John Ellis: The Coach Who Caddied for a US Open Champion

John Ellis's relationship with Wyndham Clark didn't start on the caddie yard. It started in a university golf program, where Ellis coached Clark at the University of Oregon. That coaching history gave him something most caddies can only dream of: a complete, inside understanding of his player's game, personality, and what he needs to perform at his absolute best.

“Pros expect to get up and down. Amateurs hope to. If you want to lower your handicap fast, spend twice as much time inside 100 yards.”

A Course-Record 60 at Pebble Beach

Ellis grew up in San Jose — making Pebble Beach his home course in spirit. When Wyndham Clark shot a course-record 60 at Pebble Beach in 2024, Ellis was on the bag. For a native of the Bay Area, standing inside the ropes at Pebble while his player rewrote the record books was a perfect convergence of passion and profession.

The Mentor Advantage

Most caddies build their understanding of a player through years on Tour. Ellis brought that understanding from day one. He knows Clark's competitive mindset, how he responds under pressure, and what kind of communication he needs in critical moments. That context — built in college, refined on Tour — is an edge that's almost impossible to replicate.

From Canadian Tour Champion to US Open Caddie

Before caddying, Ellis was a Canadian Tour champion himself. That playing pedigree means his advice comes from someone who's felt the same pressure his player faces. When he gives a read, a club suggestion, or a word of encouragement, it's grounded in the experience of someone who's been inside those moments.