Naixin Li
About
Naixin (Sophia) Li is the Founder and Head Coach of So Golf Academy, a premier golf training center in the Greater Toronto Area.
Sophia founded So Golf Academy in 2017, and it has since grown into a leading 5,000-square-foot facility in Markham, serving over 6,000 students. The academy offers lessons seven days a week and features five state-of-the-art golf simulators, advanced training equipment, a fitness area, a club repair department, and a dedicated practice putting green. Sophia leads a team of eight coaches, delivering instruction to golfers at every level — from beginners to elite athletes.
A highly respected PGA of Canada Class “A” Professional, Sophia was honored with both the PGA of Ontario Junior Leader of the Year Award and the Professional Development Award in 2024. She is also a member of the PGA of Ontario Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Advisory Group, a participant in the Women in Coaching (WIC) Program led by the PGA of Canada and Golf Canada, and a three-time finalist (2020, 2021, and 2024) for the PGA of Canada Warren Crosbie Community Leader of the Year Award.
Sophia is also a coach for the Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) Bold Golf Team, bringing her expertise to the university level and mentoring the next generation of competitive golfers.
Dedicated to advancing golf instruction, Sophia is a TPI Level 3 Certified Teaching Professional, a U.S. Kids Certified Coach, a SAM Certified Putting Instructor, and a Certified Club Fitter by Mitchell Golf. Her vision and passion for the game have helped make golf more accessible and inclusive, inspiring countless golfers and creating a vibrant learning platform for the community. Sophia’s leadership and contributions continue to leave a meaningful and positive impact on the sport.