Schools & Tutors in Monterey

Brad Cursio usually begins his golf lessons by telling his students to ignore the outcomes of their swings. This may seem counterintuitive, but it’s a cornerstone of the Fresno State alum's cerebral approach to the game—one shaped during his years as a golf-school director, when he regularly watched amateur players go crazy obsessing about the length and accuracy of their drives. When he started his own golf school, Monterey Bay Golf Academy, Brad took his past experiences into account and instituted a method of instruction that charts the swing’s progress rather than the ball’s path.

Students at first skeptical of Brad's efforts to refocus their minds on swing mechanics should remember that he used the same method to become a PGA Class-A professional. To supplement his instruction, Brad utilizes the latest in swing-analysis technologies and sends his students home with DVDs packed with analyzed footage of their swings. He and his team of golf professionals also lead multi-day golf schools for all abilities. These schools focus on developing well-rounded players with lessons in swinging, putting, and wrestling mishit balls from the jaws of lake monsters.

JM Performance Horse’s instructor, Justin Mott, grew up in the company of horses at his family’s ranch, first taking up reins at the age of 3. About eight years later, Mott handled his first horse in training. This experience prompted Mott to sharpen his understanding of natural horsemanship and study the works of Tom Dorrance, who emphasized the feel of the horse and its interplay with the handler. Today, Mott works upon the verdant hills and pastures of Sheridan Equestrian Center, training both horses and humans. In classes designed for students of all skill levels, the seasoned rider strengthens connections between man and beast while teaching posture, commands, and proper U-turn technique.

The founders of RAW Talents started the nonprofit organization in response to the increasing lack of funding for art programs in the public school system. They uphold their mission to preserve artistic education through workshops for performing arts such as singing, acting, and video/print production, supplemented by lectures from industry professionals. RAW Talents' instructors provide academic tutoring during the school year and, after school lets out, they keep young minds and bodies engaged with summer camps in dance and science. For performers seeking a competitive outlet, the organization sponsors cheer teams, hip-hop dance crews, and conquering hordes of horse warriors that compete on the international circuit.