In 2011, I considered the game of golf to be a legitimate threat to my sanity (see – https://www.huntfishgolfwork.com/?p=411). Lessons, equipment changes and countless practice sessions did not provide relief. My competitive intensity slowly diminished to the point where I actually questioned why I was even entering in club events. On course turrets-like episodes became a regular occurrence. I attempted to turn frustration into motivation, but the brain could not trick the body into execution.
Unfortunately, 2012 started where 2011 left off. Many moving body parts, poor posture, utter confusion and a bad attitude lead to a new search for help. To my great fortune, The Club at Pradera hired Matt Marino to be the assistant golf professional. Matt is an energetic, engaging, positive individual whose personality is infectious. His teaching methodology is simplistic by design, yet conveys the appropriate information that allows his student to be effective. Matt is not assumptive; he asked questions about my game, watched me swing, then challenged me to do what it would take to turn everything around. Our first lesson ended with two drills that I would employ during every subsequent practice session (basement, bedroom and range). Additional sessions reinforced critical fundamentals which allowed me to build on his prior teachings. Our objectives were clear;
1. Install the correct set up, ball position and swing plane.
2. Maintain internal tranquility that will allow me to institute a functioning tempo.
3. Build back the confidence that I would need to once again have fun playing the sport.
It has not been easy, but we have managed to lower my handicap to a 6.3 index. Matt and I will continue to work together in order to refine my ever evolving mechanics. Perhaps radical changes can be made that will allow me to exceed my potential? Either way, Matt Marino’s teachings have allowed me to once again smile on the golf course. Matt is a special person, instructor and friend.
Matt Marino No Reference Drill
