Teachingu2golf.com

Remember your fundamentals Part 1

2010-05-13T09:41:00.004-04:00

As many of you know, I'M A FREAK FOR FUNDAMENTALS.

This is part 1 of a series of post which I will re-confirm, stress, educate the best I know how about the fundamentals of a good golf swing. Part 1 will be on the grip.

Prior to reading please understand my terminology of target hand and trail hand. The target hand is the hand closest to the target and the trail hand is the hand that trails the target. I use these terms because I have students who are right handed and left handed.

Grip

The grip is your only connection to the golf club. You don't hold it in the feet, hips or toes, you hold it in the fingers. I like to say fingers, because the biggest mistake I see is too many people holding the handle of the club in the hand or palm. If your were going to throw a baseball or wiffle ball, you would hold it in the fingers in order to send it. Same with the golf club, you should find in more in the fingers.

The best way I have seen students place the handle in their fingers is when they allow their target hand to hang down by their side. Just relaxed with no tension, then bring the club to their side as well and feel the fingers on the club and softly close the hand. The target hand should bring the club forward, in front of them and you should see at least two knuckels on the target hand and the pad of your hand should be on top of the club. Please understand, this is not the pad under the thumb, but the pad right of your lifeline for right handers and left of the lifeline for left handers.
I want to stress, excuse me, encourage (stress and tension free should not be used in the same sentence) you to always be tension free when applying your grip.

Now that you have your target hand on the handle, we will apply your trail hand.
There are 3 ways to grip the club
1. Ten finger, where all fingers are on the club- I find this a good grip for juniors and any women or men with small hands or short fingers.
2. Overlap, where the trail pinky overlaps the trigger finger of the target hand. A preferance used by men or women
3. Interlock, where the trail pinky interlocks the trigger finger of the target hand. A preference used by men or women

The role of the trail hand is to help guide the club. It should have very little influence. I ask students to imagine the thumb of the target hand to be "the car". I would then have them take the trail hand and place the fingers on the handle about 5 inches above the trail hand and "slide the car into the garage". If you do this, in order to "slide" the car into the garage, you must have a soft relax grip. I think this encourages the student to be aware of the grip pressure they are applying.

The picture above is a good visual of a good grip.
I welcome your comments and encourage you to let me know if this blog posting was helpful or confusing. Feel free to ask questions as well.
Next post will be on Set-Up

"FUELING" yourself before your round of golf.

2010-01-30T13:13:00.007-05:00

I have heard this comment several times recently, "I lose it on the back 9" or “I run out of steam and focus towards the end of the round" How you "fuel" yourself prior, and during the round is so important. Imagine feeling your car up with the wrong type of gas, after a while your car would start to malfunction. It's the same with your body. Your body and mind need the right amount of protein and carbs. To get your through a round of golf. I remember the days I used to "fuel" up at the turn with a hot dog. I would find myself ready to fall asleep by the 13th hole, and all the time wondering what was going on. Hot dogs are in my mind the worse thing to eat during the round. It takes a lot of energy to break up all the substances in hot dog. And as far as a good source of protein or energy, it's not really a good choice.Good Choices- breakfast- eggs, fruit, oatmeal, yogurtat the turn/lunch- nuts, smoothie, veggy or chicken salad wrapI love just carrying some good trail mix or almonds and eat a few during the round. I also enjoy bananas and find them to be the "perfect" snack.I also encourage my students playing in competition, especially when it's hot, to remember to hydrate themselves days before the round. I have had people say that they drink a lot of water during the round to make sure they are hydrated. Making sure you drink plenty of water days prior to the match is most important.So, make sure you’re aware of what you’re eating before and during your day of golf and if it's not what it should be.....think of "fueling up" with the right grade!

Your kids and what to expect....

2009-09-17T10:08:00.004-04:00

What should you expect from your kids when they are taking golf lessons?

1) You should expect them to have fun!

2) You should expect them to be in a group that is small enough for them to feel they are getting the attention they deserve.

3) You should expect them to walk away with some knowledge of the vocabulary of golf and rules and etiquette.

4) You should expect them to have a chance to develop relationships and oppourtunities that keep them playing.

These are my initial goals for introducing kids to golf. I also encourage social skills during my sessions, in a way they understand.

I love it when parents are eager to see their children play golf! It's great to see kids start the game at an early age, but we must remember, their kids!

It's so important that they enjoy what their doing, more so than shooting par. (that comes later)
Make it fun and keep their interest!!!

The future of the game.

2009-09-10T09:24:00.004-04:00

Summer is coming to an end and I am amazed how fast it went, and how much my students accomplished this season.
As many of you know, the majority of students that I have in the summer time are juniors.
One of my focuses this year was to introduce younger kids to the game. How do I do that and keep them interested? That was the challenge!
The age group I'm referring to is 5-6, I even had some 4 year olds. I was amazed how well they did and how much fun it was for me.
I mixed the 5 and 6 year olds with ages of 7-9. I used the older kids to be role models and let them know that as well. I really think they enjoyed being the "older kids".
I used agility drills and exercises to work on eye/hand coordination.
With kids of this age, I found you always have to be moving, there can never be a dull moment!
That keeps me on my toes!!
The one thing I said so often is, "this is the future of this game", juniors. The earlier they start and have fun with it, the better they will be, and the more time they will have to spend playing this wonderful game!!
So thanks to all your parents for choosing me to be the one to introduce them to the game, a game of a lifetime!

greetings from 'tucket!

