Category Archives: Training

Performance, Tournaments, Training

Travel Junior Golf Teams at Aussie Kids

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Step 7Golf lessons help children learn many important lessons that can benefit them throughout their lives. When they learn to play golf, children learn about courtesy, golf etiquette, and patience while they also are learning the rules and the game. Aussie Kids Golf Academy offers golf lessons, camps, after-school programs, and much more at our four locations throughout the Atlanta Metropolitan area. Our students range from ages three to 17 and are at all playing levels. As we move into 2020, we are excited about both the year ahead and the many programs and opportunities that we offer to kids. We continue to expand our programs to allow more children to explore their love of golf. We are very excited to announce our newest program offering for 2020, which is our Aussie Kids Travel Golf Team. If your kids make the team, they can enjoy the next level of golf as they continue to advance in their game.

What is the Aussie Kids Travel Golf Team?

travel golf teams atlanta aussie kidsThe Aussie Kids Travel Golf Team will be designed to provide the next level of training for junior golfers. The participants will enjoy an environment filled with fun, competition, knowledge, the application of knowledge, and accelerated growth in the game of golf. By competing on the Aussie Kids Travel Golf Team, junior golfers will receive all of the essential ingredients that young golfers need for continued success and development. The Aussie Kids Travel Golf Team will get to travel to tournaments throughout the area so that young golfers can continue to hone their skills through friendly competition.

Where will the Aussie Kids Travel Golf Team be based?

It is important to note that the Aussie Kids Travel Golf Team will be based out of our academy location in Buckhead. While this might be a somewhat lengthy drive for some of you, the drive will be worth it for your young golfers. We wanted to make you aware of this new program so that you can have the opportunity to take part in it if you would like. In the future, we also plan to establish a travel golf team for junior golfers from our Johns Creek academy. If your kids are interested in trying out for the Aussie Kids Travel Golf Team, the tryouts will be held at our Miami Circle Academy.

Benefits of participating in the Aussie Kids Travel Golf Team

Kids can derive multiple benefits from competing on the Aussie Kids Travel Golf Team. As members of the team, they can develop close relationships with other young golfers as they learn and grow together. Participating in the travel golf team can allow youth to benefit from advanced instruction and the camaraderie with their teammates. Participating in competitions throughout the area can also help junior golfers to develop a greater respect for other golfers and to show the type of respect and courtesy that is expected of golfers.
 

Other opportunities at Aussie Kids Golf Academy

If your children are not ready to participate in a travel golf team, Aussie Kids offers many other opportunities at our four locations. If you want golf lessons for your children, Aussie Kids is the best choice. We offer golf lessons for kids of all ages, ranging from three years old to 17. We also offer beginner, intermediate, and advanced programs to benefit junior golfers at all skill levels. Aussie Kids offers private and group golf lessons, golf camps during the winter and summer breaks, and after-school programs that can allow your children to learn the game of golf in a fun and enjoyable environment. When children learn to play golf, they can develop better interpersonal and social skills that can benefit them in school and throughout their lives.

Contact Aussie Kids today to learn more

To learn more about the programs that Aussie Kids offers, contact us at one of our four Atlanta-area locations. You can find more information about our Aussie Kids Travel Golf Team by contacting us today. If you would like to try out for the team, please email or call Elizabeth at elizabeth@aussiekids.com or 404.812.6808 today. When you choose Aussie Kids, you can train with true golf professionals here in Alpharetta or at our academies in Buckhead, John’s Creek, or Cross Creek.

Golf Lessons, Golf Tips, Training

How to Recognize Your Kid’s Golf Potential

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recognize talent in kids aussie kids golf atlantaWhile it’s easy to tell if a kid has the potential to be a pro in other sports, it’s harder for parents to recognize and foster golf talent in children. Learn the best ways to find out if your child has the potential to succeed and how to support your young golfer’s endeavors to the fullest.

Offer Encouragement

The first step to finding out whether your kid has golfing potential is providing encouragement. If you don’t encourage your child to go all-out in trying golf, you’ll never get the chances you need to observe your young golfer’s in-game potential. Plus, encouragement is the top motivator for kids; if you show your child that you’re there to support his or her golfing ambitions, your kid will view golfing more positively and truly get involved in the game.

