The Missing Champion for Canadian Professional Golfers

The talk on Facebook over the holidays has been the lack of support in Canada for its elite professional golfers. The question is: "Why"?

Why do other countries like Sweden and Australia, for example, lend more of a helping hand than Canada? Why in Canada do we keep building the pipeline at the front end without finishing the job after young amateurs turn pro?

I remember Jerry Anderson giving a speech at my fund-raising event when I first started my pro career. He painted a dismal picture of the struggle of talented Canadian professional golfers. Most had to give up their dreams during the 70s, 80s and 90s. It was a sink or swim environment. Still is.

Things are brightening up a bit with five guys on the PGA. But "Owning the Podium" in a big way can't happen without organized effort. Canada's success at the 2010 Winter Olympics sure pointed that out.

Most good ideas take off when there is one person who takes the bull by the horn and ties all the pieces together. Maybe that's what we need in Canada.

The Liberation of Knowing

I know that perseverance is what will count in the long run for success at anything. I have plenty of that. But the how of getting there can be frustrating. “I just don’t get it” I have mumbled to myself a lot when my tee shot takes a hike. It’s hard to see myself. So, a coach’s eye is what I depend on.

I have had plenty of help for which I am really grateful. And help comes at the most surprising times.

Recently I was staying at a friend’s place. He’s a teaching golf pro who took notice of my frustration with “not knowing”. Immediately he thought of a guy in his network who is knows the stack and tilt method.

I feel fortunate that his friend took some time with me. He observed that my swing is fine. The problem is that I did not understand well enough what makes the ball do what it does. He told me why. Gave me some drills. The result: more control over the ball no matter the situation. It was liberating.

In looking back, my coaches and buddies have told me the same thing. The difference is that I was ready to hear it and to take the knowledge in. There is a time and place for everything.

Feeling More Natural

Until recently, spraying shots off into the bushes on a regular basis has made me long for the “good old days”. When I was an amateur, things seemed more natural, smooth and predictable. Now, I am back to that.

Part of the problem was that I just plain started to think too much. I realize now that it had a lot to do with not being in a coaching environment where I could get a lot of feedback----when I needed it and often.

My amateur days at Kent State and during the summers with RCGA were filled with lots of “tough love”. I lapped it up. But left on my own since---long gaps in seeing my coaches---I have tried to patch things up in my golf game. It’s been me talking to me too much!

Anyway, I am getting more frequent feedback now. It’s exactly what I need. I’m thinking less and feeling things more.