Nick Wolf is a dedicated physical education teacher in Alameda and the former Alameda High Men’s and Women's Golf team coach. His passion for coaching runs deep, and he channels this enthusiasm into his work, leading Corica’s Park’s year-round Sundays On The Green golf clinics and annual fall season Middle School Golf League (a partnership with Do Good Sports Club). Both programs are provided completely free of cost by Greenway Golf to increase access to the game.
Nick’s journey into coaching began at The First Tee of San Francisco at Harding Park, where he worked from 2011-2016 running summer camps and after-school programs. His extensive experience and genuine love for the game make him an exceptional mentor to Alameda youth.
Read on to learn more about Nick, his journey into golf, and what coaching Corica Park’s youth programs means to him.
Journey into Golf
Q: When were you first introduced to golf?
A: I first picked up golf in college when I got a job in player services at Birnam Wood Country Club in Montecito, CA. Golf has always been more than a sport to me; it’s a way to connect with others and a source of mindfulness and positivity.
Q: What’s your personal favorite golfing moment?
A: I’ve never had a hole-in-one, but I holed out for eagle from 130 yards on hole 15 at Stanford!
Q: What do you think are the biggest life lessons that golf teaches?
A: Perseverance and integrity.
Q: What are three words to describe the impact of golf in your life?
A: Community. Positivity. Mindfulness.
Nurturing Lifelong Golfers
Nick's love for junior golf is palpable. He appreciates the challenges golf presents and is always excited to see junior players invest the time and energy required to improve. His commitment to the sport and the youth he mentors is evident in every interaction.
Q: What has it meant to you to lead Corica Park's free youth programs? What is most rewarding about it?
A: It is really fun to watch kids discover a new sport. I like to imagine the junior players picking up golf as a sport they can play for a very long time. A goal I have for our kids is to build skills where they can play with their parents, grandparents, and family out on the golf course as they grow into adults.
Q: What is the biggest challenge?
A: Honestly, the unpredictability of the weather for the middle school program! We have rain-outs more frequently than I would like.
Q: What do you think the impact of this program is on youth and growing the game?
A: Golf can be intimidating for someone who has never spent time at a golf course. I think our program is making the sport less intimidating. Our fun, casual environment is welcoming to beginners, creating a greater likelihood that they will stick with it and develop a lasting love of the game.
Q: How does being an educator guide your coaching and mentorship philosophy?
A: I use a lot of my classroom management procedures with our junior groups. I have high expectations in terms of courtesy and golf etiquette.
Q: Can you share a favorite memory or a personal student story that stays with you?
A: It is hard to pick just one memory. It’s always fun to see a kid drain a long putt or hit the green in regulation out on the course. It actually happens more often than you’d expect.
Nick’s dedication to fostering a welcoming and encouraging environment for young golfers is truly inspiring. His work ensures that the next generation can enjoy and appreciate the game, carrying its lessons of perseverance and integrity throughout their lives. Thank you for all you do, Nick!