Provide Access to Golfing Opportunities

If you don’t make it easy for your kid to golf, you’ll never be able to see your child’s hidden potential. Ensure that you provide your child with regular opportunities to visit local golf courses and driving ranges, and make sure to express that providing opportunities for golfing is important to you. Even better, give your child the chance to experience one-on-one golf coaching. In some cases, only a professional will be able to foster your child’s latent talent to the fullest.

Lay off the Pressure

Providing encouragement is great, but pressuring your child to succeed in golf will be counterproductive. Remember that golfing is your child’s choice, not yours. It won’t reflect poorly on you if your child doesn’t have any golfing talent, and it isn’t your accomplishment if your child succeeds. Once you remove your personal feelings from the equation, it’s much easier to treat your child fairly and help your kid’s golfing talent grow.

Remember That Golfers Grow at Different Rates

When kids are small, their size determines their golfing talent. A ten-year-old is almost guaranteed to be a better golfer than a five-year-old based on physical size alone. Remember that if your kid can’t hit the ball very far, physical size could have a lot to do with it. In many cases, it takes multiple years of observation to recognize golfing talent as your child grows. Be patient, and remember that every aspiring young golfer grows at different rates, and your child may be either ahead of or behind the pack.

Evaluate Interest

Remember that you can communicate with your young golfer to determine your kid’s interest in golf directly. You can observe your child to find the answers to the following questions, but it also doesn’t hurt to sit your kid down and have an honest discussion about golf:

Does your child ask to go to the course?
Does your child show an interest in golf clubs and how they work?
Does your child practice away from the course?
Does your child have a good attitude with coaches?
Does your child talk about golf off the course?

Offer the Option of Competing in Tournaments

You should never force your child to compete in a golf tournament. However, these regional youth tournaments can be great opportunities for children to realize their full golfing potential. Pitted against other kids their age, young golfers have to give their all to shine in the spotlight.

Success in regional tournaments is tantamount to proof that your kid has what it takes to achieve great things in the golfing world. Remember, however, to gauge the talent of the kids your child competed against to get an accurate read of your young golfer’s skills.

Provide Your Child with Aussie Kids Professional Coaching

It’s understandable if it’s hard to find the time you need to evaluate and foster your kid’s golf dreams to the fullest. It might make sense to provide your child with the gift of a golf camp or private lessons to allow professionals to encourage your child’s latent talent on the course.

Here at Aussie Kids, we offer a variety of summer camps and after-school packages that provide your child with the coaching he or she needs to attain long-term golfing success. Our high-end indoor facilities beat the Atlanta-area heat, and we also provide your child with opportunities to golf at some of Atlanta’s finest golf courses. To learn more, reach out to us at Aussie Kids today!

Benefits, Girls Golf, Golf Lessons, Golf Tips, Junior Golf, Training

Junior Golf Development Tips

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Golf is becoming an increasingly popular game for young people of all ages. However, there are some important safety and development tips to keep in mind when you’re dealing with a young child or adolescent. The material presented here will help you keep the game of golf fun and exciting for your child, while still providing them the opportunities and training needed to advance their golf skills.

junior-golf-development-tips

Understanding Proper Training for Children

 

Children have unique needs when it comes to proper training for golf. Since their bodies are still developing and changing on a continual basis, care must be taken to avoid injuries and discomfort.

 

While it’s true that children need to spend time on the course to learn the game, consider ways to maximize this time so that it means the most in terms of productivity. For example, take your child to the course during off-peak times. This will allow him to practice his skills without interrupting adult players. Additionally, keep in mind hunger, thirst, pain, fatigue, and other aspects of functioning may strongly impact your child’s ability to put forth the effort required to benefit from their training session. Try to work with the needs and personality requirements of your child.

 

In terms of the physical demands of training, always keep in mind your child’s strengths and limitations. You know your child better than anyone else. Ensure he has the proper equipment for his size, age, and strength capabilities. Work with him on advancing his skill levels while still attending to any physical demands he may have.