2009-06-27T10:38:00.004-04:00

Kim, Was thinking of you and just wanted to say hi, I haven't been out to play since getting here - weather has not been great- but am planning to start next week - really! I think a golfapallooza sounds like a great addition to everything at Windstar! It sounds like you're busy and having a ball! Don't forget the roadtrip back to FL next fall! Miss you!! love, gayle

Gayle,
I just saw this post. No one was writing or viewing it, so I gave up checking it. Thanks for checking in....sorry to be late in responding!

A recent e-mail I received....from a reliable source...

2009-06-03T08:28:00.002-04:00

I get asked the question all the time, is a heavier putter better on faster greens?... I usually say, "It depends on the individual, but most people say "Yes"

Here is a recent e-mail I received from my friend Karen and she is a source I trust!

I found out something interesting concerning putters. I was asking about the best putter for fast greens - should it be heavy or light weight. The recommendation was that the putter weight is less important than the putter face material. Stats show that for the non professional golfer playing on country club greens, the putters like the Odessy are more reliable because of the softer face. Because the ball off the face will not not roll as fast, more than likely the putt will be short of the hole. On fast greens, being short of the hole actually decreases the number of 3 putts. Interesting....

2009-05-29T14:36:00.001-04:00

Dayton Dragons Game Night

2009-05-26T09:11:00.003-04:00

Below is myself with my nephew Cameron at the Dayton Dragons game. I grew up watching the Reds and enjoying baseball. This night brought me back to those days. We had about 25 family members together, including my dad and mom.
Great night.....Thanks Pat for organizing it!

Back in Ohio

2009-05-20T11:07:00.003-04:00

Hi to all,
This is an update.
I am back in Ohio. Travels back home took me to Brooksville,Florida,Pinehurst,NC, Northern Ky and Cincinnati to see family, Dayton, Ohio for a Dragon game and home to Columbus. It was a relaxing trip home. I have to say Pinehurst was great. No golf...yes I said no golf. Good food and nice walks and shopping.
Mrs. Richardson, Sherman and Stephens, I did stop at Pine Needles. They were doing one of their Golfari's. I did not get to speak to anyone.
Carol Thompson was speaking in the evening and Donna Andrews was helping with the school.

Hey, I'm thinking of doing a 3-4 day golf school here. Anyone interested??
Sometime this summer.
Let me know your thoughts!

Miss everyone at Windstar..hope this finds everyone well!

"Girls-Sunset Happy Hour"

2009-05-03T10:35:00.000-04:00

Pictures

2009-05-03T09:59:00.006-04:00

2009-04-19T12:52:00.003-04:00

Hi Kim
Thanks for the invite to join the blog. Great to see what everyone has been doing. Love all the pics. The Spring Fling sounds like it was a great success. Going to start my golf lessons soon with the gal who is the golf pro at Hamilton Golf and Country. Between your lessons and hers I hope to be ready for some fun golf games when we get back to Windstar. Doug and I have found the club to be so very friendly, lots of great people. We are back in May for a bit, will look for you and anyone else who is still around. All the best during the summer months. P. Phillips

2009-04-19T11:32:00.002-04:00

Hi Kim, Hope we can keep in touch over the summer and that you're "road to Naples, fall '09" trip will come true! We'd love to see you. g.

I want to hear from you!

2009-04-19T10:20:00.003-04:00

I would love to have some interaction on my blog. Blog about your winter at Windstar, your visit to Florida, if you took the clinics, what did you like, dis-like. This blog is a way for me to keep in touch, share ideas and keep connected.
I invite any and all to blog your thoughts. I'm headed back to Ohio soon and will continue my blogging.
If your a present student, past student, friend, family member....share whats going on in your life.

Thanks and as my dad loves to hear....."HAVE A NICE DAY"

ps...Colleen...what about this picture? better than the other?

2009-04-19T08:17:00.001-04:00

The Women of Windstar....what a great group!

2009-04-19T08:10:00.005-04:00

Mrs. Schumaker, we are going to miss you!!!

Thanks to all the committee members for all the hard work, what a great success this tournament was!
Mrs. LaMore....see you at Home!

By the looks of this photo, you would have thought the event was played in December. But it was April. The weather in Naples has been great. This just happened to be one of the chilly mornings. It warmed up nicely throughout the day. Great smiles!!!

"Girls Just Want to Have Fun!"

2009-04-19T08:01:00.002-04:00

Jacqui and Katrinia, thanks for the opportunity to work with you both! I had a blast watching you both play as well. Keep in touch...let us all know how your progress is going. Hope your finding some time to play this summer.
I love this photo! Thanks Mrs. Luksha for the sharing your great photography skills!

Mrs. Potts at it again!

