Positive Golf Tip for Kids Golf ---

Here's an item that my wife came across when she was looking back at the June 2007 issue of GOLF magazine:

In an article about Johnny Miller, by John Garrity, Steve Gregoire commented on the positive, encouraging way Johnny's dad spoke to his son when he was a youngster learning the game. (Gregoire was team captain of the junior golf team that Miller played on in his youth at San Francisco's Olympic Club.) Gregoire said that Johnny's dad always called him "Champ." "There was never a negative word. If Johnny hit a bad shot, his dad would praise his setup or something. By the time he was 12, Johnny believed hook, line and sinker that he was going to be a champion."

This is a great example of the value and impact of speaking positive, supportive "golf talk" to kids to help instill confidence and a can-do attitude. It's a good habit (used by many successful coaches too) to praise something even when the kids hit an errant shot. Focusing solely on an error instills the habit of focusing on the negative. "Blending" in a supportive correction along with praise for the proper moves helps to accentuate the positive and goes a long way in cultivating confidence. Never underestimate the power of praise for kids (and for yourself!).

Here's to great golf!

Rick Semple
Positive Golfer
Co-Founder,
TheHeartofGolf.com