Lessons with Gil have been truly transformative for my golf game. Unlike most coaches, Gil takes a unique approach that goes beyond just swing mechanics. If you're serious about improving, he teaches you how to practice like a pro--with engaging drills, fun games, and a strong focus on the mental side of the game. Since training with Gil, I've seen consistent improvement in my performance every week. His coaching not only helps refine technique but also builds confidence and strategic thinking on the course. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player looking to level up, I can't recommend Gil highly enough--10/10 for anyone serious about learning the game! read more

Very poor customer service. I had purchased a golf gift certificate for my husband towards the end of last May for Father's day. He, unfortunately, had to have unexpected life-threatening surgery and was out of commission for a bit due to this. I reached out to RJ this week since he was the instructor listed on the gift certificate to see when we can schedule golf lessons and then I received a call from Gil asking why I was reaching out to RJ and what he had to do with any of this. He hardly gave me a chance to speak and then he said that the gift certificate is expired and that RJ and Gil have retired. He didn't even give me a chance to explain what had happened or suggest whether there was anyone else that could provide the lessons. He then hung up in a hurry stating the certificate is expired and that he only provided service from November - April anyway. Maybe in upcoming November he can do something for us is what he suggested. Very poor, disappointing service. He seemed to have enough time on his hands last May when it came to accepting my $210 for the gift certificate. If he was kind, empathetic, and allowed me a moment to speak, I would understand his point. Unfortunately, this was not the case. I hope the rest of the golf community is not as cut-throat as this group. read more

My husband and I just finished up a couples golf lesson with Gil and he was PHENOMENAL. His whole mentality and approach to golf is easy to follow and very informative. He knows exactly when to give you guidance and when to encourage you. He helped my husband with his driver slice and us with consistency and stance. It was our first lesson with him and it definitely won't be our last! read more

Before taking lessons with Gil, I got stuck with shooting in the mid-80's and loss about 10-12 yards for my irons that I've been using a 6-hybrid for yardage as low as 130. Just no confidence in my shots. I had my lessons and he explained to me the reason for the lack of distance, provided corrections and drills to practice. And I did take heed and as silly as some of them are (like facing backwards and hitting the ball to correct my lack of hand turn) and didn't care when others in the range are looking at me and giving me the WTH look. Well, after just 4 solid range practices, I went out this past Saturday in the 20mph windy conditions and shot 74. Not only the score but I had the confidence in every shot that I have not had in a long time. Gil got me to solidify my pre-shot routine and mindset that helped me execute the shots. Next up - Short game and putting lessons. Thanks Gil read more

After living out of state for two years we moved back to AZ. Needed to spend some time with my son so we headed out to hit some balls. Very impressed with what Golf with Gil looked like. We had been there before and this was 1000% better. Great job guys. Gil spent time with several people, he is very personable. Very great demeanor. His wife, i don't remember her name, was just as nice. Got to talking with Gil and we could tell how passionate he is. I dont really want lessons, but my son is sold on him. We'll have to see what the cost is. Which says a lot because my son is nervous. Oh yeah, the putting green is very good too. You should go to this place. It is a great time. read more

I'm not sure why my previous 1 star review was taken down, but alas here were my main points. FYI I took 1 lesson with Gil after purchasing a groupon. - He texts people asking for 5 Star reviews - During the lesson he came across as very unprofessional and hostile e.g. telling me I was taking too long while adjusting to a new grip - He taught my roughly 8 new drills, but before I could ever grasp a new drill he had me switch to another one. I wouldn't recommend Gil to anyone looking for lessons and I'd advise those viewing this to take a closer look at his 1 star reviews on this page. read more

Buyer beware. Gil is a good instructor but a horrible human being. Hopefully you don't have any unexpected hiccups in your schedule the day you're supposed to have your lesson of Gil will throw you to the wolves. This man does not have a professional bone in his body. I was supposed to have a lesson this morning at 9am but my wife became ill with food poisoning at 2am. I texted Gil at 6:30 this morning letting him know I wouldn't be able to make it because I have to take care of her and my 1 year old daughter for the day. 11 hours after I texted him he told me there is a 7 day cancellation policy and the only thing he can do for me is make me write a 5 Star review and pay him more money for another lesson instead of just rescheduling my current lesson. I told Gil I wouldn't do that so he proceeds to call me on the phone and berate me to tell me he doesn't want my business anymore. I paid for my lesson ahead of time as part of a 3 lesson deal on Groupon. So after the blackmail attempt I wrote a review on Groupon and Gil proceeds to tell me to grow up and stop acting like a child and to "be a man". I'm sorry but I think taking care of my family is "Being a Man". During my first lesson he was 20 min late, I get it, stuff happens and I let it slide. On my second lesson I spent the first 15 minutes playing a putting game with a student who's lesson wasn't even over yet, and Gil. Which to me isn't a private lesson and was a waste of valuable time for both students. At the end of that lesson Gil got in a yelling match on the chipping area with a gentleman who was there to just practice like everyone else. Today was the straw that broke the camel's back! TLDR: if you want a good golf instructor and don't mind being treated like garbage, Gil's your guy!!! read more