2009-04-18T22:57:00.004-04:00

Mrs. Potts was known for her misbehaving during the clinics. We now have the photo to prove it!

SPRING FLING AT WINDSTAR 2009

2009-04-18T22:30:00.007-04:00

"Spring Fling" 2009 at Windstar

Here are some of the photo's I took during the ending event for the 9 holers. I can not express just how amazing this group is, and how much fun I had working with you all. It not only was a pleasure, but a great learning experience for me. Thanks for welcoming me and making feel so at home. I can't wait to see you all next year!!

I was truly fortunate to be a part of a great staff at Windstar. Above is Kevin, assistant pro and Dan our fearless leader!! I go away this summer gaining great knowledge from both of you. Dan's great sense of humor and calming approach made it a comfortable atmosphere to be in all season. Both, like the rest of the staff, take great pride in caring for the members.

I really appreciate the time you both took in helping me along the way!

THE FINAL CLINIC

2009-04-17T23:11:00.000-04:00

On the day of the Spring Fling, the below story was read at the luncheon. On each table was a golf ball. While the story was being read by Mrs. Potts, when she mentioned the word LEFT, the person with the ball would pass it to the left. When she said the word RIGHT, it was passed to the right. When the word across was mentioned, the ball was passed across the table. The purpose of this is explained at the end of the story.
I was laughing the whole time, how clever....how very clever. This group of ladies, are so talented and creative. Mrs. Potts and Mrs. Merryman wrote the story. Thank you both for taking the time to put together such a entertaining story. It was well scripted!!! I wanted Drew to be able to read it, I know he'll get a kick out of it. In the picture below you can see the centerpieces which were put together by a very talented women. Mrs. Mundth not only paints but creates such pieces as the one you see below. Great job Mrs. Mundth!

It was a sunny Thursday morning in Naples, and Kim LEFT her house on the way to Windstar for her 9-holer clinic. She turned LEFT at a stoplite and then remembered that she had LEFT her nephew Drew at the house!! (Drew was visiting during Spring Break, and Kim planned to take him along to the Club that day) Anyway, Kim made a RIGHT turn, then another RIGHT to get back to the house. Drew was RIGHT in front of the garage waiting for her, and he walked STRAIGHT ACROSS the street and got into the RIGHT side of the car. Kim reminded him to fasten his seat belt from RIGHT to LEFT, and off they went. She turned LEFT at the corner and then LEFT again to get on the RIGHT road. When she turned RIGHT off of Bayshore into Windstar Kim had to use the LEFT gate because the RIGHT gate was not working. She hurried to the Clubhouse to pick up her training aids since she only had 10 minutes LEFT before the clinic would begin. She needed to check her notes so got RIGHT to it and finished with 3 minutes LEFT.

Kim LEFT Drew at the putting green and headed to the driving range for the clinic. Today's clinic would be the final one of the season, and Kim planned to review information from several previous clinics.First Kim reviewed how to grip the club, reminding the ladies to place the club in the LEFT hand, then gently wrap the RIGHT hand around it. However, for the LEFT handers like Mrs. Leverte she had to reverese the instructions for LEFT and RIGHT.Kim then disscussed alignment, telling the ladies to stand behind the ball as if they were taking a picture, find something STRAIGHT ACROSS about 3 feet out, then line up to that target when addressing the ball. She had to correct Mrs. Mead several times, who kept hitting her shots to the RIGHT and the RIGHT and the RIGHT time after time.The final drill was on improving distance. Kim handed Mrs. Harris a broom and instructed her to sweep the broom from RIGHT to Left and listen for the swoosh. She told Mrs. Harris to repeat this several times...swoosh RIGHT to LEFT, RIGHT to LEFT, RIGHT to LEFT. Of course, with Mrs. Gadkowski being LEFT-handed everything was the opposite for her, so Mrs. Gadkowski did the broom from LEFT to RIGHT, LEFT to RIGHT, LEFT to RIGHT.At the end of the clinic the ladies asked Kim "How did we do?" Her response was "I am very proud of you". You did everything RIGHT and LEFT nothing to chance.

At that moment Drew came running up from the putting green with a confused look on his face. He grabbed Kim's arm and said, "Aunt Kim, the ladies here at Windstar talk really funny". Kim asked him what he meant and he said there was a group of ladies over by the putting green waiting to attend the 12:00 clinic. Drew said "I overheard them talking and they don't make any sense. A lady named Mrs. Schumaker was telling the others that "if the tick tock doesn’t work she'll try the swoosh swoosh, and if all else fails she'll carry the bird's nest with her". Alas, Kim realized that she had more work LEFT to do.Well, that's the end of the story, and there is only on thing LEFT to say....if you are holding the yellow golf ball at this point you'll take the centerpiece home today.
The End

Ok....it's been a while, but I'm back blogging!

2009-04-06T18:03:00.004-04:00

I recently had a very special visitor to Naples. My nephew, Drew came to visit for a few days. Above is Drew playing a few holes at Windstar. Drew was visiting from Northern Kentucky and here during his spring break.

Sweeping the tee???

