Tee Shots


Approach your tee shot positively. It will set up the next few strokes. If you are tense, take a deep breath before setting up. Make sure you use a tee. Pick the best club to get the job done.

Always use an intermediate target. Remember that fairway position is more important than distance. Your goal is to place your tee shot in the most advan-tageous position for your next shot.

Keep your backswing weight on the inside of right foot to reduce swaying. Concentrate on hitting the ball squarely. You will have fewer off center hits and your tee shots will be more consistent.


Purpose
  1. To approach your tee shots with a plan of action. Do not always assume the driver is the best club to hit. First, decide where you want the ball to land to position you best for your next shot. Then, pick the best club to safely get you to that spot. Ball position is more important than distance, the short grass in the fairway will give you a better lie than the longer grass in the rough. On tight holes you may have to play your fade or draw by aiming at the edge of the rough and playing your normal curving shot back into the fairway. On your tee shot tee your ball up on the side where the trouble is and then you can aim away from the trouble and have a larger margin of error.
  2. To stick to the proven basics when the pressure is on. We are frequently faced with an audience on the tee and it is easy to tense up. Think rhythm and tempo to keep your muscles and swing flowing smoothly. Swing "within yourself" by going with 80% power to help retain control. Remember the ideal tempo for you is the speed at which you are under control. A good shoulder turn naturally sets the club in the correct position, and the club face will rotate automatically and square at impact. Learn the proper mechanics, practice them. Build them into your swing "memory" so they become automatic. Do not try to be too mechanical.

Do's and Don'ts
Do not break the wrists too soon or you will have the club at the top before the shoulders are fully turned. Do keep the right arm close to the body to encourage an inside to outside swingpath.

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