The Value of a Good Golf Swing

S and J have just finished up a great five week golf program at our club called First Tee and I couldn't be prouder of them.  They both have fallen in love with golf, and I am thinking this might be the sport at which S really excels. Because they had such a great experience, neither son is interested in fall baseball as they would rather concentrate on improving their golf swing.  They will be completing the next level as well as taking lessons from the pro instead.  ...I am hoping they will also continue their focus on another aspect of the program.

Not only does First Tee teach fundamentals of golf, it incorporates nine core values (good old traditional values) in the instruction.  At the end of the program, they were even tested on them to see that they cognitively understand what they mean.

1. Honesty - the quality or state of being truthful; not deceptive
Golf is unique from other sports in that players regularly call penalties on themselves and report their own score.
2. Integrity - strict adherence to a standard of value or conduct; personal honesty and independence  Golf is a game of etiquette and composure.  Players are responsible for their actions and personal conduct on the golf course even at times when others may not be looking.
   
3. Sportsmanship - observing the rules of play and winning or losing with grace
   Players must know and abide by the rules of golf and be able to conduct themselves in a kind and respectful manner towards others even in a competitive game.
   
4. Respect - to feel or show deferential regard for; esteem
   In golf it is important to show respect for oneself, playing partners, fellow competitors, the golf course, and for the honor and traditions of the game.
   
5. Confidence - reliance or trust. A feeling of self-assurance  Confidence plays a key role in the level of play that one achieves.  Players can increase confidence in their abilities by being positive and focusing on something they are doing well regardless of the outcome.
   
6. Responsibility - accounting for one’s actions; dependable  Players are responsible for their actions on the golf course.  It is up to them to keep score, repair divots, rake bunkers, repair ball marks on the green, and keep up with the pace of play.
   
7. Perseverance - to persist in an idea, purpose or task despite obstacles  To succeed in golf, players must continue through bad breaks and their own mistakes, while learning from past experiences.
   
8. Courtesy - considerate behavior toward others;a polite remark or gesture  A round of golf should begin and end with a handshake between fellow competitors. Players also should be still and quiet while others are preparing and performing a shot.
   
9. Judgment - the ability to make a decision or form an opinion; a decision reached after consideration  Using good judgment is very important in golf. It comes into play when deciding on strategy, club selection, when to play safe and when to take a chance, the type of shot players consider executing, as well as making healthy choices on and off the golf course.

What great lessons and values to take wherever they go!

Here are my two pros at the driving range of our club.

Golf clap... golf clap...