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From Haven,
golfer: |
|
I have been playing golf for three years
now and currently have a +1 handicap. I am working on generating
sponsorships to embark on a professional career. I am at a
crossroads of sorts. I have yet to take a lesson in my golfing
career, but feel that it is a necessity in order to take my game to the
next level. I am scared to death of getting involved with a teacher
who is going to try to drastically change my swing or approach to the
game. How can I find someone who will work on the finishing touches of my
game without putting me through a major rebuilding stage? How do I make it
clear to an instructor that I am not a recreational golfer, and how do I
tailor my search for a coach accordingly? |
|
PGA/LPGA
TEACHING
PROFESSIONAL
RESPONSES: |
Alabama
"Haven: 1st, Talk to
several good players in your area... ask what they know about the teaching
professionals in your area. 2nd, Once you make a list of a few
professionals call them and ask if you can observe them teaching. Explain
that you are embarking on a golf career and that you would like to observe
how they teach, and ask a few questions. See if you agree with the style
they are teaching. Most teachers do not mind having someone watching
them as they teach. The PGA promotes education of golf, and business.
Afterwards sit down and inquire why they used several drills. 3rd,
When you find a teacher you click with, explain what your intentions are.
Let them know what kind of player you are, and where you want to go.
If you are a +1 handicap, most teachers will recognize that and
understand there are not many changes that may be needed to get you to the
next level. 4th, I might suggest that you find a good short game teacher.
I feel that the short game is a big reason many make it to the next level.
A +1 handicap sounds to me like you have pretty good ball striking
abilities that need little tweaking or rebuilding. As for the Alabama
area... I know Mike Shannon of Montgomery C.C. in Montgomery, AL is
a great short game guru..... He current works with Chris DiMarco and other
professionals.... he maybe able to steer you to a coach in your area. Good
luck - looking forward to seeing you on the tour in the next year."
- Todd
Beterman, Teaching Professional |
California
"I wish you much
success at trying to play professionally - I did so myself for 13 yrs (2
on the LPGA Tour). You need to bite the bullet and find an instructor to
meet your needs. In particular look for one who is known for working with
better players and has a known track record. Observe and interview,
though, before taking a lesson. Give them a chance and realize you have to
go back 5 steps to go 6 steps forward - sometimes less. I would also
make sure you find a top notch short game instructor as the shots inside
100 yards & putting are what separates the men from the boys. Above
all, please don't fall for those instructors that say they'll "make
you a player" and promise you the moon. Good luck and hope to see
your name on the leader board!" - Kati
Biszantz, Teaching Professional |
California
"I am a life member of the PGA and have taught many Professionals
along with all other skill levels.
1.) If your Swing Mechanics are sound any GOOD teacher won't change
you dramatically. If not then you will never play well enough to become a
+4 handicap or be able to compete on the Tour without some needed changes.
+1 won't do it but is a great position to be in and improve. You must be
willing to leave your Comfort Zone for a period of time while adjusting to
some needed changes if that reputable and GOOD teacher decides you need
it. 2.) Any GOOD teacher will see by watching 3 or 4 shots in all
portions of the game (Long, mid and Short game) that you are a serious
Player. I would suggest you contact your Local PGA section and find out
who the past 3 Teachers of the Year have been. Take a lesson from each
(interview them) and decide if this is what you are looking for. They
might even recommend someone." - Pat
Chartrand, Teaching Professional |
California
"Haven: It sounds to me like you have a firm
understanding what you need. I would express your concerns exactly as you
stated them in the e-mail. Look for a teaching professional with at least
10 years experience in teaching and coaching. You need someone to refine
your skills which you already posses. Work on balance and set up. Know
your body lines. I would suggest you visit a website called
MindUnderPar.com It is the site of The M.U.P. golf schools by Dr. David
Wright. I work very closely with Dr. Wright here at Pelican Hill Golf Club
and teach many clinics and schools with him. He currently works with
Dennis Paulson, Esteban Toledo, & Patrick Burke, all PGA Tour Players
as well as many LPGA, Canadian PGA, Asian Tour Players. We teach mostly
set-up, balance and routine. Check him out. He is the type of person you
are looking for. Good Luck and perhaps we'll meet someday."