2008-12-23T09:43:00.002-05:00

Mrs. Richardson and Mrs.McCarthy "swinging the broom". This was a drill we worked on to help increase distance. I will re-do the "Desire for Distance" clinic in January.

December in Naples!!!

2008-12-23T09:32:00.001-05:00

This is what we do in Naples in the middle of December. Just wanted my northern friends and family to be jealous!!
Pictures above are of some members of the 9 hole lady's league.

Parrots in Paradise...

2008-11-28T11:52:00.004-05:00

These pictures I took near the 6th hole at Windstar. This is what is left of a palm tree. It looks to me that the woodpeckers went to town on this tree. In doing so, they have provided endless hours of entertainment for other birds. If you double click on any picture, it will show it as a larger image.
Enjoy!

WINTER AT WINDSTAR

2008-11-28T11:31:00.004-05:00

This winter I will be at Windstar on Naples Bay. It is a private club located on Naples Bay. I am excited to be here and look forward to a great season!!

Tuesday Mornings at Windstar

2008-11-28T11:22:00.003-05:00

Even though were in Florida, we have morning of cooler temps. Above are some pictures of the 9 hole group. I have enjoyed meeting you all and look forward to the ladies that will be completing the group coming in Jan.

WINTER SEASON....WHERE WILL I BE???

2008-10-12T22:25:00.004-04:00

Hi to all,

I have appreciated the interest and questions about my plans for the winter season.

I am in limbo right now and hoping to have everything firmed up by the end of the week.

My goal is to be down south, and back at the end of April.

Stay tuned.....

PICTURE OF THE MONTH
DO YOU BELIEVE THAT IS A GOLF BALL
THE GOLDFISH HAS SWALLOWED?

Congratulations Nic and John!

2008-08-25T05:19:00.003-04:00

Congratulations to Nic and John for 19 putts on Friday. They had a playoff and Nic won.

GolfAPalooza League underway!!

2008-08-25T05:06:00.002-04:00

Here are some pictures from Fridays start of the GolfAPalooza League at Rolling Meadows.

A SUCCESS STORY

2008-08-18T11:57:00.004-04:00

I would like to acknowledge Nikki Watermeyer.

Nikki started taking lessons a year in a half ago.

She is entering High School at Worthing Kilbourne this year and has made the golf team.

Nikki's dedication has been exceptional. She has done everything possible to get better.

She for the last two seasons has participated in my Friday night GolfaPalooza league, continued with lessons this past winter with Tom Brock while I was in Naples and took advantage of all the "optional" practices with the team this summer.

Her "SUCCESS STORY" is her own! I acknowledge her for that reason. Success comes from dedication, perseverance and patience.

Nikki, Congratulations, on YOUR success!!

Your an inspiration to others!

Thanks Alex and Sherman!

2008-08-18T11:34:00.005-04:00

People often ask me...."How often do you play golf?" Not much is my normal answer.
But this summer was different.
Two of my students, Alex and Sherman, had goals to make their middle school golf teams.
Their parents/grandparents and I put together a plan which included lessons and playing sessions. This started after school let out in early June.
We played the courses in which they would have to play for try outs.
I HAD A BLAST!!!
Along with Shermans grandfather, they were my weekly foursome. I walked with them playing the courses and played from the whites. Some of these courses were quite challenging, and fortunate for me, the weather stayed bareable!
I am very happy to report, that both made their teams!!! I am very proud of their dedication and willingness to listen and learn.
Also, would like to report, my game has improved just being able to play this summer.
I hope Sherman and Alex will keep us updated with how the season goes!
THANKS GUYS FOR A GREAT SUMMER OF GOLF!!

The Coaches

2008-08-18T11:27:00.004-04:00

Pictured below is Head Coach Brian Riegel, me and Coach Jeffrey Hollaran
(That is NOT a coach on the left of Coach Riegal!)
Worthington Kilbourne has a Varsity team and B team and Coach Riegal has been intrumental in bringing golf to the middle schools.
The cubs (middle school team) sometimes practices with us.
I'll keep you updated!

Worthington Kilbourne Girls Golf Team Practice

2008-08-18T11:11:00.005-04:00

I know it's been a while since I have blogged. It's been a busy summer and have really enjoyed working with everyone this summer.
It's the start of another golf season for the High Schools.
Below are some recent pictures from Team practice at Ables.
Coach Riegel doesn't pull any punches when it comes to the rules of Golf.
The girls were given a 18 questions test about the rules of golf. You were allowed to use the rules book, for any question you got wrong, you had to run 1 lap around the tee box.
After the 3rd lap, the other players were able to chip balls at you. Your only protection......a basket over your head!
Below are some pictures...enjoy!

CSG SPRING LESSONS

2008-05-02T10:19:00.004-04:00

For the past three years Laurel and I have worked with the Columbus School for Girls middle school students. I have enjoyed the enthusiasm of the girls and their interest in the game.

Below are some recent photo's taken at Ables.

Girls, if your viewing this, let me know what the lessons have meant to you.

