Lesson with a youngster today! Only 9 years old.
His grandfather (who is not a golfer) came with adult clubs and during the lesson basically apologized for his grandson's lack of focus. During the lesson, the youngster hit shots on our short course and then ran to pick up the balls (approximately 80yds each). We focused on the proper grip during the lesson and my goal was not to "nag" the kid but let him experiment his way through different feelings. After he hit the ball too short / far, and after hearing the grandfather apologize for the kid's lack of touch, I finally had to say something. "Kids are kids and they need to experiment. They need to feel too long and too short. They need to understand the correct pre-swing fundamentals but in due time and only when they can handle the information according to their maturity level. This "little man" was off to a great start but will ultimately hit a road block if the grandfather steps in and tries to make his kid act like an adult.
My Advice: Let your Juniors make mistakes and learn their way through golf. Create a fun and educational environment, but then step away and let kids be kids!
Thanks! Steven
Hi Steven,
ReplyDeleteThats so true. At our club we have 'golfkul' which is just getting 6 year olds introduced and excited about golf. Last week I had 4 different stations; one legged Harry, umbrella pitch, putt- boxing and sandcastles. They were wild and were running all over the place but they had fun games, safe tennis balls, marked safety zones and only words of encouragement. Its so exciting with juniors as there is such little thought put into their swings, it's all so natural, a nice break from adult paralysis!
Good Stuff James! I think we as coaches need to provide a safe learning environment for the kids. We teach them the basics and then let them experience long/short/right/left...We encourage mistakes, because from mistakes comes real learning. Keep it up...I know you are on the right track!
ReplyDeleteRegards,
Steven