 

Golf practice should not be a physically painful or stressful experience for your child. If your child experiences physical complaints when he swings or performs other golf movements, he may be training too hard or using equipment that is not suited for his current size and strength. You may also want to limit the amount of time your child spends on each training session. Children will tire out before adults necessarily will, so pay close attention to your child’s cues that he has had enough training for the day. As he grows and matures, he will be able to handle longer training sessions.

 

How Training Needs Change as a Child Grows

 

As your child gets older, he will change in many ways. These can include both physical and emotional changes. Older children will generally exhibit more patience, understanding, and consideration for others. As he changes in physical ways, your child will also require different equipment that is suited to his current height and strength capabilities. As he gains balance and increased upper body strength, your child will be able to swing harder and with greater accuracy. It may be normal for your child to overdo it at this stage since he feels a greater degree of power and force behind each swing. It’s important to ensure he still carries out each swing with proper safety and protocol in mind to protect his developing body.

 

Boosting Your Child’s Confidence and Self-Esteem

 

Some children struggle with their confidence level as they begin to advance in their golf skills. This may come from watching others who they feel are more adept at the game than they are. Children may also want to push ahead faster than their current strength or skill level allows them to do. If they are unable to achieve the level of success that they’d like as fast as they would like, they may begin to feel frustrated or defeated. It’s important to continue to encourage your child from a mental, emotional, and physical aspect. Let him know that he doesn’t need to compare himself and his skills to other players. Boost his confidence with continual praise and constant support both on and off the course.

 

Maintaining Proper Focus During the Game

 

Depending on the age of your child, you may find that he struggles to maintain focus during the game. This can be remedied in a few different ways. For starters, be sure to work around issues such as tiredness, hunger, or academic stress. Let your child’s practice sessions be scheduled for times when he won’t be distracted by physical discomforts, other players, or stress at home. Taking brief breaks or keeping practice sessions a bit shorter can also help your child’s focus remain sharp.

 

Keeping the Fun Alive

 

Most importantly, the game of golf should be fun for your child. Without the element of fun and joy, what is the point of playing? By providing your child with the proper equipment, allowing him to take breaks if he experiences fatigue, and rewarding each success along the way, he will likely experience all the joy that golf has to offer. Some families even make a special routine out of practice sessions or games. Perhaps you make it a tradition to head out for ice cream after each game and talk about the experiences you had on the course. Making the game special in your own unique way can add to the appeal and draw you closer as a family.

 

Golf is an exciting game that children of all ages can enjoy. If you listen to the needs of your child and offer him the support he requires, he will gain many skills from learning the game of golf. Many professional academies also exist that can help provide the direction and support that can benefit your child the most as he develops a lifelong passion for golf.

Benefits, Girls Golf, Golf Lessons, Golf Tips, Junior Golf, Training

Best Forms of Golf Training for Kids

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Golf can be an exciting sport for children to get involved with. In addition to developing many physical and emotional skills on the course, your child will have an opportunity to develop strong friendships that will last for years to come. However, any sport requires a great deal of dedication and practice in order for your child to reach his full potential. The following information will provide important tips regarding the best ways to get optimal golf training for your child.

 

golf-training-for-kids

 

How Many Hours Should Children Practice?

 

Children typically have short attention spans. In addition to this factor, their mood can be influenced by many outside forces. These factors can include such things as the temperature, hunger, thirst, physical pain, fatigue, or emotional stress. Therefore, the hours and time-frame that your child should spend practicing on a weekly basis may depend a great deal on his age and maturity level. For a younger child, it may be wise to begin with an hour or two once each week. As your child matures and gets accustomed to the game, you can increase the number of hours spent playing golf each week.

 

What Kinds of Training Exercises are Best for Children?

 

Golf is an interesting sport that requires various types of shots with different types of clubs. The following categories of training exercises will allow your child to develop well-rounded golf skills that cover all areas.

 

* Golf Chipping

 

In the sport of golf, chips are very short shots that are played around the greens with a variety of specific golf clubs. By having a specific point of reference in mind, your child can be allowed to practice his skill at chipping the ball. Since visualizing how the shot will turn out is an important part of successful chipping, your child may need a lot of practice sessions to hone this skill.

