Innovative instructor spotlighted again on Golf Digest’s prestigious list of the country’s premier golf instructors under the age of 40
RALEIGH, N.C. – (Oct. 12, 2026) – The Club at 12 Oaks and MacGregor Downs Country Club PGA Director of Instruction Andrew Kiger was once again named to Golf Digest’s prestigious “Best Young Teachers in America” list for 2026-’27.
The magazine annually honors nearly 200 of the best golf instructors in America under the age of 40, who represent the “robust health of golf” nationwide.
Golf Digest raved about the expertise and adaptability of its award recipients:
“What makes them special? They personify the game’s transition from analog to digital. While still recognizing the value of traditional teaching methods, they also embrace how technology has transformed the game—and how golfers learn it.
“Most of these instructors place a major emphasis on reaching as many amateur golfers as possible through their creative use of social media, which was a point of emphasis in identifying the coaches who deserved to be on this list.”
Through his Andrew Kiger Golf (AKG) instruction program, Kiger has dedicated his career to helping golfers of all ages and skill levels reach their full potential. Known for his structured, fundamentals driven approach, Kiger believes great golf is built on sound mechanics, clear understanding, and purposeful practice. His coaching philosophy blends proven fundamentals with modern, fact-driven instruction to create lasting improvement.
“This award captures the spirit of Andrew’s value,” said General Manager Ed Handley. “Andrew has been an amazing asset for our clubs since 2020, working with our golf teams, members, and enhancing the overall experience. He has grown the junior golf program each year at MacGregor Downs and 12 Oaks. He teaches way beyond just executing the shot, but also instilling respect, staying well-balanced, and being confident, enabling his students to enjoy the game for the rest of their lives.”
Kiger was previously honored by Golf Digest in 2025-’26 as a Best Young Teachers in America honoree; and as among the Best in State from 2024-’27. He was named Carolinas PGA Teacher of the Year in 2025.
“Being recognized by Golf Digest is an incredible honor,” said Kiger. “I’m grateful to my family, the mentors who have invested in me, our coaching team, and especially the players and families at 12 Oaks and MacGregor Downs who trust us with their development. I’ve always believed great coaching is about continuing to learn and giving each player a clear path to improve, and I’m fortunate to get to do that every day.”
Kiger began his teaching career at Campbell University, where he studied under renowned PGA Tour coach David Orr. Kiger later spent the majority of his career at the prestigious Dana Rader Golf School in Charlotte, widely recognized as the top golf school in the state and one of the best in the country, where he helped develop players ranging from beginners to elite competitive juniors and collegiate golfers.
With over 20 years of teaching experience and more than 70,000 lessons taught, Kiger has built a reputation for developing players the right way. His passion for education, combined with a deep understanding of the golf swing and player development, has made him one of the most respected instructors in the Carolinas.
The Club at 12 Oaks and MacGregor Downs Country Club are both part of the 40-plus upscale private clubs in the Concert Golf Partners portfolio from coast-to-coast, reaching from Cape Cod’s The Club at New Seabury to California’s TPC Monterey at Pasadera.