RULES QUESTION

2008-05-02T10:16:00.001-04:00

Do you have a rules question? If so, e-mail me with it and I'll post it on this blog.
hilby3@aol.com

During play, my partner's ball ended up in a hazard, but it was playable. Before he hit his shot, he took three practice swings. Each time, his clubhead brushed the grass inside the hazard line. Is there a penalty for this?

The "Note" under Rule 13-4 states that when a player's ball is in a hazard, it's okay for her or his club to touch grass, brush or other natural growth, as long as she or he doesn't ground the club (let it rest on the ground).

Playing Sessions, Are they helpful?

2008-05-01T12:54:00.005-04:00

I thought I would write about the Playing Sessions I offer for Adult Students. I offer 9 hole playing sessions at Wilson Rd. They are $50 per session and include green fees and pull cart.

These are geared for those who have played golf and have had lessons. I assist the student with club selection, alignment, etiquette and rules. But the biggest help Ifeel these sessions offer is around the green.

The shots around the green can be the difference of shooting 60 or 48. I find most people want to hit high shots when in fact, a low shot leaves less room for error.

I once heard my fellow teaching pro, Laurel Dieken, tell someone, "when you can putt it, putt it, if you can't putt it, hit a low shot (chip) LAST RESORT...hit a high shot (pitch)" I found that advice to be some of the most important I have every heard. And I use it with my students, but I scream....the last part of it.

The last two weeks Donna Grimes as organized a few of the ladies from her league for the playing sessions. Below are some pictures from last week. I would love to hear comments from anyone who has done any of my playing sessions. I'm interested in hearing what you have gotten out of the sessions.

Feel free to post your comments.

OH.................IO

2008-04-20T13:03:00.005-04:00

This is how I spent part of my Saturday. I helped out with officiating the LADY BUCKEYE INVITATIONAL.
It was a day that had I had a tee time.....I would have cancelled it. Raining off and on and cold.
It was exciting to see the girls play. Penn State, Wisconsin, Northwestern, Illinois, Toledo, Michigan State were just a few participating.
As of this morning, the LADY BUCKEYES were in second place.
Below is the link for more information.

http://www.ohiostatebuckeyes.com/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=17300&ATCLID=1444205

E-MAILS FROM FLORIDA

2008-04-20T12:23:00.004-04:00

I am so excited to post these e-mails below. I wanted to share them on my blog, because this group of people at Forest Glen have become near and dear to my heart. I can not express enough how much I enjoyed meeting and working with the membership there.
So...keep those e-mails coming and let me know how your doing!!!

Kim,

Just wanted to say "hi" and let you know that I was thinking about you. Hope all is going well.
Guess what? I "finally" got my first birdie today. I was really nervous when it came my turn to putt. I thought, oh no, I am going to blow this. But, to my surprise and probably everyone else's, the little white ball went in the cup. And, I have you to thank for it. I can hear you say "keep your head still and keep it down". Thanks so much.
Take care and keep in touch. Good luck with your students this season.
Georgia

Georgia,
Thanks for the news! I am so proud of you and know your confidence will continue to grow. How I laughed reading this!!! You almost talked your self right out of making that! Remember to focus on what you want, not what you don't want!!!!
Thanks for making my time at FG an enjoyable one. You ALWAYS made me smile!

Hi Kim,
I just had to share this with you. Yesterday at Heritage Bay on the Oak-Pine Course (slope 123) I shot under 100 for the the first time (score 98). Certainly it helped to have a lot fewer penalty strokes because of the design of this course but most important was the fact that the ball was going where I wanted it to go. And that's thanks to you!
I really enjoyed our sessions and will always value your help. I can't say that enough. Thanks!
Hopefully the winter is waning in Ohio and you can get back to your golf. Have a great summer and let us know when you're back next fall.
Cheers!
John
John,
WOW...this is great news to hear! I tell people daily of your success! And you can thank me all you want, but YOU are the one who made the difference. Your questions and conversations helped make me a better teacher.
Thanks and keep me posted!

MY PICTURE OF THE WEEK

2008-04-19T07:52:00.003-04:00

I was looking through some recent pictures I had taken and found this one. This was taken at Callway gardens.
Give me your suggestion for a caption!

What so great about Hybrids?

2008-04-18T08:40:00.006-04:00

I was recently asked "What is so great about Hybrids, everyone is talking about them?"

Their GREAT!!!

The majority of the weight in these clubs is in the back. Because there's so much more weight behind the ball, even if you hit slightly behind the ball with a hybrid, the club is going to swing on through .The best thing since sliced bread! (did I just say that?...I'm turning into my mother)

I thought I would blog and answer some questions about the club and how to use it.

What is a hybrid?

A hybrid golf club is half iron, half wood.

What does it replace?

It has replaced many of the longer irons in your bag and in my opinion the 3 and 5 wood.

Can you hit a hybrid as far as a 3 wood?

What I have found in watching people play is that the 3 wood for most people is not consistent.

While doing several playing sessions this winter, I asked students when choosing a 3 wood to hit, why? The response was, "I need to hit a long shot...I have a long way to the green" My response would be "Do you think you'll get there with this club?" They most often would answer with "will when I hit it good, I have a chance" I would then ask "How often do you hit it good?"

