A challenge all golfers face is hitting fairways and greens. My young friend Alex is playing in a school tournament today. We have been played a few times with the intent of improving his game from tee to green. On Sunday past, we walked 9 holes at the Mattawa Golf and Ski Resort to discuss course management while playing in a stroke play tournament. It was a great round and Alex asked many great questions. The main topic of our conversation was how to play well at Osprey Links (a course I am very familiar). As we walked around our home course, we discussed the best way to loop Osprey Links; I told him to hit shots that keep him on the fairways and greens!

Alex is an long ball hitting player who knows how to play his driver. He plays well around the green and can putt very well. He has a complete game, however he does struggle with his fairway wood from time to time. With this in mind, we talked about which clubs to use to ensure he hit the fairway off the tee. From memory, I recommended which club to use on which hole. He took it all in and considered my advice.

After about two hours of walking a chatting, we concluded that he was to play the game that he was most comfortable playing. I recommended he play a consistent game that is not overly aggressive. Also, when hitting approach shots from a distance, aim for the middle of the green. The flat surfaces are not overly large and the middle of the green is the safest place to hit with a reasonable chance to sink his putt. Again he took all my advice under consideration and will make a game day decision on which shots to make and when.

Lastly, we discussed deciding on his shot and making it with confidence. He has worked very hard on developing a pre-shot routine this year, aiming at a small target and picking landing areas when chipping. All these processes have made him a more confident golfer. I think if he follows through what what he was practicing, he will be qualify for the next level of the school competitions.

Fairways and greens were the largest discussion topic of conversation. If Alex stays calm and plays the way I know he can, I think he has a chance of winning the entire tournament. Play well, Alex.

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