One of the first things I ask a new student is what their goals are with regard to golf. Since most of these juniors have had some success at some level, invariably, most will say that they would like to play college golf then move on and play on the PGA or LPGA Tour. Those are terrific goals. I love to hear them say that. Read the rest of this entry »

I was attending a session recently with a student of mine and Dr. Michael Lardon. Dr. Lardon is a noted sports psychologist and author, based in San Diego, who works with a number of players currently on the PGA Tour, as well as other elite athletes in various professional and amatuer sports. Dr. Lardon suggested the following scenario to my student: Read the rest of this entry »

It happens at virtually every junior tournament everywhere.  The group meets on the first tee, introduces themselves to one another, then each player takes his or her turn driving the ball down the fairway. Next, each hit good second shots into the green. One may sink a birdie putt while the others tap in for par. Much the same happens on hole #2. Birds are singing and the sun is shining brightly. The players are focused and all seems to be right with the world. Read the rest of this entry »

At the upper levels of junior golf, or even at the professional level, what goes on between a player’s ears   determines what level of success they will attain. After all, the difference in actual talent amongst players is minimal. Mental toughness and focus is the difference. Read the rest of this entry »