See all

I bought a Groupon for 3 golf lessons with Gil. I was able to schedule all of my lessons quickly (within the month). The lessons were great and helped me improve my short game. He was fun to work with and very knowledgeable. My son (5 years old) came with me to the driving range one night to the same course and Gil and his wife were kind enough to bring a kids club out to my son so that he could "practice" as well. This wasn't during one of my lessons. We had a great time. Gil clearly has a love for the game. He and his wife are great people and I would recommend his services. read more

Gil is the best instructor. I had only been playing for two months when I signed up for lessons. I am so glad I did and I only wish I had signed up before I even started playing. It's important to take lessons when you're first starting to learn the game of golf. It is far easier to learn the right way from the beginning than it is to correct your bad habits later on down the road. I was worried about hiring an instructor that would be stuffy or unfriendly. Gil is the opposite. He is positive and has a great sense of humor. Most importantly he is patient and will explain something in a different way if he senses you're not getting it. I am a perfectionist and sensitive to criticism and not once did Gil make me feel discouraged or put down in any way. He is very kind and uplifting. I purchased three lessons to start. During the first lesson we focused on driving, the second lesson focused on pitching/chipping, and the third lesson focused on putting. I think this is just right for those starting out in the game so they can get a good overview of it. Now that my initial lessons are over I will be scheduling monthly lessons with Gil to continue to improve my game. read more

My wife got me a 3 lesson package for Christmas! I was able to start soon after and as a beginner, Gil showed great patience with me and provided great tips for me to practice to get me started. Gil is a straight forward, funny guy that will make you feel at ease with wanting to learn a very difficult game. By no means am I able to join the PGA Tour, but I will take his tips and practice drills to heart until I'm able to add a few more lessons to really hone in on my game. Would recommend him to anyone that is ready to learn! read more

Just completed my first lesson with Gil. Respectful, fun, and invited guy to spend the morning with on the range. Helped me Incorporate some new drills into my routine, and broke down the practice session into a three part program. Being a 6 handicap golfer, I have never thought to much about the other aspects of the game. With Gil and my personal game, we are focusing on a pre shot routine, and the ball striking will follow. I will be purchasing more lessons! read more

I just finished with my first lesson with Gil. I am so glad I have more lessons scheduled. The two hour blew by quickly because it was so much fun. I am 66 years old and first played golf 8 years ago so I needed help in every phase of the game. Gil is the type of instructor who looks at the flaws and offers a relatively simple fix. He is a fun man, offering a relaxed and very positive demeanor. There is no doubt I will become a much improved golfer after I do the homework Gil recommends and further lessons. Practicing on the range or putting green was always boring and nonproductive for me. He has a system to turn practice into a fun, challenging and game improving system and a definite purpose as opposed to just repetitively hitting the ball, making the same mistakes over and over. I would give Gil 10 stars if allowed. Bob F. read more

My wife is a novice golfer and has taken a half dozen lessons with Gil this winter in Mesa. His enthusiasm and love for the game is quite contagious. He has a natural ability to analyze your play and make recommendations for improvements. Not only does he help work through issues you might have with the mechanics of your game but the mental aspects as well. If you are a beginner just learning the game or an advanced player wanting to improve; Gil is the instructor you need. He will make you the best player you can be given whatever level you may be. read more

Gil is the absolute man! Scheduling my 2 hour lesson was super easy and he was on time and we got right to business. We worked on some drills to get my driver right and I quickly began to see some improvements. He definitely knows what he is talking about and helped me start to reach my full potential on the golf course. As an added bonus his schedule was free after my lesson so we played 18 holes and he gave me some really helpful pointers throughout the round. He obviously knows what he is talking about because he shot a 67! I'll definitely be back for more! read more

Had fun !! Gil was able to quickly access my putting issues and provide recommendations. After lessons we hit the course and put what I learned to work. Great deal for the price. read more