- Mike
Davis, Teaching Professional |
California
"First of all, if it's not broke...no need to try and fix it. Keep
doing the things that got you to where you are. Secondly, you are
definitely on the right track. You are right, you need a coach to help
with the fine tuning of your game to take you to the next level or do
you?...Daly and Triplett never had anyone! If an instructor can't tell
that you are serious about your game then that instructor is obviously not
the one. It is tough to find the right coach for you because golf is a
business and even a lot of money will not guarantee your success. The
bottom line is that you will get what you put into it, no matter if you go
to a local community college or a major University. What I mean is that,
David Ledbetter did not make Nick Faldo the success he once was. Nick
Faldo made Nick Faldo successful! Lastly, keep focused and organized.
These two assets along with a clear understanding of the basics will keep
you on the right path. The rest is repetition. With the internet the way
it is today, I would consider assisting you in
your efforts. I have the experience and the knowledge to realize what it
is that you are seeking. It is not as difficult as it seems. Just keep
things simple!" - David
Ruvolo, PGA, Teaching Professional |
California
"Make sure your instructor is "Student
Centered", and that your goal is their goal. Fundamentals should be
stressed, as all good players have that in common, but there should be
room for personal learning styles, flexibility, inherent swing movements.
Ask around, the best referrals are when you hear the instructors name from
several sources. Do not be afraid to take a trial lesson, and not make any
further commitments until after you have had a chance to digest that
lesson, and see if it meets your needs."
- Mardell
Wilkins, Teaching Professional |
California
"What I would suggest is finding out what you feel are your
deficiency are. I would suggest playing in some larger regional events for
even a qualifier for the Buy.Com. Find out how you stack up against the
players at that level. Once you determine what you are lacking compared to
the players of the next level you can address what you will be looking for
in a teacher. Some teachers are very good a the full swing mechanics, some
are very good at short game mechanics. You need to find out which you are
in need of most. When dealing with teachers you need to ask specific
questions. Find out what there design for a plan would be. Do they
have experience with college level players or tour level players?
Some teachers are good at helping beginning level players but lack the
experience to fine tune good players. Find out who are the best teachers
in your area, have they won any awards for teaching? Keep me posted if you
have any other questions. If you are very serious and are willing to
travel to the desert, I teach at Bermuda Dunes Country Club, host site of
the Bob Hope Chrysler Classic. I have dealt with players on the college,
Buy.Com and Tour Level. I would be happy to discuss in more detail what
you should do over the phone or in person." - Bob
Veroulis, Teaching Professional |
Florida
"Sir: You need to talk to your friends and other
professional players and find out who has a good reputation with players.
When you find a good coach, you need to first interview them, tell them
exactly what you are looking for and be comfortable with them on a
communication basis. Good Luck!"
- Mike
Clayton, Teaching Professional |
Florida
"Haven: A good instructor will conduct an
"interview" session with you prior to your first trip to the
lesson tee. The instructor should spend a minimum of 10 minutes getting to
know your goals and why you are there seeking assistance. Through the
series of questions you and the instructor should both have an idea of how
you could work together. After the first lesson if you do not feel
comfortable with the teacher's style of teaching or communication habits
than you should move on to another teacher. Also, in my opinion a well
qualified instructor will understand that you are already a skilled
handicap (+1) and you obviously do not need major swing reconstruction. In
other words, what you are currently doing must be working pretty well. If
you want to continue playing competitive golf at a higher level my I
suggest seeking an instructor that is willing to give you on the course
guidance and work on course management, trouble shots and mental aspects
of the game. These areas are often forgotten during a "normal"
lesson and should be of major importance in coaching a better player. It
is okay for you to be selective in your process of seeking a new
instructor. Feel free to ask the teacher about his/her training, and
experience in working with other experienced players. It is not out of
line to ask for a resume so you can see what the instructor has to offer
you. Good luck in your search. Keep up the good work!" - Jennifer
Cully, Teaching Professional |
Florida
"Great questions. There is a saying among teaching professionals that
a good teacher may have a method, but a great teacher has many methods. If
you are in fact a +1 handicap, having played only three years with no
instruction you are exceptional. I would guess that you have tremendous
hand eye coordination and you need to find someone who will work with YOUR
natural swing. You want to tweak, not rebuild. Let me know where you are
from, I may know someone in your area that can help."