 

* Golf Putting

 

In the sport of golf, putting shots are shorter and slower shots aimed at getting the ball rolling in the direction of the hole from a short distance away. Being an accurate judge of distance is important in accurate putting, but other factors come into play that requires a great deal of practice. These additional factors can include the slope, wind factors, and other environmental aspects of the course.

 

* Golf Swings

 

The driving range is a great way for your child to practice a full golf swing before taking to the course to play an official game. Using the driving range for this purpose has the added benefit of not disrupting the games of other players on the course while your child is still in the learning phase of developing this vital skill.

 

* Golf Etiquette

 

Of course, no lesson on the sport of golf would be complete without a section on proper golf etiquette. Learning proper etiquette can involve everything from showing respect for other players to taking good care of the golf course. Even wearing the proper golf attire and paying careful attention to safety habits can fit into this important category.

 

How Often Should Children Practice with Different Clubs?

 

In order for your child to become successful at the game of golf, he needs to be playing with the right equipment. The main thing to remember when it comes to children and golf clubs is the child’s smaller stature. Of course, learning to use all types of golf clubs properly is an important aspect of the game. However, it’s imperative that your child doesn’t get unduly frustrated because he’s playing with clubs that are ill-suited for his stature.

 

Focus on finding golf clubs that suit your child’s height and size properly. Attempting to use a golf club that is too stiff or too long can cause your child’s skill to suffer and his frustration to build. It may also be wise to let him get the hang of one type of golf club before moving on to others.

 

What Time of Day Should Children Practice on the Course?

 

Children who are still learning the sport of golf will obviously be playing at a very different level than adults, even if those adults are also beginners. However, it’s important for children to spend time on a proper golf course in order to learn the game efficiently.

 

It’s in your child’s best interest to take him to the golf course during times when it’s naturally less busy. For most golf courses, this will be times during the late evening. It may be wise to ask your local golf course what their least busy times are to give you a better indication of ideal days and times for your child to play. Taking your child to play golf during quieter times will be less frustrating for both him and the other players on the course.

 

Important Safety Precautions for Children

 

Golf is likely one of the safest sports that children can get involved in. However, that doesn’t mean it isn’t accompanied by a few risks that need to be carefully addressed with your child. Many injuries that occur on a golf course involve being inadvertently hit by a golf ball. It’s vital that your child learns to keep an eye out for other players and to take responsibility for his own safety on the course. Additionally, following proper guidelines while using golf carts is important, as is knowing what to do during dangerous weather situations.

 

Golf is a fun, exciting, and safe sport that can be enjoyed by the entire family. Golf can allow your children to develop incredible physical skills, manage their emotions and expectations successfully, and forge lasting bonds with other players. By following the training advice outlined here, your child can gain mastery over this sport while enjoying the time he spends on the golf course to the max.

Benefits, Girls Golf, Golf Scholarships, Golf Tips, Performance, Training

What College Golf Coaches Look For in Prospects

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Many junior golfers dream of playing golf in college. For most junior golfers, deciding where he or she wants to attend college to play golf is the first hurdle. Once several programs have been identified, you will next need to determine how to get the coaches’ attention. It is important for you to write a strong golf resume so that the coach will have good information about both your game and your academic record. In addition to your resume, it is also important that you understand what scouts look for and how you might be able to make a good impression when you meet a college coach in person. When you approach these steps in the right way, you may improve your chances of getting into a great golf program at a school that you love. college-golf-coaches

How to write a golf resume for college coaches

When you write your resume, you should start with your basic data. This information should include the following:

  • Your name, address and phone number
  • Your date of birth
  • Your height and weight
  • The name of your high school
  • The month and year that you will graduate
  • Your class rank, GPA and SAT or ACT scores
  • Your state or USGA handicap index
  • Your high school stroke average
  • A list of your other extracurricular activities and sports

Following your basic information, you will next need to list your highlights and your tournament results. You should list the name of each event and its location along with the number of players. You will want to list what your finish was, the yardage that you played, the course’s rating and distance and any weather that might have occurred during the event.

This section is important because it allows you to demonstrate to college coaches your abilities when playing tournament golf. If you have played in tournaments for several years, arrange them chronologically so that college coaches can easily see the improvements that you have made as time has passed.

