The White Move: Tips and thoughts from the lesson tee
New years resolutions are something we all think about this time of year. We can all think of personal resolutions, family resolutions and career resolutions. I’ve tried to come up with some golf related resolutions that you can think about achieving in 2011.
It’s always best when we put pen to paper, listing our goals for the year. There is something about seeing our commitment written on paper, and something very rewarding when we can then cross off the list those deeds we’ve accomplished.
Here are some thoughts to consider with the Michigan golf season not too far off in the near future:
* Resolve to dust off the golf clubs earlier than Tax Day this year.
* Resolve to learn a new shot this year. Learn how to hit a good bunker shot, the high lob shot, how to knock it down into the wind or hit that low skipper that checks up after a few bounces. I request that all my better players learn how to hit a 100-yard pitching wedge shot, even though their pitching wedge is their 120-yard club.
* Resolve to go through the fitting process and learn about the importance of lie angle, shaft flex, shaft material, grip size, club length and head design. How does ball speed, club speed and launch angle fit into the fitting process? Properly fit clubs are a must.
* Resolve to learn more about the value of golf fitness. Physical limitations can and do restrict our ability to swing the golf club correctly. In most cases, those limitations can be improved.
* Resolve to practice and play more. Your commitment will pay off. Trust me.
* Resolve to get your family more involved in the game. Some of my greatest memories are playing golf with my parents and brothers. I still cherish the opportunity to do so.
* Resolve to attend a golf school, camp, or seminar this year.
* Resolve to actually read that golf magazine you have delivered every month from cover to cover.
* Resolve to the seek answers to those pesky questions you have always had regarding the golf swing. Read the Rules of Golf this year, one rule at a time.
* Resolve to spend some valuable time with your significant other at a nice golf resort.
* Resolve to spend two-thirds of your practice time working on your short-game. Without a doubt the fastest way to lower your handicap.
* Resolve to attend a high school golf match, boys or girls. The two best players from each school are always paired together. Walk nine holes with them and marvel at how far they hit the ball and just how good young players are today.
* Resolve to give something back to junior golf, your time, money, old equipment or encouragement.
* Resolve to become a more involved with your golf organization. The success of any organization depends on commitment of its members.
The end result of these accomplishments will bring about a true sense of fulfillment along with a lower handicap. Opportunity abounds for you to improve your lifestyle. I encourage you to make it happen.
(Marc White is the PGA Supervisor of Instruction Oakhurst Golf and Country Club and Owner/Operator Marc White Golf Training Studio inside Great Lakes Athletic Club. Visit Marcwhitegolf.com for more details.)
Category: Golf Course Reviews, Guest Column
