Tips for Parents

Some time ago I received correspondence which contained an article written by the well known professional Gavan Levenson. In the article Gavan provided some guidelines to parents on how to create a pleasant golfing experience for their children.

docray agrees with the points put forward by Gavan and would like to share these with you.

1. Remember that they are children and as such need to have fun. Too many parents drive their children to a point where the game is viewed as a matter of life and death.
2. Ensure that the basics of the game are learnt correctly by making use of a reputable coach.
3. The child should become a member of a golf club. Not only will he/she receive an official handicap but will also become familiar with aspects of the game such as etiquette and rules.
4. By joining the South African Junior Golf Foundation your child will be able to play in organized events which further their exposure to fundamental aspects of the game.
5. Be aware of the costs involved as golf can be expensive. Enquire about Development Programmes if your budget does not allow for participation.
6. Children exhibiting genuine potential should be exposed to experienced and caring professionals.
7. Do not neglect your child's education in favour of golf as there are no guarantees for golfing success.
8. Do not rush them into attempting to become professional players.
9. The holistic approach to golf looks at 5 aspects: technical, tactical, physical, mental and lifestyle skills. Use appropriate tutors for these.

There is nothing that can frustrate a coach or tutor more than an interfering parent who does not carry the necessary skills or qualifications to deliver an informed opinion. If you have employed someone to look after some aspect of your child's game, let them do what is required of them. Interference by a parent can undermine the player/coach relationship.

In an interview about his career, the great Australian tennis player Rod Laver said that throughout his career he always thought that when things were not going his way in a match that the only thing he had to lose was a tennis match. It was not the end of the world if he lost.

Parents remember this and let me assure you that no child plays badly deliberately. Shouting at or physically striking a child for poor performance is a definite no.