Sunday, 23 November 2008
John Billiter, PGA Print E-mail
First Assistant Golf Professional
Golf Academy Teaching Professional
Special Events & Outings Coordinator john_03_08.jpg

John joined us after several years of seasonal employment at Bittersweet Golf Club in Gurnee Illinois. His experience with Bittersweet includes both golf shop and driving range management along with several responsibilities relating to guest services. In completing his fifth year at Sportsman's, he feels that he has found a great home to continuing his development as a PGA Professional.

While earning a Bachelor in Arts degree in Individual Studies of Business, John enjoyed 4 successful years of Division 1 golf at Western Illinois University. Along with academic achievement, John was awarded “1st Team All Conference” honors along with Mid-Continent Conference “Newcomer of the Year” in 2002. He was also recognized by Western Illinois University with a Senior Leadership Award for his efforts in 2004. John is very proud of his association with the Western Illinois golf program and he has elevated his caliber of play as a competitor within the IPGA (Illinois Professional Golfers' Association).

2008 was a special year for John, returning to Sportsman’s for a fifth season as an assistant golf professional.  After being elected to PGA membership in February, John enjoyed a successful tournament schedule, highlighted by a win at the IPGA Assistant’s Stroke Play held at Medinah Country Club. 

As an instructor within the Northbrook Golf academy, John has been very involved with instruction of private golf lessons, group clinics, and junior golf programs. He has played a key role in the creation of our Junior Golf Development Series as well as the Northbrook Junior Players League (Anetsberger G.C.).

Teaching Philosophy:

"The effectiveness in building a better golf game works from the hole-back. My player development program begins with the short game and progresses through the intricacies of the full swing and course management. I am determined not to fix your swing, but to build your game. I believe in concepts of simplicity, creating a repeatable swing with the fewest moving parts. With a focus on the simple fundamentals of putting, chipping, the full swing, and the mental game, you will develop the skills that are necessary for improvement. Through my coaching, and your dedication, we will work together to reach your true golf potential."

John's ultimate goal is to become a recognized and respected golf instructor, playing competitor, and business professional within the PGA of America. John currently resides in Gurnee Illinois with his wife Robin and children Camden (14) and Gabrielle (9).

John can be reached through the Sportsman's Country Club golf shop at (847) 291.2351, ext. 126, and at j This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it . Students may schedule lessons with him through the Northbrook Golf Academy, or by contacting him directly at cellular number (847) 361.8983.