Golf can be much easier than most think.

The basis for this statement is backed up by observing coaches and teachers of very young players in the game for over 3 decades now. The younger the player gets started, the easier the game can be to learn.

And if experienced players are open to learning, they can improve by modeling your new golf learner’s behavior.

This was 1 of the biggest most influential statements Dr Bob Rotella made to me in 1997. “Children get it right,” he said. “Watching them is amazing. They just know how to play. In my opinion, just make a study of observing them explore golf. Ask them questions without interrupting, then go apply what you learn.”

I took this to heart and applied Dr Bob’s advice to the best of my ability. I 1st applied it to myself as a player. Sounds unusual I know, but I pretended to be my son, George, out of bunkers.

For thick rough around the greens, I pretended to putt like Wesley.

Then, I applied simple ideas into my teaching and coaching which I got from baseball. Instead of a long wordy set up for the lesson today, I’ll let this quote from “E” Rutherford, who is the General Manager at LinRick Golf Club teach it.

”I don’t teach technique during the (baseball) game, that’s taught in practice.”

What’s my point? Do not practice swing mechanics while playing for score. When observing young players, watch quietly, without offering feedback.

Since the topic is playing and youth, go check Junior golf results of the Corona Senior Classic played at the Ponderosa Country Club this past Monday, at www.birdiefire.com .

A couple of locals excelled. Next week, more on Gilbert’s Sullivan Hooper and Blake Dimsdale who tied for the victory with Lieton Renner of Greenville with a score of +2.

There is a brand new golf program for the entire family that is in need of adult volunteers. Experience is not necessary.

Each of the local recreation commissions are involved separately, seasonally. The Irmo-Chapin Recreaton Commission, the Lexington County Recreation and Aging Commission and Richland County Recreation commision will have a “Family Golf Season.”

I am serving as the Ambassador and training coordinator through “Grow Golf Now”. The volunteer position would look a bit like youth sport coaches in baseball or soccer at the entry level.

Call (803) 603-1718, email me or visit grow golf at www.now.com , if interested.