- Mike
Dopslaff, Teaching Professional |
Florida
"Whatever area you live in has plenty of pros teaching. The thing is,
you want to go to someone who will not rip the swing apart. This can be
done by specializing the lesson, such as chipping or putting, just
attempting to find a Pro that teaches the WAY YOU LISTEN. Most teaching
pros are not +1 handicap so take your time and don't penny pinch to be a
pound foolish."
- Chip
Ebert, Teaching Professional |
Florida
"Dear
Haven: You post an excellent question and one that you have obviously put
a lot of thought into. To pick the right instructor is very
interesting. I understand your concerns and offer you this advice.
Interview 3 instructors and see what each one has to say and how they
listen to you. That is very important. If they hit you with a bunch of
theories they probably aren't the right one. But if they listen to you and
give you feedback and a plan you need to trust them. Do a background check
on each one. Ask to see their resumes of who they worked with.
Make sure they have worked with numerous tour players that have improved!!
Then make your decision and stick with it. Remember it took Tiger Woods
almost 2 years to rework his swing after he won the Masters by 12 shots."
- Jess Frank,
Teaching Professional |
Florida
"Dear Haven: You are in luck. I'm a Master Instructor and coach,
working with aspiring players like yourself. A little about myself before
I answer your questions. I've had experience on Tours throughout the world
played in the U.S. Open and events on the PGA Tour. First of all, I think
it would be a good idea to get an instructor/coach to assist you in
achieving what you want to achieve. Second, surround yourself with people
you have faith in, and real good players! Third, embrace the possibility/opportunity
to have someone help you rather than be scared that they will change
everything in your game. This will happen if you go to someone in your
area and tell them exactly what it is that you want to accomplish -follow
your heart/intuition. You truly will be able to tell if that teacher is
right for you. I would say your first lesson would be about 80% talking of
what you wanted. Fifth, if it isn't with me, have open ears and do what
they say (trust them) and let them guide you to what it is that you want!
BEST of LUCK and SKILL. If I ever can help you, e-mail me." - Sean
Gorgone, Teaching Professional |
Florida
"Tiger rebuilt his swing after he won the US Amateur
during his 1st year on tour. If you are fundamentally sound there will not
be any major swing changes. If you are not fundamentally sound you had
better make the changes or you will always be a rec golfer...go where the
pro's go: Ed Oldham in Denver, CO. Carl Rabito in Windermere, FL. Mike
Mcgetrick in Englewood, CO. David Leadbetter in Champions Gate, FL. These
men are not cheap, but you won't have any doubts after the 1st lesson. I
understand the fear of going to a teacher you do not have trust in, so you
better go with a name and if they tell you this is what you have to do you
can take it to the bank. These people have several players now on tour
that would not be there if not for them. I can tell you this for a fact
because I was there when they made the changes--here are a few of their
names: Verplank, Dawson, Frost, Price, Faldo, Estes, Cink, Ellis...good
luck! - Jim
Kosters, Teaching Professional |
Georgia
"I wish I was so lucky. For just playing the game for three years and
having that kind of handicap is very remarkable, and you should be very
lucky to have achieved greatness in a sport that takes a lot of time and
practice. As far as finding that right coach and or teacher, I think it's
very important that it be someone who can be seen frequently without
having to travel a great distance to do so. Two, start slow even though
you picked up the game very fast find someone who you like, understand,
and is on the same page that you are. Let that instructor know your skill
level but hit all aspects of the game first from the Driver to the Putter
before you start fooling around with just the swing. I see many good
players come through here (Sea Island Golf Club) Davis Love III, Greg
Norman, Beth Daniels etc. and you would be surprised during their golf
lessons how simple the instructor makes it. (Jack Lumpkin) More often it
all comes back down to the fundamentals, the repetition. Having someone
you can trust and more importantly know what your goals are is
crucial. With your skill level I don't think you will have a problem
getting sponsors. Good luck." - Bin
Brandon, Teaching Professional |
Indiana
"With the kind of success you have had in three years, you must be
doing a lot correctly! My first thought is to explain to a professional
where you are and how little time it took you to get there.