What are the top skills college coaches look for in golfers?

College coaches look for much more than your performance at high school golf events unless you played in the state’s championship. Coaches pay attention to the scoring average that you have in other tournaments that are more competitive such as junior golf events. Your grades are highly important. If you do not have grades that are good enough for what the school is searching for, college coaches are likely to move on. Finally, coaches like to see that golfers have played in other sports so that they know that they have strong athletic abilities.

How to get noticed via scouting videos and letters

Most junior golfers submit videos and letters along with their resumes. It is important for you to help yourself to get noticed when you submit these. There is a limited chance that you will get noticed by a college golf coach at a combine. Instead, you have the responsibility of reaching out to them and of making a lasting impression. If you are taped at a golf tournament, get a copy and submit it. You can also have a digital video taken of you that highlights your abilities. Frame shots to include you as well as the flag so that the coaches can see the trajectory of the ball. Frame yourself in the center of the picture from the side, and take shots from the back end so that the coaches can see the ball’s flight. Include around 10 repetitions of your drive from the tee. You will also want to include drives at various distances. Film yourself driving from the fairway around 10 times in different situations. You will also want to film about 10 repetitions of you putting on the green. Make certain to film yourself using a variety of different clubs.

In addition to your video and your resume, you will also need to send a cover letter. In your letter, briefly summarize your accomplishments and explain why you are interested in the school’s program. Your letter should be written in such a way that it makes the golf coaches want to take a closer look at your resume and your video. Some junior golfers also create online portfolios and include links in their resumes to their profiles so that college golf coaches can take a closer look.

What college scouts look for in the golf scores of both boys and girls

The scoring averages that college scouts look for differ depending on the school’s division as well as your gender. If you are a boy wanting to attend a Division I school, you will need to have a scoring average that is 75 or better. For schools in the Top 20, you will need to have a scoring average of about 72. Division II schools look for scoring averages that range from 75 to 80. Finally, Division III schools look for scoring averages ranging up to 85. If you are a girl who has a scoring average that ranges from 85 to 90, most Division I golf programs will be interested in you.

What the college recruiting process is like

The college golf recruiting process differs from the process for other sports. College golf programs normally do not have large enough budgets to allow the coaches to go on the road in search of players. It is up to you to send in your highlights, resumes and videos. You will need to start by figuring out which college’s golf program appeals to you the most. You should also pay attention to the school itself and make certain it is somewhere that you would like to go. Plan to send your information to up to 10 programs. Some junior golfers also get help from college recruiting services that send their information to schools on their behalf.

How to make a good in-person impression with a college coach

When a college golf coach expresses interest in you, the coach may invite you for an in-person meeting. In order to make a good impression, you should practice in advance. Make certain that you are assertive in your answers because it shows self-confidence. Don’t be afraid to express a little emotion to convey your excitement about the program. Practice answering open-ended questions, and be prepared to show the coach what you will be able to offer to him or her.

How to submit personal highlights

Because college golf coaches are busy, mail sometimes piles up. It is a good idea to submit your materials as attachments to an email in addition to mailing them. College golf coaches may be likelier to open their emails and see your material. Make certain that your personal highlights stand out by using bold fonts.

It can be very exciting to be recruited to play college golf. If you are careful in how you approach all of these things, you might soon be on your way to a great program at the school of your choice.

After School Sports, Benefits, Golf Tips, Junior Golf, Performance, Training

Kids Golf Equipment

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kids-golf-equipmentAs any golfer knows, choosing the right clubs makes a big difference when it comes time to play. This is especially true for kids. Young players need clubs of the right size and weight for their needs. Equipment that is ill-fitted can create bad habits and swing problems that can be difficult to unlearn later. Children may also get frustrated with the difficulty of the game or their results and not want to keep playing due to ill-fitted equipment.

Why Kid-Specific Clubs Are a Good Idea

 
Before golfing equipment for children became widely available, it was common for parents to modify adult clubs for their kids. However, simply cutting down the shaft isn’t enough. Adult clubs have heavier heads and stronger lofts, which can make it difficult for kids to achieve a good swing and get the ball airborne. Clubs made for kids are more lightweight, flexible and lofted.

