The GOLF Top 100 Teachers Summit at Cabot Citrus Farms in Brooksville, Fla., offered a wealth of instruction goodies for recreational players. From expert tips on playing from the correct tees to splurging on the right club for your bag, there were valuable lessons to be learned. Tom Stickney recommends playing from tees that allow you to hit the same clubs as the pros to enhance your game. Meanwhile, Parker McLachlin’s bunker clinic showcased the continuous learning process for even the top teachers in the game.
Erika Larkin emphasizes the importance of playing with joy, reframing your mindset when faced with a challenging round. Joe Hallett suggests investing in a well-fitted driver to improve your ball flight and launch conditions. Joe Plecker highlights the etiquette mistake of having competing music playing in your group, which can be disruptive and annoying on the golf course. Additionally, Hallett recommends gripping down on your driver for straighter, more controlled shots on tight fairways.
Adam Smith’s drill of hitting balls with different clubs from the 150-yard mark helps players determine their proper yardages and select the right club for each shot. Jason Sutton stresses the concepts of repeatability and functionality over the term consistency, aiming to tighten shot patterns and improve overall performance. Many teachers agree that amateurs should consider ditching the 3-wood from their bag to simplify their club selection process.
Ultimately, golf doesn’t have to be complicated. Joe Hallett recalls a valuable tip he received from World Golf Hall of Fame member Paul Runyan, reminding him that at the end of the day, it’s just a putt. By reframing your mindset and focusing on the fundamentals, you can improve your game and enjoy your time on the course. As you implement these expert tips and advice, you may find yourself shooting lower scores and experiencing more satisfaction in your golf game.