Remember, the professional is there to serve your needs and not you to
feed on his ego. There are courses for horses and there are teachers for
students. You didn't indicate your driving distance or accuracy. I would
hope that any professional you start with would have the courtesy to
send your talent in the right direction if they can't help you." - Gary
Focken, Teaching Professional
|
Maine
"Dear Haven: First of all, congratulations on developing a game of
that level on your own. It is only through determination and hard-work
that golfers attain a high level of ability...I commend you! As for
finding an instructor to work with you, I tell all of my students it is
like finding the correct doctor. There are many different philosophies and
ideas on how to improve golfers. Every instructor has a different
personality and temperament. While none are wrong, we are all different.
Spend the time to research what is out there and find the one that
"fits" you and your goals. Sit down with that person and explain
your situation and if the first words out of their mouth is not a question
about your goals...then I suggest moving on to the next one. The programs
we offer at Target Zone Golf revolve around your very concern.
The majority of our students participate in our programs year round as we
offer instruction as well as golf conditioning programs. If you would like
to discuss your goals and your game please do not hesitate to email me.
There are a lot of qualified PGA Professionals out there, be patient and
you will find one that will assist you in making your goals a reality. And
once again....congratulations!"
- Chris
Christie, Teaching Professional |
Maryland
"You probably will be better off with a COACH vs. a teacher. I
personally listen more than tell. Positive reinforcement is better than
constant work on mechanics etc. I currently have on my resume a LPGA Tour
player, Tina Barrett and more recent Stephanie Connelly who is ranked 40
something in the Junior rankings. If you want to talk: call me at the
Walden Golf Club 410-721-8268 x 236."
- Norm
Vacovsky, Teaching Professional |
Michigan
"Haven: You have to investigate each potential instructor somewhat.
Find out what their teaching philosophy is and compare it to your beliefs.
If they match you have a winner. Be careful however, your swing may need
some changing to be a tour player? As a PGA Professional I assure you we
are here to help not hinder each players' development. Good luck." - Shaun
Bezilla, Teaching Professional |
Michigan
"Haven, If I were you I would consider sinking my time and money into
mental training, unless you feel you have a fundamental flaw in your
swing. Most players at top levels hit the ball pretty much the same.
Putting, short game and mental strategy are what separate guys who make
checks from guys who don't. Hope that helps." - Nathan
Oake, Teaching Professional |
Michigan
"Because you are a +1
handicap, your golf swing (full swing) must be in good shape, more or
less.
The fact that you have never had a lesson in your life means that you have
developed your swing by feel. You may want to find a teacher who has
helped lower handicap players in the past and start by having that person
work on your short game first. This is going to be helpful at the start by
finding out if you like that persons approach to you. If you do not like
their approach, no harm, you can move on to someone else. Be up front with
this person and tell them what you are looking for. Ask questions and ask
other people who have taken lessons from this person. A player such as
yourself more than likely will not need major revisions in the swing but
success will come slowly, changes in a high handicappers play comes fast.
Any help to them produces fast results, relatively speaking. Also, look
for a sports psychologist to help you with the mental aspect of playing
tournament golf. Good luck in your search and the rest of your
career." - Jack
Seltzer, Teaching Professional |
Missouri
"I would suggest you find an instructor who works with PGA Tour
players. Find a player who has a swing similar to yours and find out who
he works with. I would make a list of questions you may have regarding
your swing and your career and write to one or more of these
instructors. Keep practicing. You cannot be a +1 with a bad swing!