 

What to Look for in Children’s Golf Clubs

 
Height and weight can vary significantly between children of the same age group, which is why clubs should be purchased based on your child’s individual size rather than age. Athleticism, height and weight should all be taken into account when choosing clubs.

 
Length is the most important factor when it comes to choosing golf clubs.

 
Typically, golf clubs are sold with recommended height ranges. You should aim for your child to be within the middle of the range. If your child is barely within the height recommendations for the club you’re looking at, you may want to consider a different club that provides some room to grow without being much too large.

 
Because golf clubs can be expensive, you may wish to buy a set of clubs your child can “grow into” over time, saving you from needing to buy new clubs with every growth spurt. You can usually get by with a club that’s approximately 1.5 inches longer than necessary; this provides some room for adjustments for hand positioning on the grip as the child grows without affecting the swing technique too much.

 
When buying clubs, it might be a good idea to buy them in-person rather than order them online. Bring your child to the store to try out various clubs and see how they feel. This will give you the best idea of how the club will fit and whether the swing will be comfortable.

 

Other Considerations When Buying Golf Equipment for Kids

 
Younger golfers do not need a full set of clubs. When they’re just beginning to learn the game, three clubs should suffice: a putter, a wood and a 5-7 iron. Additional clubs can be added as the child gains proficiency with the game, but avoid any of the lower lofted clubs as a child may struggle to get the ball air-lofted. Your goal in teaching a child should be to ensure success and minimize frustrations that might discourage the child from continuing to practice and play.

 
Although clubs are important, ball selection will also help to set your child up for success. For the best results, you’ll want to buy a ball with low compression. The compression rating you choose should be based on your child’s average swing speed, which can be measured at the course. Low-compression balls are more likely to be hit straight at low speeds, which makes them ideal for kids.

 
You can buy golf balls made with children in mind from most manufacturers. When choosing a ball, you may want to pick one with high visibility to make it easier and more fun for your child to keep track of his or her ball on the course.

After School Sports, Benefits, Golf Lessons, Golf Tips, Junior Golf, Performance, Training

Tips On Teaching Kids Proper Golf Etiquette

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teach-kids-proper-golf-etiquetteGolfing can be a great family pastime and wonderful sport for kids, but you’ll need to be sure that your children understand more than just the rules of the game. Etiquette is very important at the course, and you’ll want to take the time to ensure that your children are well-behaved before you start teaching the secrets of a good swing.

 

One of the best ways to teach golfing etiquette to your kids is to bring them along as spectators the next time you go golfing. You’ll want to be sure that the course allows this, of course; you may need to do a bit of research to find a family-friendly golf course in your area.

 
Once you’ve settled on a location, allow yourself plenty of time to get through the game and teach your eager spectators about the rules as they come up. Showing them simple etiquette lessons throughout the course of a regular game will be much more effective and less overwhelming than trying to tell them everything at once.
Here are some fundamentals you’ll want to be sure your kids understand before they pick up a club for the first time:

 

No Yelling

 
Golf is a quiet sport and one that requires immense concentration. Making a lot of noise is sure to earn some unfriendly looks from your fellow golfers. Teach your kids the appropriate time to cheer and when to yell “fore!” to warn others of errant shots, but otherwise impress upon them the importance of lowering their voices and not being tempted to yell across the fairway.

 

No Running

 
Running can raise the risk of accidents and damage the turf. It’s also a distraction for other players. Be sure that your kids understand that golf is played at a more leisurely pace than some of the sports they might be familiar with, and discourage them from running across the green.

 

Remember the Dress Code

 
Every course has its own specific rules regarding how players should be dressed, but the basics are the same from one location to another. Men should wear dress slacks or shorts and a collared shirt. Women should wear slacks or a skirt and a collared shirt. You can help your child get involved with the game by buying a collared golf shirt and nice slacks to wear on this special occasion.

 

Don’t Disrupt the Pace of Other Players

 
It’s okay to take your time on the course, but holding up the game for other players is rude. It’s recommended that you let faster players play through ahead of you, especially while you’re learning and may be slow. Try to avoid socializing when it’s your turn to swing; wait until no one is waiting on you.