Their response "not very".

How can you gain confidence with a club that you don't have total belief in?

The number one goal for most of the people I teach is consistency. They want to become more consistent in their shot making. I truly believe that the hybrid is easier to hit then a 5 or 3 wood. I truly believe that anyone would have more success with it and therefore I truly believe it's the club that will allow you to become more consistent especially with the longer shots to the green. SUCCESS BREEDS CONFIDENCE!

For the hybrid, your stance width should be the same as for a longer iron. Your ball position is forward if center, but not quite so forward as it would be for a traditional fairway wood.

If your hybrid is the length of a mid iron, position it in the center.

Let me know if you have questions about hybrids by e-mailing me at hilby3@aol.com

CONGRATULATIONS JULIE!!!

2008-04-15T14:51:00.002-04:00

A Big Congrats to Julie Lechner.

I had the pleasure to watch her play in Ocala a couple of weeks ago.

Julie, your swing looks great and It was so much fun watching you.

Julie shot a 80-76 to take 13th place.

Julie competed with the finest of talent, 6 under won the tournament!!

These girls got game!!

Julie participated this past weekend in a Plantation Tour event at Cook's Creek.

Congratulations on your 3rd place finish!

Julie.....maybe you could share with those coming up on how you prepare for a tournament and what steps you have taken over the years to get to where your at!

ONE OF MY FAVORITE TIMES OF THE YEAR!!

2008-04-10T16:18:00.003-04:00

It's Masters Week.
One of the few times I love to sit myself down in front of the television and watch for hours.
I love the limited commercials and enjoy the play and the sites of the golf course.
Yesterday for the first time they televised the Par 3 tournament. What a great time for the players. It was good to see Phil interact with his 5 year old son. Coody make a hole in one in front of his 8 year old grandsons.
They also are allowing kids 8-17 to come into the tournament free with a accredited patron.
Many thanks to those in charge for recognizing the future of this game is with our youth!!
Enjoy the golf and if you get a chance check out the web site.
WWW.THEMASTERS.COM

Back in Ohio

2008-04-05T18:36:00.004-04:00

It is Saturday April 5th and I am back in Ohio.
The temp is 60 degrees and sunny. The rest of the weekend is looking good as far as the weather.
I took a week to travel back. Made a stop along the way at Callaway Gardens. Above are some pictures of the gardens.

Pictures from the "eclipse"

2008-02-24T07:00:00.000-05:00

One more month.....

2008-02-24T06:45:00.007-05:00

I am coming to the end of my stay here in Naples. I really feel blessed to have had the oppourtunity to find a very special place at Forest Glen. I have enjoyed the time and look forward to the chance of coming back next year. Along with the members, I will miss the unique wild life here in Naples. The bottom two pictures above are wild turkeys. And I'm not sure what the top bird is, but know one of my nephews will let me know. At the age of 46, I for the first time, know what a eagle sounds like.....How exciting is that!!!

I will be leaving Naples around the first of April. SO one more month to enjoy the people and birds!!!...Oh, by the way...there was another PANTHER siteing on Friday. Hope I have my camera when that fellow comes around!

STUDENT HIGHLIGHTS

2008-02-12T15:05:00.002-05:00

RECENT STUDENT ACCOMPLISHMENTS

CONGRATULATIONS TO :

MRS. HUNT

HOLED OUT 100 YD. SHOT IN SHORT GAME SCHOOL

Wow....I was there and saw this one....GREAT EXCITEMENT!

MRS. FERGUSON

CLOSEST TO THE PIN IN LADIES DAY

MRS. MILLINETTE

SCORE OF 45 AND 15 PUTTS IN LADIES DAY

MRS. WITTKOPF

SHOOTING 39 ON THE FRONT NINE AND 14 PUTTS

Mr. and Mrs. Brady...I'm mean Bradley

2008-02-03T20:25:00.000-05:00

Mardi Gras at Forest Glen

2008-02-03T20:15:00.000-05:00

Mr and Mrs. Ashcraft

Mr and Mrs. Cuthbert

Mr. and Mrs. Marino

After finishing a round of golf on Friday, I came across the following sites at the Pro Shop.

Great pictures and I'm sure a good time had by all.

This was the beginning of the golf cart parade I'm told.

Drew, Trey or Brody....

2008-01-31T17:45:00.000-05:00

What kind of birds are these??

Hey guys ....remember this past summer???

2008-01-31T17:33:00.000-05:00

My nephews...Patrick, Cameron, Brody, Trey and Drew.
Just wanted you guys to know how much I miss you and how much fun I had this past summer work with you all on your golf swings. I hope your keeping the practice going in between basketball and karate. Keep watching ....more birds to follow!!!

Mrs. Clark.....I think you made the green!

2008-01-31T17:31:00.000-05:00

DISCUSSING THE WINNING PUTT???

2008-01-31T17:15:00.001-05:00

Yes....there are more

2008-01-31T17:03:00.000-05:00

133 WOMEN RALLYING FOR THE CURE

2008-01-31T07:31:00.000-05:00

A very good time had by all....including Me!

