To be a consistent golfer who shoots relatively low scores, certain aspects of their shines above the others. In my case, being in play off the tee (which includes the fairway and first cut) is a key component to my game. I have total confidence in my driver because time and time again it has set my round up for success. My skill off the tee is not a fluke, but something that I have honed over the years. Fortunately, I have found three things that works for my game when teeing it up that has led to lower scores and consistent golf.

The three aspects of my tee shots may not be what you think. There are two physical aspects of my game I must complete to be success. And just as important, there is one mental part of my game that ties everything together.

First the physical components. I use the ‘half moon’ tee height with the ball placed on the inside of my big toe. This is a little closer to center than most pundits recommend. However, with my swing this ball position allows my club to start on the upward portion of my swing when making contact. I went through many years of trial and error, but now my routine for teeing the ball is set and automatic. It is amazing how less than an inch can make all the difference. Fortunately, I found this location about 10 years ago and have not looked back. I have the most confidence using my driver off the tee because of my proven consistency and accuracy.

The second physical component is keeping my head still. In the past, I would try to track my ball flight as quickly as possible. This split second coordination caused issues with consistent ball striking. Now, I try to count to one after contact and I let my trail shoulder push my chin up to watch the ball flight. If for some reason I get ahead of myself and look to early, my swing is rarely complete and I usually pull the ball left. It is a quick fix when I am not in the fairway which leads to even more confidence with my driver.

The last major component to my success with my driver off the tee is acceptance. It took a long time for me to understand that I only hit the ball so far. I have improved my distance over the years, but about 15 years ago I stopped struggling the gain a few yards off the tee by swinging my driver out of balance. I realized that if I accept that I only hit the ball 240 to 250 yards off the tee under control, then I am more successful keeping my ball in play. This mental acceptance was a game changer. I was able to set up my second shot with a reasonable lie instead of trying to work miracle shots. Acceptance definitely changed my approach to shots off the tee and golf in general.

I am grateful that I can hit the ball in play off the tee. It took some time to get to this position, but now that I am here, my game is as good or better than ever. Knowing that I will consistently hit my driver in play has shaped my course management, improved my second shot success and lead to lower golf scores. I think finding the components that work for your game is critical to your success and the best place to start would be your local professional.

I am a grateful golfer! See you on the links!