Best of luck." - Perry
Leslie, Teaching Professional |
Missouri
"It sounds like you have progressed extremely well in just three
years. Finding a proper instructor is extremely important and I would be
sure that you work with someone who has experience with tour players. When
you get to that level, it's much more than just playing. When I worked
with David Frost in 1997, the year he won The Colonel, in Ft. Worth,
Texas, it's small, specific things along with building positive, mental
thoughts. You need an instructor that can find the source of a problem and
not a quick fix, along with the ability to get in your head. Tournament
play is about 90% mental and many people can't handle that kind of
pressure. Also, how many tournaments have you played in? I would try and
get into everything I could. The more tournaments the more comfortable you
will feel playing with a crowd and strong players. If I were to work with
you, I wouldn't even look at your swing right away. I would sit down and
take about certain things and then take you on the course and play 36
holes. From there, sit back down and discuss what needs work. Good luck to
you!" - David
Mulso, Teaching Professional |
New Hampshire
"First of all I'm sure that I speak for a whole bunch of fellow
golf professionals in saying a hearty congratulations on your
accomplishments thus far in your golfing life! To have only been
playing golf for three years and to have brought your game to the level
it's at is wonderful. I'm very happy for you. The questions you
raise regarding taking your game to the next level are somewhat complex
due to the individual nature of your game and also in your considerable
talent. One of the first things I would say to you is, remember the things
that brought you to the level you are at. I know it sounds simplistic,
however I believe that inside each of us there is a method, or a system or
a process if you will that will take you where you want to go. With that
having been said, I'll make some suggestions. First of all, you need to
circle yourself around people that care about you the person. They must
have your best interests at heart. Secondly, finding that teacher that
will help you take your game to the next level should be a very personal
decision as well. Find someone that wants to listen to your dreams as much
as he or she wants to talk to you about your golf swing and your method of
play. I see so many of my well intentioned colleagues try to take apart a
good players game and get he or she to believe that what has to take place
in order to improve, will take a long time and will require a ton of work.
I believe that the only things that will consistently repeat themselves
are the things that come natural to you. Golf swings don't break down. Our
minds and our souls do unfortunately. Doubt, fear and uncertainty are the
worst things that can happen to your game. This approach may sound a bit
off the beaten path, but I strongly believe that we all have a bit of true
genius within us. As far as you are concerned Haven, find someone that
will help you to become a student of the game and will help you to
understand your own method, not the one someone else thinks you should
use. If you can learn how your game works and your swing, and most
importantly your mind, then you can go on and help yourself when you need
it most, on the golf course, under pressure, whatever that pressure is. I
really hope that all of your hopes and dreams come true. I know this seems
to be a bit of a personal e-mail from a pro that doesn't know you, however
I am very interested in teaching the game to people, boosting their
confidence and helping them all find themselves in the process. Please
feel free to contact me at any time, if you'd like to talk further. Best
Wishes!" - Keith
W. Gagnon, Teaching Professional |
New Mexico
"I would suggest you visit with a few instructors, talk to them about
their teaching styles, communicate your needs and feelings frankly, and
try a lesson with the one you feel most comfortable with or that you feel
is the best fit for your needs. If that lesson works out well, continue
with that instructor. If not, try another or restart the process in
another location." - Warren
Lehr, Teaching Professional |
New York
"Communicate with your teacher openly by discussing your issues
over the phone or in person before the lesson. I suggest you see Penny
Zavachias. Look her up in the database here on FINDaLESSON.com." -
Connie
Chillemi, Teaching Professional |
New York
"What I would do is ask the professional and tell him what you
want to do. I know I am happy to be able to work with students who have an
idea of where they are trying to go and the effort it will take to get
there." - Steve
Hirst, Teaching Professional |
New York
"Dear Haven: Only playing three
years and a +1 handicap! You should have very few problems getting
sponsors. As far as a teacher/coach it's OK to be cautious but do not fear
talking to a PGA./LPGA teaching professional one on one. It will be worth
your time and money. Any good teacher will have a list of questions for
you while he /she looks at your swing. My first suggestion is
PLAY<PLAY<PLAY <PRACTICE>PRACTICE>PRACTICE. If you can hold
up to a +1 under tournament conditions you are well on your way. Find out
all the local and state events you can play in, and figure out a way to
play in them. But, do yourself a favor and be completely honest with the
teaching professional. Depending on your answers to my questions we may
have to step onto the golf course and see what you have. Then we would sit
down and talk about your short and long term goals. The big question would
be, How much time and effort are you willing to put into your game??? Good
Luck!"
