Teaching Professionals
John Serhan
Head Teaching Professional
Certified PGA Professional Advanced in Coaching
John Serhan is regarded as one of Australia’s leading golf coaches, with two of his current players ranked inside the top twenty on the Australian and Asian tours. Since turning professional in 1997, John has built a reputation for excellence, being nominated multiple times as Teaching Professional of the Year and winning the NSW PGA Coach of the Year in 2010. He has also served as a Golf Australia National Home Coach, contributed to Golf NSW’s High Performance Program, and led the NSW State Men’s Team as coach in 2016.
John takes a holistic approach to coaching, addressing the technical, tactical, physical, and mental aspects of the game. He is proficient with modern technology, including TrackMan ball flight analysis, SAM Putt Lab stroke mechanics, and video/computer-based analysis.
Over his career, John has guided numerous players to professional and amateur success. Among his coaching achievements are working with Travis Smyth (Australian Amateur Runner-Up 2016), Sarah Kemp (LPGA and LET Tour professional), Anthony Summers (NSW PGA Coach of the Year nominee and multiple PGA event winner), and Matt Stieger (2012 PGA Rookie of the Year and 2013 NSW PGA Champion). His expertise has also shaped the success of Sydney Pennant Golf, producing multiple pennant flags across junior and senior levels.
As a player, John himself recorded several top-10 finishes on the Von Nida Tour, won multiple NSW Pro-Am events, and consistently ranked inside the top 20 on the NSW PGA Order of Merit (1999–2004). He also holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Newcastle.
+61 (04)11 570 540
Head Professional
Neil Sarkies
Certified PGA Professional
Neil Sarkies has been a PGA Professional since 2000 and brings a wealth of playing and coaching experience to St. Michael’s Golf Club. Over a 15-year career on the Australian PGA Tour, including a season on the Japanese PGA Tour in 2011, Neil established himself as a consistent and respected performer, winning more than 40 professional events. Among his career highlights are winning the 2013 NSW Order of Merit and competing at the highest levels of Australian and international golf.
As Head Professional at St. Michael’s, Neil’s expertise extends well beyond playing. He is highly skilled in coaching players from beginners to elite level, as well as club fitting, equipment repairs, competition management, and junior development programs. His deep knowledge of the Rules of Golf further strengthens his leadership role at the Club.
Neil began his golf journey at Bonnie Doon Golf Club, representing the Major Pennants Team and the NSW Colts Team as an amateur before embarking on his professional career. His combination of competitive success, technical knowledge, and passion for player development make him a cornerstone of the Club’s golfing program.
0410 638 069