UPDATE 5/30: When I received a private message from Gil saying "100% done with you" I thought that would be the last of our encounters with him, but then I see a comment he wrote on my previous review that not only is 100% false but also degrading. The sentence he wrote "there is a reason maybe playing golf for someone else besides yourself your fiancee... Is not the way to approach the game you must do it for yourself.... ". How unprofessional and rude to assume that I'm playing golf FOR my fiancé and not to play with him? Can I want to get better at a sport so that we can play together? Apparently not according to Gil. Also, I know for a fact he has issued more than one refund in 10 years as he called to issue one immediately for my fiancé's mom when HE made a scheduling error & called her to yell at her. And this was recent (January). So that statement was false. As far as my "bad attitude", that is completely not true. Did I want to yell at him and give him attitude for becoming agitated with me because he told me to just go in the corner and hit the bag for a while because I couldn't keep my wrist straight? Absolutely. But did I? No, of course not. I would never do that with my fiancé there who enjoyed his first lesson and planned to go back. And on top of that I'd like to note... I rarely write a bad or negative review (look at my page if you don't believe me). So to be this heated in a review is not something I like to do & hopefully will save some beginners (or anyone) from pursuing a golf lesson with Gil. He has some personality issues he needs to work out first. Lastly, in regards to the comment about our 'difficult' schedule and inability to communicate, he has it wrong on two accounts 1) I didn't schedule with him because he was not responsive to me, so my fiancé had to do all of the scheduling and 2) He is the one who needs to work on his communication and organization. We purchased these lessons assuming we would be able to use them on Friday, Saturday or Sunday as the Groupon did not mention date restrictions, we figured this would not be a problem. We also knew we would be busy for a few months after the purchase, but the Groupon had a 6-month expiration timeframe so again we figured that if the deal was valid for 6 months lessons did not have to be scheduled right away. Apparently that's unacceptable to him. At our initial contact and introduction we gave Gil our schedule, my fiancé happened to be able to attend an open time slot the next day so he went to the lesson. He was told we would be scheduling everything else at that time. After the lesson, they had one back and forth through texts, everything was scheduled out over a 6-week period. Then, as our first lesson date approached, my fiancé texted Gil for confirmation of the scheduled time, it turned out we were not on his calendar. So we had to pick a new date. Due to our conflicting schedules the next lesson was booked out 5 weeks from our discussion and the balance of the lessons were all within a month of the first lessons date. Then 3 weeks later we get a message from Gil asking us to confirm our lesson the next day- which wasn't a date we had agreed upon previously. We let him know we could not attend at that time, he mentioned he had us down for that day and then called to follow up. I am not sure how/why he had us booked that date but it was never one we had previously discussed. The next time we had contact from Gil it was the day before the lesson that lead to this review- the lesson he ended half way early to call Groupon because "this just wasn't going to work" and that I am "Unteachable" which, by the way, is a great thing to hear at your first ever lesson for anything. The best part of all of this comes a few weeks later, after he did not follow through on the refund- he contacts my fiancé and not only does he ask him to confirm our lesson for the next week he tries to reschedule it to another date. So this would be the 3rd time we had a lesson cancelled/rescheduled due to HIS scheduling issues yet I am the one who has an inability to communicate? We were always flexible in these cases, which based on a few other reviews we have read, is not something he is willing to be for clients. read more

I received instruction from Gil previously when he was at Ken McDonald in Tempe. He gave me a lot of good pointers and drills that I can use when I'm at the driving range. His instruction has definitely helped my pitching and I have continued to take lessons once in a while to dial things in. In my opinion this has been money well spent. read more

Being an absolute newbie to the game of golf, Gil has been phenomenal in taking his time to explain all aspects of the game and techniques. I've been super excited to continue with each and every lesson - so much that I leave with a crazy desire to go play immediately! I've recommended him to many people who are just starting because he is patient and very willing to answer any question (no matter how silly you may think it is). He's very friendly and extremely knowledgeable about his craft. I've even talked to people who are maybe a year or two into their golfing experience and they are thinking about taking lessons with him just to get some tips for a better game. I'm super elated to go on with my next lesson (my 5th lesson). read more

Initial interaction was good. Seemed to be friendly, outgoing and certainly knowledgeable. Upon purchase of a package, subsequent communication was not very friendly. Day of lesson was less than professional with Gil offering me a refund because he didn't want to waste his time teaching me because I didn't want to put in hours upon hours on the range. He's seemingly most intent on teaching people who live, breathe and eat golf. I told him up front that I had health issues (Parkinson's Disease) and that limits my time. I play for enjoyment only but have developed a swing issue that I just wanted him to look at. As a result of our interaction, I'm putting my clubs up for sale and walking away from the game. Don't need it that badly and will spend my time on pursuits that won't waste someone's time. read more