2008-01-31T07:28:00.000-05:00

AND MORE...

2008-01-31T07:23:00.001-05:00

AND MORE FACES....

2008-01-31T07:19:00.001-05:00

FACES OF THE RALLY

2008-01-31T07:14:00.001-05:00

Rally for the Cure

2008-01-30T21:44:00.000-05:00

Rally for the Cure

Attached are some pictures from the tournament on Tues.

What a great day!

The tournament was well attended and well thought out.

My hats off to all those who worked SO HARD to put it all together.

Everyone should be very proud of the the turn out and the money raised for such a great cause!

EWGA of Columbus invades Naples!

2008-01-24T20:46:00.000-05:00

I enjoyed your visit Carol, Deb and Jeannie. I must say....you reminded me of how much I take for granted being here in the sunshine state! 18, 27, 27 and 36 holes of golf in 4 days...WOW! Glad I was able to accomdate you and THANKS for dinner and good company! I really have a greater appreciation of the Columbus Chapter of the EWGA since being down here. It was great having you here and I enjoyed seeing you all!

Karen, Enjoyed having you as my roomie for a few days as well. I enjoyed the "mother of the bride" shopping and having someone to watch the Green Bay game with!

Look forward to seeing everyone in the spring and am excited for the coming year with the EWGA chapter of Columbus!

SOME OF THE SCENERY ON THE COURSE

2008-01-17T21:24:00.001-05:00

These are actual pictures that I took from Forest Glen Golf Course...Hope you enjoy!

Happy New Year!

2008-01-17T21:15:00.000-05:00

I know it has been a while. I did not want to go so long between blogs..but I've been busy!!

Hope everyone is enjoying the new year. I spent New Years Eve and day at Disney World.

Had a great time, even when the temps. dropped to 30 degrees.

Visted Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Animal Kingdom and MGM. My favorite is and always has been Epoct.

Here's a picture from MGM....so not the drama!!

I know...not very flaturing....but just wanted to show my goofy side!

Merry Christmas.....(yes...I'm a bit late)

2007-12-29T17:30:00.000-05:00

Many of you have e-mailed and asked what I did for Christmas. I started the morning meeting the Wittkopfs and Ms. Zappala at one of only two golf courses that were open Christmas day. We had an 8am tee time.....I can't EVER remember playing golf on Christmas day. We had a BLAST!!! I holed one out from about 80 yards. Then Mr. Wittkopf chipped one in off the green; and then Mrs. Witkopf followed. This was all on different holes, but what fun it was to watch. We feel that Ms. Zappala may have felt a little pressure to perform....but she came close!!

I later had dinner at the Alleman's. It was great company and good food. Thanks to all for making my first Christmas without family....an enjoyable one!!!

Can you name this bird?

2007-12-19T08:17:00.000-05:00

I'm not sure what kind of bird this is, but if you know....email me at hilby3@aol.com!

The Snowman Game

2007-12-13T07:00:00.000-05:00

Tuesday was the Ladies Day Christmas Outing. The game was the Snowman game. It was a 2 BB format and if the score of the two balls equaled 8 you were allowed to deduct 1 stroke and make it 7. The ladies dressed in Christmas attire and enjoyed a luncheon after the round.

Here are some pictures from the event.

Above is Mrs. Crass and her decorative cart along with Drew.

Please don't send anymore presents...my tree is full!!

2007-12-11T21:55:00.000-05:00

Santa has arrived early for me! What a cool bike, I can't wait to ride it to the beach.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO EVERYONE!

GOLFING WITH TRICIA AND KAREN

2007-12-11T21:31:00.000-05:00

I spent the weekend playing some golf with Tricia Hammer and Karen Roggenkamp. Karen was able to escape the cold weather in Columbus and come down for a visit with Tricia. We had a round at Forest Glen on Sunday and then play Tricia's club on Monday. What a great course and in terrific shape. I enjoyed the time with both and appreciate the invite. Thanks Tricia for being such a wonderful hostess and for golf and lunch!

Here are some shots from the day on Monday.

P.S.....Karen, something to look back at on those cold winter days in Ohio!!

Us after lunch on the patio overlooking the golf course.

Tricia and Karen taking a break during the round.

Wow did you guys see how far that flew??

These girls know their golf and I always enjoy talking to them about it! They both have helped me to become a better teacher. Thanks for your honest conversations!

PICTURES FOR MY NEPHEWS

2007-12-11T20:53:00.000-05:00

Hi promised my nephew's back home I would try to get some pictures of the unique birds and other animals.

On the left is a picture of some type of bird. I would like to ask my nephew Drew (who has an interest in birds) if he can let me know just what kind of bird this is.

The other picture is of an alligator which is slowly creeping up to .....will I'll leave it up to your imaginations!

How to find out which eye is dominant and the plumb bobbing method of reading breaks

2007-12-07T23:09:00.000-05:00

Step One
Make a triangle with both of your hands by overlapping your thumbs and the top half of your fingers.
Step Two
Extend your arms toward your target.
Step Three
Look through the triangle at the target.
Step Four
Keep your hand-triangle small enough so that only one eye can look through it up close.
Step Five
Keep both eyes open.
Step Six
Move your hands back to your face, still looking at the target through your hands. Whichever eye your hands gravitate toward is your dominant eye.
Step Seven
Double check by holding the triangle at arms distance again and closing your non-dominant eye. The target should remain centered in the opening.

