everyone-in that case please use your best judgement. We do not teach golf in electrical storms. Text 443-414-2288- Coach J will do her best to assist you.
What should I wear?
Dress comfortably. We do not have a dress code at Pine Ridge but there are many golf facilities in our area that do. Get into the habit of checking prior to playing to avoid any issues with attire. Golf shoes, they are helpful but you can play in flat-soled, stable athletic shoes. Wearing a golf glove on your lead hand (the one closest to the target) will help with your grip, and reduce the chance of getting blisters. Gloves usually cost between $12.00 and $20.00 and are a worthwhile investment.
Where can I practice?
Head to Pine Ridge’s award winning driving range to work on your form and swing mechanics. Purchase Range Ball Bonus Cards here. Forest Park has a short range. There are short game practice facilities at all 5 BMGC courses and you can use the putting greens for free! Our BGA Practice Area is only for classes or lessons.
Does BGA sell gift cards?
Yes, you can Give the Gift of Golf with the Classic Five Gift Card. Cards can be used at all Classic Five Golf Courses to purchase Baltimore Golf Academy classes, private golf lessons, pay green fees and to pay for food, beverages and all merchandise sold at the golf courses. Purchase online here.
How Do I Pay for my Class/Lesson with a Gift Card?
Please contact Coach J 443-414-2288 CoachJGolf@gmail.com and let her know the class you would like to enroll in. Sorry, our system does not allow for gift card payment online.
What's the best way to start playing golf?
Sign up for a class! Small group instruction is usually best. The most important thing in the beginning is to build a solid fundamental foundation. Our instructors will help you build your foundation and keep you encouraged so you can quickly develop your skills as a golfer.
How long should it take a beginner to get out on the course?
There are some variables but if you keep a positive attitude, follow your instructor’s advice, and take some time to practice each week you should be able to get out and play with friends after 8 hours of group classes that include instruction in basic golf etiquette and speed of play.
What about buying equipment?
Our pro shop at Pine Ridge is fully stocked and our BGA students receive a 10% discount on products. If we don’t have it, we can usually order it for you.
Our “New Golfers” equipment includes full sets from Mizuno, Wilson and Tour Edge.
Our “Experienced Golfers” can enjoy a club Fitting with a club rep or one of our professional staff members by appointment.
Mizuno, TaylorMade, Callaway, PING, Titleist and we can special order for you.
Junior Sets-we offer a 10% discount on US Kids, Wilson, Tour Edge. Check with any of our staff members to make sure your junior is fit into the correct size before purchasing.