- Stephen
Kladis, Teaching Professional |
New York
"Haven: I would say
that everyone on Tour has a Professional that they report to - you really
should have someone. In making a selection, make sure they are a PGA
Professional, they have experience at all levels, and they must have a
good video system. Ask to interview the Professional(s) and ask many
questions e.g. what is their method(s), what swings do they like on Tour,
what kind of player are they now or were. When you take the lesson there
should be much conversation in the beginning of the lesson on what you are
looking for and what you would like to accomplish. The video comes next
where you will both look at it and decide what needs to be worked on -
this should be a team decision and a team effort If you are a +1 now
a new swing certainly is not needed - it will be little things if
any."
- Jim Muszak,
Teaching Professional |
Ohio
"First off, talk to one
of the teaching pros at the course you play. Let he or she know exactly
what you want. If he or she is not willing, try someone else. At your
level, you need to work with someone you can trust with utmost confidence.
Most teachers will not change your swing drastically, unless there is
something mechanically wrong. A good teacher will work with the swing you
have, tweaking it here or there as need be. At your skill level, all
you probably will need to have done, is some fine tuning of your swing to
make it hold up under tournament conditions, and quite possibly, work on
the mental approach to the game." - Patty
Reno, Teaching Professional |
Ohio
"Great Question: Call me to discuss further. Talk to other good
players who take lessons to see who they recommend. Then have a good 15
minute discussion with a couple prospective instructors. Ask, especially,
about their proposed schedule of and content of the lessons they would
give you. A good instructor will love that question. Thanks!" -
Joel Suggs,
Teaching Professional |
Oregon
"A very good question. I guess I feel the best thing you can do is
begin a research project on your local PGA Professionals. Find out
who some of your favorite Professionals have taught and ask them about
the teaching style, patience factor, ability to communicate so the student
understands what it is they are supposed to do. How does the Professional
respond to a student's feelings about progress, etc. There are
many more questions you might think of. Make a list. Few Pro's will try to
change a swing that works. Also, what are the playing credentials of the
local Professional you may be interested in. Has he won
tournaments, local or regional, even nationally. How willing is he to take
on the task of helping you reach your Goals. To be your "Coach"
he must be motivated and enthusiastic about the task. In the final
analysis, it is up to you to do whatever it takes to improve to the level
that you can compete at a higher level than in the past. If you can win at
the local level as an amateur, and win consistently, then you may be able
to move to the next step. Play all the tournaments you can.
Participate in Pro-Am events with the Professional you select and see how
you fair with the Professionals you will be competing with. You must
be able to dominate the local amateur scene to be able to move comfortably
to the next level. This will take Dedication to the accomplishment of your
goal. Determination to do the things necessary to reach your goal
and of course none of this is workable if you don't have a high degree of
Desire. Your goals to a professional career are Achievable. Go For
It." - Ronn
Grove, Teaching Professional |
Pennsylvania
"Hi there. This will be rather lengthy, but I really think it's
important. First of all, you want to make sure that you are playing
competitively on a local level. How've you done in tournaments so far? You
need to see how you stand against the local talent. Once you're beating
them handily, and that could take some time, then you are ready for a
regional level, maybe mini-tours. Once in the mini's you'll have to prove
yourself once again and as you rise to the top, you'll know when it's time
to give Q school a shot.
