Our Historic Golf CoursesYour tee time awaits at Seaview; home of the 1942 PGA Championship.

Instruction: Begin the year by checking your grip. A neutral grip ensures better control over your shots. Hold the club with your left hand (for right-handed golfers) so that the “V” formed by your thumb and index finger points towards your right shoulder. Place your right hand over your left, ensuring both “V” shapes point in the same direction. Your grip should be firm but relaxed to avoid unnecessary tension.

Instruction: Good posture is essential for a consistent swing. Stand tall with your feet shoulder-width apart. Bend slightly from your hips, not your waist, keeping your back straight. Your knees should be flexed slightly. Hold your arms naturally in front of you, and tilt from your hips until your hands are just above the ground. This allows for a natural swing and helps prevent injury.

Instruction: The backswing is the foundation for a strong shot. As you begin your backswing, focus on a smooth, controlled motion. Turn your shoulders fully while keeping your arms and hands relaxed. Your weight should shift to your back foot as you rotate, with your clubhead staying on plane. Ensure you don’t overswing – a compact and controlled backswing leads to better consistency.

Instruction: Spend time refining your chipping and pitching skills. For chipping, use a pitching wedge or sand wedge and keep your hands slightly ahead of the ball. Use a short, controlled swing with your body and arms moving in unison. For pitching, focus on a more sweeping motion with a longer swing to help get under the ball for a higher, softer landing. Spend 10-15 minutes every practice session working on these essential shots.

Instruction: Tension can ruin your swing. When you step up to the ball, consciously relax your hands, arms, and shoulders. Take a deep breath and focus on a smooth, rhythmic motion. A relaxed swing allows for better flexibility, accuracy, and consistency. Try to visualize the shot you want to make rather than thinking about mechanics to stay calm and fluid.

Instruction: Good putting is all about consistency. Begin by reading the green and identifying the break. Once you have your line, stand with your eyes directly over the ball and keep your arms close to your body. Use a pendulum motion with your shoulders for a smooth, controlled stroke. Focus on hitting the ball with the center of the putter face to maintain accuracy. Practice both short and long putts to develop a reliable stroke.

Instruction: A consistent tempo is key to solid ball striking. Focus on having a smooth, fluid motion rather than rushing your swing. Start with a slow backswing, then accelerate smoothly through the ball with your hips and shoulders driving the motion. The goal is a balanced rhythm, not speed. Record your swing or practice with a metronome to keep your tempo steady.

Instruction: Control your distances by focusing on the feel of each shot. Know how far you hit each club and practice with different shot lengths (half swings, ¾ swings, etc.). On the range, use markers to simulate real distances and challenge yourself to hit to those targets with different clubs. Understanding your club distances allows you to be more strategic and confident on the course.

Instruction: Golf is a mental game, so staying calm and focused is crucial. When you hit a bad shot, avoid frustration. Take a deep breath and refocus on your next shot. Use positive self-talk, like "I can do this" or "One shot at a time," to stay in the present moment. Visualize your ideal shot before you hit it. Mental strength is often what separates good golfers from great ones.

Instruction: Play smart and strategically. Before hitting each shot, assess the layout of the hole and choose the best club for the situation. Consider hazards, wind, and your position on the course. Sometimes, it’s better to lay up and play for a safe approach than to try and hit a risky shot. Think ahead to your next shot and avoid unnecessary risks.

Instruction: A good follow-through ensures that you’re finishing your swing with balance and power. After striking the ball, continue your swing with your chest facing the target. Your weight should shift fully onto your front foot, and your hands should extend toward the target. A complete follow-through helps ensure you make solid contact and maintain accuracy on your shots.