The Homeschool Group Golf launched on September 11, 2018 with a great group of 10 students ages 4 - 14.  While a few had some exposure to golf, overall the group is definitely beginner. Beginner groups are incredibly fun to teach because I get to witness dramatic improvements and hopefully develop some young raw talent. 

In the first lesson, I spent time determining which golf clubs would be appropriate for each golfer, I discussed safety and then I showed them some basics.  Soon the new golfers were learning that the golf swing is not as easy as it looks but they had fun.  Fun is what is most important for me after the first lesson.  

During our second lesson,  we focused on swing mechanics.  This is when I get to see natural ability for the full swing.  Some golfers are able to remain balanced naturally while others have tremendous power that needs to be harnessed.  Still others need more detailed instruction because they are thinking the same skills that worked for them in another sport can be applied to golf.  This is not always the case. 

I am having a blast with this group of young people.  During our next meeting I will be introducing the little feet to help them understand that "Happy Feet" is a movie not a golf move.  

I recently learned that one of my students would be attending school at home.  His Mom told me that after observing the environment in the public school system as a substitute teacher she discovered that her son was not challenged academically.  Having spent a considerable amount of time with him in golf lessons, I can attest that he is a very intelligent young boy and I look forward to seeing him grow as a golfer and as a person. 

I have talked to other parents who have elected to homeschool their children and while quality of education is important, I believe character building is a big factor.  As a golfer, character is paramount.  Counting strokes requires the golfer to be honest.  If you accidentally hit your ball while taking a practice swing it counts.  If you move your ball out of a difficult lie, it counts.  If you hit the ball into the water, it counts.  Everything counts in golf and everything counts in life. 

I have been playing since I was five but I practice every morning and any chance I get in-between lessons.  I love golf and it is my hope that my students will grow to love it as much as I do.  Some of my students have aspirations of attaining college scholarships and beyond so I talk to them constantly about commitment, discipline and perseverance.   All of these traits apply to the decisions we make daily.  

If you have decided to homeschool your child or know someone who has because character building is important, allow me to be a partner in that endeavor.  I have recently relaunched a 7-week Junior Golf Group Class on Tuesdays .