Questions & Answers Responses from PGA/LPGA Teachers on FINDaLESSON.com                                                                                  << BACK From Scott, golfer: I am currently a 7 Handicapper with a huge desire to become a US Open qualifier - what are your suggestions on a sort of road map to my goal? Please be more specific than practice practice practice. I have stints of playing at a high level now. I am looking for a path of action?? Please help. I know I have a long way to go but everyone started somewhere. PGA/LPGA TEACHING PROFESSIONAL RESPONSES: Florida "HI. That is a great goal you have. What I would suggest is enter as many top level amateur events as possible in your area. You need to expose yourself to being "under the gun" and in an environment filled with lots of skilled players. Once you reach a competitive environment in golf you are often faced with challenges you have not faced yet. There are many good books to help you understand the mental side of golf and what you have to do to break into the next level. The best practice is just to get out there and do it and constantly evaluate your success. Keep track of not only score but also stats and overall how you handle the ups and downs of emotions, fear of success, fear of failing, intimidation, doubt and maintenance of composure and confidence throughout the round whether good or bad. I think at a high level of play the thing that separates the champions is there ability to maintain there mental game and an awesome short game. Both those things take practice, patience and most of all CONFIDENCE. If you are curious to learn more about the things I am talking about I would be happy to suggest some reading or perhaps find a sports psychologist in your area that can take you to the next level of trust and relaxation. You can do it!! Thanks for using Findalesson.com. Best of Luck to you." - Jennifer Cully, Teaching Professional South Carolina "Besides practice, practice practice it is important to find a teacher to help you along your chosen path. You want to find someone who has a good reputation as an instructor in your area because you need to work with this person on an ongoing basis. Sit down with him/her and create a short term and long term plan so you are both working towards the same objective. Good luck!" - Mel Sole, Teaching Professional