EDITORAL – EXPERTISE A COACH MUST POSSESS AND THE ROLES NECESSARY FOR SUCCESS OF A HIGH SCHOOL GOLF TEAM

Many of us played high school golf, and some of us even went on to play at the collegiate level. Even fewer have teed it up as a professional player, but at all levels there is a skill to coaching individuals so they can play their best.

At the high school level, we are often dealing with players new to the game or very inexperienced, so it is imperative that we are able to teach the basic fundamentals of the game without the players getting too bogged down in technical theory. It is also imperative that a high school coach is familiar with the main rules and etiquette of the game and not to be shy in giving out this information. Teaching etiquette, in particular, can be intimidating to new golfers, so a gentle approach is best.

There is nothing more frustrating to a member of a golf team than for a coach to play his or her favorites in the starting lineup instead of the best players. You would think that this doesn’t happen as you would think coaches would want to win above all else, but think again. Playing favorites does happen and it isn’t a good idea.

Above all, a coach needs to be a role model for the team. He or she must be patient but firm, and every team member must feel comfortable in addressing any matter, including non-golf matters, with the coach. Most people will forever remember their high school golf experience, so it’s best the coach makes it a great memory by following these simple but effective principles.