What can I say regarding Gil? The guy is great to work with and keeps it interesting. He knows how to teach and works to your strengths you already have to help mold your golf game. He has practice drills that he teaches which are awesome and if you truly practice them you will be a better golfer hands down. I opted for three lessons and will def get a few more if for any reason just to golf with Gil and have a good time learning a few more techniques. He makes it look so easy and that's what my goal is as well but I need a lot of work. I don't believe there are many options out there that give you the true experience of bettering yourself and the game over Gil, at least not from the other instructors I spoke with or met prior. Sign up, it's a worth it!! read more

Please do yourself a favor and don't do any work with this person. He is rude and used foul language. No people skills and will rip you off. If you want proof i got plenty messages from him, where he uses aggressive foul language and calls you and threatens you. read more

Gil is great. He's able to blend technique improvements with improvements to the shot-making routine. Both are important! Gil's a student of the game. Most golfers don't emphasize the shot-making routine enough and he did a great job getting me in a better routine. Seems one of the easiest ways to improve! read more

Gil was great when my Goddaughter and I showed up for our one hour lesson! We had such a good time, and learned a few good skills! He's great at seeing your strengths and then working with them. Thanks Gill! Karen and Dom read more

I had a partner lesson with a friend and we had a blast! She's played golf before but I never have. Gil spent time going over the basics and spent time coaching us individually. By the end of the lesson, I was surprised at how much I had learned. We are both so excited to practice our drills and get back out on the course. Both of us had always wanted to take lessons but were intimidated by the idea. I'm so happy we took our lessons with Gil! We will absolutely be back. read more

Had my first lesson with Gil today! While I have had golf lessons in the past, I found Gil's school of thought to be different and amazing. His teaching offers not only the physical aspect, but with the mental aspect as well. He offers a holistic approach to golf rather than just your mechanics. He taught me a routine/practice that I never thought about before walking up to my ball. It's something I can take with me to every practice. I can now go to the range with a bucket of balls and can think about every swing with my practice routine in mind and just hitting the ball with no game plan. Greenfield Golf Course is a bit further from my house, but it's worth driving to. He is worth the drive and his fees are far more reasonable. You will get so much more for your money. I recommend working with Gil to better your game and your handicap. read more

I've taken 5 lessons with Gil and he's a very personable person and great instructor! As a beginner, it was great to learn various practices and drills I can do at home. He makes a lot of them into games where you can keep track of your score and how well you're doing. I feel that my lessons are very customized by what's going to help me improve the most. I now look forward to invitations to golf and can't wait to keep improving. read more

Gil is a great teacher because he brings a relaxed attitude to golf. He possesses the technical skills needed to be a great instructor but doesn't bring the pompous attitude that comes with most pros. This aspect is essential to instruction even though it has nothing to do with the physical aspects of the game, because golf is so mental. Once the student is in the right mental state, learning can begin. Gil provides technical instruction and practice games for each part of the sport - striking, chipping, and putting. The best part of Gil's teaching style is that students can continue to practice using the games learned in lessons long after the lessons are complete. read more

I can't compare Gil with other instructors since he is the only one I have every had, but I can say I will not be looking for another one. I came to this site when looking for someone to take lessons from and with all of his positive reviews, I figured I would give him a try. After completing my third of six lessons with him, I can say he deserves every positive review he has received. I am a beginner and play like a beginner. He is incredibly patient and has the ability to explain things in a way I understand. What's cool to see is when I'm not getting something, he has so many different ways to get you where you need to be. He has the ability to break things down in to simple achievable parts so I don't get overwhelmed trying to do too much at once. One of my favorite things about the lessons thus far is he teaches you how to practice on your own. He isn't trying to drag this process on indefinitely so he can keep charging you. He teaches the fundamentals and ways to work on those things yourself. If you don't practice you don't get better, makes sense to me. Other than lessons, he has helped with the selection of clubs that might work better for me. He has also re-gripped my clubs for a price that you won't find anywhere else. He is a great resource. He is well connected in the golf community and has access to equipment and facilities at prices that I couldn't get on my own. Regardless of your level of play, if you are looking for someone to take lessons from reach out to Gil. You will know you made the right choice within 5 minutes of meeting him. read more

If you're trying to better your golf game, I highly recommend Gil. He's a very knowledgeable and trustworthy golf instructor. I'm visiting from California and took my first lesson with him last month, and plan to schedule another one this week. Very cool guy, always caring about his customers and going the extra mile to build relationships with them. The Greenfield Lakes driving range is also one of the nicest I've been to. GREAT chipping and putting green as well. read more

