Paired with Strangers? Keep Calm and Be Selfish

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The PGA Tour is headed up the road for a fun filled week at the AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am. Aside from the breath taking views encountered on the course rotation, PGA Tour players will be paired with amateurs in a Pro-Am format. It can be tough to play with someone who has a drastically different golfing ability, so here’s two sure ways to keep unknown playing partners from getting in the way of your success!

AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am - Round Three

Don’t Critique Other Swings

Keep your eye on your own ball (and swing). No matter your ability, good or bad, don’t watch or critique another golfer’s swing. The other golfer may have physical gifts or limitations as to why they swing a certain way. Just because that motion works for them, doesn’t mean it’ll work for you. Another reason to not watch those swings; tempo! If you have a slower, smooth tempo and the other golfer has a fast, aggressive tempo, then subconsciously you may start swinging harder or faster than normal.

Stick to Your Swing Thought

If you know you’re getting paired with some new golfers, be sure to keep your swing thoughts in mind throughout the round, and not theirs. Focusing on your game is the best way to block out others.

Quick Recap

1. Don’t Critique Other Swings – It’s ok to turn your head and not watch someone’s swing. Stick to your game plan.

2. Stick to Your Swing Thought – Don’t let other’s misfortunes take over your game.

Looking for more swing advice? Learn how to putt, hit the ball further, and master playing in the wind from our PGA Professionals!

Ryan Spaziani

Ryan Spaziani has been a Class “A” member of the PGA of America since 2012. He graduated from the Professional Golfers Career College in Orlando, FL with an Associate Degree in Professional Golf Management. He has worked for both private and public golf courses in the Raleigh, North Carolina. Ryan has a strong passion and extensive knowledge for teaching, club fitting and growing the game of golf.