Before you try Q-school, you probably should have a tournament playing
average of even par or (hopefully) better. It's really expensive and you
don't want to throw away your money. Incidentally, it's the local success
that will get sponsors interested in you, and your continued success that
will keep them interested. About a teacher. I really think that, before
you have a golf swing lesson, your teacher of choice should give you a
skills test and play with you. You don't need a perfect swing to compete,
but you can't really afford any weaknesses. With all due respect,
sometimes we don't really know where we need improvement, but a pair of
well trained eyes can see everything in a round of golf. Only
then should you chart a course to improvement. When it comes to actual
swing instruction, make sure you ask this simple
question--"Why?" Your teacher should be able to explain
perfectly clearly the need for any changes and how suggested changes will
improve your ability to control the ball. Don't settle for answers like
"I like to see you here," ask "why exactly." One more
thing. If you haven't already done so, train your driver to go only one
way. Don't try to fade and draw it, stick to one flight. I was just
telling this to a couple of European Tour players, one of whom played
Ryder Cup, while I was teaching in Morocco. It's very important that you
absolutely own one ball flight so that, on the shot of your life, you know
that you can send the ball down one side of the fairway and it will never,
ever double-cross you. That, and a great short game are the keys to
competitive golf. I hope this helps and great luck. It's worth the effort,
whatever happens." - John
Dunigan, Teaching Professional |
Pennsylvania
"If you have developed a game in three years by yourself that plays
to a plus 1 handicap, I would doubt that anyone would make any major
changes to your swing. If you feel that there is a certain area that you
would like to work on and make better, I would not hesitate to take
instruction off many teachers, and see if you could find one that you feel
you can work with. Any information you may acquire will not hurt your
existing game, but may add to it. Don't be afraid of instruction. It is
not glue. If it does not work for you, don't do it." - Bob
Sheppard, Teaching Professional |
Pennsylvania
"Dear Haven: Interesting question about finding a pro to work
with...I took my first lesson following a successful collegiate career,
including 2 NCAA Long Drive Titles, and 3 years as a Division II NCAA All
American and 21 victories. Following my lessons, I had a hard time
breaking 75. The problem was that I went to a teacher who taught a
"METHOD." The problem with METHOD teachers is that their method
works for some, but not others. I was one of the others. My suggestion to
you would be to search for someone who is a) a former playing professional
who can give you the insight you're seeking
as a player; b) a professional who works with other touring professionals;
c) able to understand your goals and objectives and who can give you
criticism without offending you. Those would be the elements I'd be
looking for if I was in playing shape and looking to break into the ranks
of great players.
If you'd like to talk more, please feel free to contact me
personally."
- Ben
Witter, Teaching Professional |
Rhode Island
"Dear Haven: You should contact the PGA section in your area and they
can give you a list of teachers and or coaches in your area. Or you can go
on the PGA website PGALINKS.com. Do not be closed minded to instruction -
a little tweaking of your swing might be needed and can take you to the
next level. Most qualified instructors can make that call in a few minutes
of watching your swing. If you were in the Northeast I would be happy to
help." - Susan
Bond, Teaching Professional |
South Carolina
"Hello Haven: You're at a crossroads that many professionals have
been at in their golf careers. This I can say from experience. To make a
leap into the world of professional golf is a major step and a difficult
one, therefore it should not be taken alone if it can be helped. A good
teaching professional will only change what is necessary to ensure that
your level of talent is consistent, improvable and reliable. Finding the
professional that is right for you is not the easiest of tasks, for what
you are trying to achieve. First and foremost, he or she should be honest
enough to evaluate your game, and your talent level for playing in the big
show. Having been there I know this can be a tremendous asset knowing from
a reliable source, you have the potential. Remember the commitment has to
be two part, one from you and your sponsors and one from a good coach. You
should not have to make it clear to an instructor your intentions - he
should be asking you. You should use your gut instincts in interviewing
and talking to coaches. Look for what they can do for you if you are
willing to make the commitment. I hope this helps you. I can be reached by
email if you have any questions. Good luck." - Sean
M. Carey, Teaching Professional |
South
Carolina
"What a great problem to have with such little time put into the
game. You must be a great athlete. A few questions: 1)
What is your age? 2)
What types of competition have you put yourself into thus far, to
challenge the handicap? And how have you placed in those
competitions? 3)
What is your time frame for playing professional tour golf? Questions
2 and 3 should be answered honestly before you should even attempt to try
to play tour golf. Until you have seriously challenged your abilities with
a high level of amateur competitions, you will never know how your game
will hold up under pressure. You should have a defined time line as to
when you expect to be on a tour, of any type. And have specific goals on
that time line that have been reached. All
of our academy players go through this same process of evaluation before
entering a college or professional tour program. On
a piece of paper, write down the traits and attributes that you would like
to have in a coach. On the other side of the page, write down your
personality traits and playing habits. See what parts of the two lists are
common with each other. The common points should be emphasized as
you go through the process of looking for and interviewing a potential
coach. A great way to ask any potential coach
about his or her approach to teaching, and at the same time inform this
person of your ambitions, is to ask them the same question you asked me,
in the same manner. If you are serious about playing tour caliber golf,
you should be ready to ask serious questions of a potential coach. Any
coach who is serious enough to put forth the effort it takes to coach a
tour caliber player will not take offense to your questions. If during an
interview process, you find that the coach can not handle some of your
questions and concerns, you know that person is not right for you.
