Early Career and Education: Brian Manzella's journey towards the top of the golf instruction world was anything but conventional. A self-taught golfer who focused on football during his high school years, Manzella's game developed quickly in college where the earned a scholarship at the University of New Orleans, captioning thee team his senior season.

Brian began teaching golf at the remarkably young age of 20. His first significant role was at New Orleans City Park, where he inherited a junior golf program in need of revival. Through innovative teaching methods and sheer enthusiasm, he transformed a ragtag junior program into one of national recognition, setting the stage for his future in golf instruction. This early experience not only showcased his teaching acumen but also his ability to inspire and elevate young golfers, a theme that would continue throughout his career.


Always looking for the best information available, his study of the book The Golfing Machine led to his becoming the protege of renowned instructor Ben Doyle. This mentorship was pivotal, blending traditional teaching methods with modern insights.


Teaching Philosophy: Manzella's approach to golf instruction is as unique as his personality. He's known for his ability to demystify the complex mechanics of the golf swing through humor, direct scientific explanations, and by crafting personalized drills and custom "swing patterns" for each student. His philosophy isn't about fitting golfers into a mold but about finding what works best for each individual player.


Career Milestones:

• PGA Recognition: A 35-year PGA Member, Brian has been recognized as the PGA Gulf States Section Teacher of the Year in 2013 and previously in 2003 for the PGA Kentucky Section.
• Golf Digest and Golf Magazine: He has consistently been ranked among the top golf instructors in the U.S., appearing on the Golf Digest's 50 Best Teachers list for 2024-2025 at the 13th spot, and has been a seven-time Golf Magazine Top 100 Teacher.

Innovations in Golf Instruction:

• Project 1.68: Having reached the pinnacle of certification with The Golfing Machine (G.S.E.D.), Brian Manzella embarked on his own path by founding Project 1.68. This initiative was crafted to bridge the gap between academic research on golf swing mechanics and its practical application in teaching. Project 1.68 became a landmark effort in the golf community, culminating in the organization of the first significant golf swing science seminars in the USA, known as the Anti-Summits. These events were groundbreaking, challenging conventional wisdom and marking the dawn of a new era in golf instruction where science took center stage.
• Jacobs 3D Initiative: Michael Jacobs, a close colleague and friend of Brian's, orchestrated several visits for both to study under Dr. Steven Nesbit, one of golf's foremost researchers. This collaboration, beginning in 2010, extended over months, resulting in a transformative partnership. Together, Jacobs and Nesbit developed Jacobs 3D, now a renowned software for golf swing analysis focusing on kinetics. Manzella took on the role of Director of Instruction, using his global influence to advance the teaching and understanding of golf swing mechanics, thus revolutionizing how golf instruction is approached.

Publications and Media Presence: Brian has not only impacted golfers on the range but also through his contributions to golf literature. Notable works include a cover story in Golf Magazine titled "The Pull Back, Run Up and Jump" and a feature in Golf Digest on "The Science of Smash." His ability to communicate complex ideas has made him a sought-after speaker and educator. Brian has authored dozens of print articles and hundreds of web features. He is a frequent guest on top-rated golf podcasts and Sirius XM shows.


Teaching Teachers: A significant part of Brian's career involves mentoring other golf instructors. His Manzella Certified Instructor Program, once exclusive, now welcomes all golf professionals and enthusiasts, aiming to elevate the quality of golf instruction worldwide. This program has produced several PGA Section Teachers of the Year and other nationally-ranked instructors.

Technological Advocacy: One of the first to achieve the TrackMan Master status, Brian leverages technology to provide insights into swing mechanics, promoting the "new ball flight laws" which have revolutionized how instructors and players understand and improve ball flight.

Global Influence: Manzella's influence extends beyond the U.S., having shared his expertise in 23 states and 17 countries. His seminars and workshops are not just about teaching golf but about inspiring a scientific approach to the game's instruction.

Current Endeavors: As of 2024, Brian continues to innovate and teach, focusing on both individual golfers and the broader golf instruction community. His work with Jacobs 3D represents his ongoing commitment to integrating technology and science into the art of golf teaching, making him not only an instructor but a leading thinker in golf's evolution.
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Brian Manzella's contributions to golf instruction are marked by his originality, his embrace of technology, and his dedication to education, making him a pivotal figure in modern golf teaching.