PLUMB BOBBING METHOD FOR PUTTING

What you are supposed to do is stand with your head and shoulders in line with the slope of the green, use your dominate eye, and do it the same way each time.

Stand behind your ball and the flag and line the bottom of the shaft up with the edge of the ball, and that should give you a reference of how much slope there is.

Putting Practice with a Purpose

2007-12-07T22:48:00.000-05:00

Here are some photo's from the last clinic. Everyone did really well!

Pictures of the Pro Shop

2007-12-02T11:13:00.000-05:00

On the top is Jon working on re-spiking a members shoes. You can also see the computers we work on for tee times and checking players in. We have a WELL stocked Pro shop and on the bottom you can see some of the merchandise.

On the left is two of our members, Mrs. Witkopf and Mrs. Murray.
I have really enjoyed meeting and working with all the members!

The Clear water at Naples

2007-12-02T11:10:00.000-05:00

If you look real close, you can see a small school of fish.

Me at the Beach!

2007-12-02T11:07:00.001-05:00

Gotcha!

This is one of the mermaids that washed up on the beach...Hair still looks nice!

Sunny and 80 today!

2007-12-02T10:56:00.000-05:00

Hi to all!

I'm going to post some pictures I took today on my day off.

The first are of some sand sculptures which were done on the beach at Naples.
Here on the top are two dolphins and below a unique looking frog.

This is what you call expressive art!!
And it was free...no admission charge to look at these pieces,
WOW...how lucky can you get...I mean me, for those of you up north, I hear it's cold and rainy.
But that's ok...The bucks are going to the BCS Championship!!!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2007-11-25T10:22:00.000-05:00

Hi to all and Happy Thanksgiving...Belated as it may be.
I had a couple of days off, Thanksgiving and Friday. Enjoyed the day with my cousin from Ohio and relaxed watching football.
I did not have the traditional Thanksgiving dinner...we grilled out steaks for our and enjoyed a nice veggie and salad. My place in Naples does not have cooking capability, so we went to Clearwater and stayed at my brothers house.
It was a great two days off topped off with a hair cut and pedicure!!
I'm getting my pictures together to post...so stay tune!
Still watching the college BCS standings....what a weekend of football!
Have a great week!
Kim

Nice win OSU!!!

2007-11-17T17:46:00.000-05:00

Yeah...The buckeyes did it!!
I had to work today in the pro shop, but had a chance to watch some of the game.
It was a good win.
It's hard to believe it's that cold up north.
Sunny and in the 70's here today.
The weather could not be better.
It's a little strange to see the Christmas lights going up as well.
Hope everyone up north is enjoying the win!
Blog at you soon!
Kim

Good Morning

2007-11-13T06:51:00.000-05:00

It's Tuesday and hope everyone is having a great week!
I'm just making sure I know how to add a picture to my blog.
This is another clinic photo from last week.
I'll have more ....stay tuned and you can blog back to me as well. Go ahead and try!
Enjoy the day!
Kim

THANKS VICKI

2007-11-12T21:46:00.000-05:00

I just wanted to send out a BIG Thank You to my Web master, Vicki.
It seems that I am thanking a lot of people for their patience with me.
This especially holds true to Vicki. Before I left for Florida she took time to show me how the other blog worked and what I needed to do. Needless to say....It did not sink in. I had a lot of trouble with that format and she has since directed differently. I feel pretty confident that I have the knowledge to keep this going.
So...Thanks Vicki and if any of you are looking for a GREAT, capiable person to do your web site...she is it!!
I look forward to blogging more frequently with updates and pictures, so stay tuned in!
Kim

Fine Tuning the Fundamentals

2007-11-12T17:46:00.000-05:00

I gave my first clinic on Wed. on the fundamentals. I really enjoy working with the membership at Forest Glen. That are all very enthused about golf and very eager to learn how to get better. The clinic went very well. My thanks to Jon for helping me out.

Jon is looking to enter the PGA program and is scheduled to take his PAT in December. He has a great personality and is going to be a great teacher.

The Team

2007-11-11T15:15:00.000-05:00

This is a photo of the Pro Shop Staff at Forest Glen - Drew, Me, Gary and Jon.

I am feeling right at home with every. I want to Thank Drew and Jon for the patience in teaching me the ropes. The membership as well as been very welcoming!

My day either starts at 6:30am and I work till 2:30pm, or 9- 5pm. The 9-5 shift is new to me. I've never had banker hours. I work in the Pro Shop assisting members with tee times, merchandise etc. I also do lessons during my shift and have scheduled some clinics.

This weekend, I'm at the LPGA Headquarters in Daytona Beach. It's a great facility!

Hope all are doing well up North and very sorry to see the Buckeyes lose yesterday!!! I knew Illinois would be tough.

Well...there is always next week.