Don’t be surprised if any coach you pick, does more than what you feel
is “finishing touches.” Because you have not had any formal
coaching, having anyone fully involved in your development is going to
feel like your private space has been violated. Make sure that you
and your coach agree on what parts of your game need improvement. It will
help if you have kept good statistics of your game, to help the coach
better understand your tendencies. The most
common cause for a player/coach relationship breakdown is due to a lack of
communication on both ends. Pick a coach that will work within your
communication abilities. And make sure that your coach is available when
you need him/her. Finally, be prepared
to pay for a good coach. Tour caliber players require a lot of “TLC.”
This takes the coach away from other areas of his/her professional and
personal life. It requires the coach to travel and be available to you at
your required times. Try to work out an arrangement at the beginning that
adequately covers your coach’s expenses, travel, and instructional time.
Some coaches might delay any bigger payments until you have established
yourself on tour. If I can be of any further
assistance, please let me know." - John
Hughes, Teaching Professional |
Tennessee
"I have been teaching for over 15 years, and I will always ask the
student while scheduling a lesson or in the first lesson what their goals
are or what they want to accomplish. If you make this clear in the
beginning and tell the teacher what you are looking for he should be able
to accommodate you. If not he or she is not the teacher for you. Some
teachers have "systems" they adhere to and others like myself
teach the physics behind the game and still others teach band aides. It is
up to you to find the type that best fits what you are looking for. I will
tell you that a band aid is just that and will come off in 2 to 3
weeks." - Jeff
Dukehart, Teaching Professional |
Texas
"Interview the teacher before you select one. If he is like me he
will invite you to come out and watch him teach. Then you can determine
if you think he is someone who will be an integral part of your team.
Then make certain he asks the right questions. The teacher needs to
learn as much about a student of your level as possible. He should be
skilled at helping you with your mental game if possible. Preparing a
skilled player like yourself for competition involves thorough
evaluations of all facets of your technique and your trust in its
repeatability. Then evaluation of your physical condition, then your
mental condition. Good luck, and if I can help you let me know." - Dave
Baron, Teaching Professional
|
Texas
"Dear Haven: Becoming a +1 handicap in three years is quite an
incredible feat and in my opinion, you don't need a considerable amount of
swing instruction! Take some time to analyze your strong and weak points.
Spend time working on those weak points and let your natural ability shine.
The worst thing to do at this stage is to over analyze your swing. Before
working with any of my students, I always consult with them on future
goals and also ask how much time they can dedicate to practice.
Practice doesn't make perfect... perfect practice makes perfect! A
player with lofty goals without commitment to practice will tend not to
succeed. Obviously, with your track record, your determination must be
very high. You are a natural...it seems! Work diligently on the mental
game as much as you do the swing. Many beautiful swings on the PGA Tour
have been unsuccessful over the years due to lack of mental sharpness...
not technique! Good Luck!" - Dan
Howard, Teaching Professional |
Texas
"Any competent golf teacher will ask you what you want out of your
lesson(s). Tell him. A sponsor will come to you if you go out and win
something. Good luck!" - Pete
Merritt, Teaching Professional |
Texas
"Haven, it sounds like you have your golf swing down pretty good.
Maybe you need to concentrate more on the mental part of your game. I am a
certified GolfPsych Instructor from Dallas, TX. Try golfpsych.com and
start learning more about mental routines. You need to take the
personality test through golfpsych and get a profile done. Talk with Jon
Stabler on the web site, tell him that Bob Shirey refered you. If you have
any other questions about mental routines please email me."
- Bob
Shirey, Teaching Professional |
Utah
"Hello Haven, my name is Brent Wootton PGA Professional for
Utahgolf.net. I understand your problem. I don't like how some pros make
drastic swing changes so they match more of what they play like. My
recommendation to you is find a Pro or teacher that plays a similar game
style like you. He can give you some insight to course management and
minor mechanic changes. If you are a true +1 handicap, you already have a
game now - you just need experience. Once you make it on tour or even the
mini tour you will find many resources asking you if you need help. Good
luck and maybe we will see you on the Tour!" - Brent
Wootton, Teaching Professional |
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