Just had my second golf lesson with Gil and he truly is a fantastic teacher. I'm a novice golfer that struggles with all aspects of the game. Especially driving off the tee! Gil broke down my swing, showed me what I was doing wrong and gave me the knowledge. Before the lesson was even over Gil had me consistently driving 250+plus yards finding the fairway. I couldn't be happier and can't wait to schedule my third lesson. read more

I just took a lesson with Gil and it was excellent. He works with the swing and equipment you have and gives you great drills to practice on your own. Highly recommended! Matt T read more

I just had my first lesson with Gil last week, and in just 2 short hours Gil showed me stuff I had never seen 20 years of being on a course. Each lesson he offers is custom for each golfer and he tells you right up front, he is not going to change your swing, unless you want to of course. If highly recommend Gil for all experience levels because he has an abundance to offer and is just fun to talk to, let alone learn from. He is easy to get ahold of, I've literally called, text, and email him with almost immediate response. Go hit the links with Gil, and you will not be disappointed. read more

Gil is a wonderful teacher who not only focuses on your golf swing, he emphasizes the mental aspect of the game as well. He stresses that you shouldn't have a negative attitude because that becomes self-defeating. If you make a bad shot -- accept it and get to the next shot. By spending time on the big clubs (driver, etc.) as well as the short game (chipping, putting), Gil gives you all the tools you need to shave strokes off your game. Now, all that is left to do is practice, practice, practice! read more

My husband and I were visiting Scottsdale for a weekend and we wanted to take a lesson. My husband's been golfing for a while, and I wanted to learn a few tips so I could eventually join him. Gil is a phenomenal teacher. He's patient, explains everything in detail, and his videos are helpful to show you exactly what you're doing and how you can improve. The next time we come to town, we would absolutely take another lesson from Gil. Thank you! read more

My experience working with Gil was top notch. He is patient and is able to adapt his teaching style to each student. I'm a complete golf novice so Gil helped me assemble a set of clubs that fit me and worked with my swing. Scheduling and communication were a breeze. Gil is relatable and fun to work with, I always looked forward to my lessons. He is a true professional that knows his stuff. read more

I decided this year after golfing a total of 5 times ever, I was going to take some lessons to learn the basics and do my best to progress and become better at the game. I've taken 3 lessons with Gil Benavidez and purchased a six, 90 minute session package. They been great, he has given me a ton of information, I like his teaching methods. For beginners, he explains what to do, gives you an example and then has you practice. He also gives you multiple resources, practice tools, single and double player warm ups/games and tips. I saw some not so good reviews from 2018. I have never had that issue, we have communicated and set up rescheduling, we negotiated package pricing, he is almost always willing to go over the lesson time to make sure you get a good grasp of that days lesson. He wants you to practice to become better and expects it but gives you plenty of material to accomplish the task. I mean all and all the guy just seems to have a lot of love for the game. I can't wait to finish my lessons up with Gil. I like his approach, he makes the game fun and conversation is always entertaining. I would recommend Golf with Gil and look forward to getting more time in on the course. read more

Gil is awesome! Have had a couple of great lessons with Gil so far. I would definitely recommend him to beginners like myself trying to get a good start on improving their game. Gil is friendly, fun and most importantly very knowledgeable. Gil provides great tips and exercises to practice as well as awesome advice on keeping practicing itself as fun as the game of golf. Thanks Gil read more

One of the best instructors I've ever had! So my buddy and I decided to get golf lessons together because, well, we stink. LOL! I have had 5 different instructors in AZ, and had marginal success in terms of getting improvement. I used good old Yelp to find one near our offices and we found Gil. And the reviews were totally right! He had us hitting BACKWARDS better than we did forwards. He has a great approach and utilizes a lot of aids for drills and sports psychology which is tremendously helpful. We have signed up for 6, two hour lessons and I am halfway through and thinking I will sign up for more. This has been the first time I feel like someone is really helping me dial in on the weaknesses of my game and just through three lessons I already have more confidence in the short game (where we started learning) and have seen the instruction pay off in actual strokes. We have a long way to go still, but I can say without a doubt Gil is really one of the best. He even re-gripped our clubs, and fixed one of my clubs where the head came undone (pro tip from Gil: do NOT leave your clubs in the garage or in your car because in this heat the glue breaks down and the heads can come loose like mine did). Stop getting dumb groupons and hitting off the PGA store fake turf into a computer like I did, and get out and Golf with Gil! read more