There are so many areas to focus on within Golf that you can easily get lost! So understanding what makes you successful and prioritising the areas that you need in order to improve can be complicated at best.
The Player Tree is a simple analogy of your Golfing Journey, you firstly need strong roots and then the right conditions to grow! You will go through many seasons and challenges so there is a need to be resilient. If you can do this you will continue to grow, branch out and ultimately get stronger over time.
Depending on your development, there are certain times when you must focus on certain areas. An important lesson for both Coaches and Players is not trying to achieve this all at once!
Understanding what makes you tick as a Golfer takes time but with the help of a Coach/Support Team, I would strongly recommend you work towards a plan where you can not only explain what you do in each of these areas but can deliver them consistently.
Have a look at some of the prompts below. They might help you to identify gaps within your game or development that you can work on with your Team.
Do you know what works for you in each area? If not, start on the day of the event and branch outwards thereafter.
Do you have a clear plan and understanding on each area? What is fundamental to you? What are you working towards? How will you do this?
Do you have consistent Pre-shot and Post-shot routines for each of the skills listed?
Is your Equipment suited for you? Have you had a Full bag fit? Are those clubs loft & lied regularly? Do you know how to set-up a Tournament bag?
Have you been screened? Do you know your warm-up, recovery exercises,Programme? If not well worth working with someone to develop these skills?
Do you know your Key and Daily drills? How you should Practice at Events? Do you have a balanced practice plan template?
Do you have a plan? Are you organised in the entry, logistics etc? Do use manage your time with a Diary?
Do you know exactly how far you carry each club? How far it runs out in average conditions? Do you have a distance control system?
Do you have a clear career/education plan? Are you developing your Public speaking/Social media/Interview skills? When is the right time to turn pro?
Do you set clear Goals? Understand what you stand for? Your values? Are you working with someone to develop the other skills?
Remember, what is listed above is a Long Term Development Plan. Just like it takes years for a Tree to grow a Golfer is no different!!!
I hope you’ve found this interesting and provides you with some food for thought!!
If I can help in anyway or you have some questions please feel free to contact me on:- neil@nmgolf.co.uk