Golf Instruction

Learn from the Best. Play Your Best.

Sharpen Your Skills with Expert Instruction

Whether you’re new to the game or looking to fine-tune your swing, professional instruction at Blue Heron Golf Club will help you play your best. With personalized coaching and proven techniques, we’ll help you build confidence, improve consistency, and take your game to the next level.

Golf pro

Darlene Sommer 

Private lessons available - Contact the pro shop at (315) 986-5888 for more information and to sign up.

Darlene Sommer has been a Class A Member of the LPGA since 1981, 39 of those years as a Head Golf Professional. She is a multiple award-winning teacher, developing successful Junior Programs, which has launched over 25 of her students into professional golf careers. She designed and built a 9-hole addition to Hillendale Golf Course in Ithaca as well as designed a 3-D Golf Learning Center in Rochester called Play Better Golf.

 

In 1998, she was awarded the LPGA Northeast Section “Teacher of the Year. From 1997 to 2004 she was listed as one of the “Top 50 Teachers” in the US by Golf for Women Magazine. Starting in 2001 to 2008 she was seen on both Golf Digest Magazine and Golf Magazines’ Top Instructor’s list which was published annually in their magazines.

 

In 1989 she became the annual LPGA Coordinator for the LPGA Junior Clinics for the LPGA Corning Classic and the Rochester International/LPGA Championship in Rochester introducing thousands of Juniors to the game. A title she held until both tournaments ended in 2009 and 2014. For several years beginning in 2011, she also co-hosted a weekly Radio Golf Talk show called “The Golf Tee’ with Rick Woodson and Terry Quinn.

 

At Play Better Golf, a 5-bay learning center, Darlene brought her teaching skills to Rochester training her students using 3D Golf Biomechanics and kinetic motion training. She is both K-Vest and TPI Certified. She developed an intense "Winter Conditioning Program" using the K-Vest which keeps her students in golf shape during the off season, especially training local High School golfers to prepare them for their golf season.

 

For 16 years, starting in 2009, Darlene was the Head Golf Professional / General Manager at Champion Hills Country Club in Victor NY. She started when the course was still under construction, so she had to build a new golf operation and membership from scratch. With her extensive experience in management of golf operations and bar and restaurant services she was instrumental in developing Champion Hills into one of the Rochester area's favorite courses.

 

Because of her continued passion for teaching, Darlene was also able to create a year-round learning center at Champion Hills using the K-Vest and golf biomechanics with kinetic motion training.

 

She remains passionate about teaching and continues to offer Individual lessons, Group Classes , Junior Programs, along with her K-Vest training today.

A stick figure is holding a golf club on a white background.

Perfect Your Swing

Get personalized instruction tailored to your skill level. Whether you're fixing a slice or fine-tuning your short game, professional coaching helps you build a more consistent, confident swing.

A black and white drawing of a flag on a golf course.

Lower Your Scores

Improve your course strategy, shot selection, and overall performance. With expert guidance, you'll learn how to play smarter and shave strokes off your game.

A black and white drawing of a golf ball on a tee.

Enjoy the Game More

Golf is more fun when you’re playing well! With the right techniques and a little coaching, you'll gain confidence, reduce frustration, and make the most of every round at Blue Heron.

Grilled steak with green sauce, served on a bed of greens, alongside mashed potatoes and gravy.

Sunday & Monday Night Special

Golf. Dine. Unwind.

Join us Sunday or Monday nights for the ultimate golf-and-dining deal—perfect for couples or foursomes! Tee off at 4 PM, play 9 holes, enjoy a drink and an appetizer or dessert… and we’ll treat you to a free entrée (up to $39 value).

Here’s how it works:

Dessert on white plate: round pastry with ice cream and caramel drizzle.
Golf bag with clubs.

Play 9 holes after 4 PM – $35

Tall glass of iced beverage with lemon slice and straw.

Buy a drink – starting at $4

Skewers on a tray.

Choose an appetizer or dessert – starting at $7

A serving dish with an open lid, revealing food.

Get a FREE dinner entrée of your choice!

Whether you're here for the golf, the food, or the company—you’ll love this deal. No exceptions. Every week. Bring a friend and enjoy the savings.

The Ballroom at Windward Lake logo is white

Plan Your Perfect Event

At The Ballroom at Windward Lake, we bring the same dedication to excellence that has made The Ballroom at Carey Lake a trusted name in unforgettable celebrations. Every detail is crafted with care, ensuring your event is as seamless as it is stunning. From intimate gatherings to milestone moments, we’re committed to creating experiences that are elegant, effortless, and truly memorable.