 

Respect the Course

 
There are certain things that every player is expected to do to ensure the health of the course. These include filling in or replacing divots on the green, fairway and tee boxes as well as taking sand in bunkers after you’ve passed through them. Show your kids how to use a divot tool, and let them practice during your game so they get used to this responsibility.

 

Observe the Right Order of Play

 
Although some concessions can be made for special circumstances, like letting a group move ahead of you when you know that you’ll be slow, play generally follows a specific order. The player farthest away from the pin hits first on each shot, and the winner of the previous hole is the first to tee off at the next. Point these out to your children as you go so that they can get into the rhythm of the game.

 

Don’t Mess Up Shots for Others

 
Unexpected things can damage a player’s concentration. Your child might not realize the importance of staying quiet while someone else is taking a shot. Be sure they know not to walk across the line of someone else’s putt on the green or crowd too close to anyone preparing to swing. If your kids are starting to get restless or have a hard time staying still during another player’s turn, it might be time to take a break for a while.

 

Stay Safe

 
Many etiquette rules are also safety guidelines. You don’t want to do anything that might put you or someone else in danger of being hit by a stray ball. Be sure your kids know to wait until the group in front of you is out of range before you take a shot. Also let them know not to linger in places that they shouldn’t be or that would put them in range of someone’s shot. Finally, be sure they understand that golf should never be played when there’s a risk of lightning strike; be ready to pack it up if the weather turns foul.

 

Follow the Rules of the Game

 
Even if you’re playing for fun, it’s important to follow the rules laid out by the R&A and USGA. Don’t be tempted to let your kids cheat; if they’re not mature enough to play by the rules, they may not be ready to start playing yet. Even if you’re playing a different sort of game or golf challenge that does not follow the official rules, be sure that everyone knows and agrees to the rules before you start. Teach kids how to handle disagreements respectfully.

 
When you’re first teaching your kids to golf, you should bear in mind that a full game may last too long to hold their attention. Bored kids are prone to acting up, which will cause problems for everyone. Keeping that in mind, set your kids up for success by playing shorter rounds at first or playing other games on the course that can help to keep them entertained. Think up some “mini-games” or challenges that can give your new players an immediate goal to focus on, and you’ll be set for success.

After School Sports, Benefits, Golf Lessons, Golf Tips, Junior Golf, Training

Tips To Improve Your Child’s Swing Accuracy

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The swing is a fundamental part of any golfer’s game, regardless of skill level. After all, if you can’t swing a club properly, how can you make it through a round of golf? That’s why perfecting your swing and consistently working on swing accuracy is something that you never stop doing.improve-childs-swing-accuracy

 

At Aussie Kids Golf Academy, we think kids should have the opportunity to improve their swing accuracy in a fun, safe and positive learning environment. We encourage kids to not only be great learners but great teachers as well. By fostering their love of the game and their naturally inquisitive natures, we help them develop an intuitive feel for how their swing technique can be improved.

 

In addition to our lessons, we think it’s great for kids to keep practicing at home. Even if you don’t have a golf course in your backyard, your child can still use the tips below to improve his or her swing anytime.

1. Find Your Ideal Grip

 

There is no single “correct” way for every golfer to grip a club. Various types of grips fall in and out of style, but it’s more a matter of where your child’s grip naturally falls. Not only will a particular grip feel more comfortable, but it will allow your child to get the club in his or her fingers, which is ideal for achieving maximum grip mobility.

 

Have your child experiment with grips like the baseball, Vardon and interlocking to see which feels best. Finding the right grip is the first step towards improving swing accuracy.

 

2. Ball Position Matters

 

Nothing is more frustrating than when your ball goes in a completely different direction than you expected it to go. Often, this is because the ball position isn’t set up correctly. Learning to position the ball correctly will drastically improve swing accuracy.

 

When the ball is too far back, the swing will end up too far on the inside, which almost always leads to a hook. If the ball is too far forward, the swing won’t connect squarely, and your child will usually pull the shot. Both of these incorrect positions can also lead to your child developing poor posture or compensation habits, which can further impact accuracy.

 

3. Pay Attention to Distance

 

Your child’s distance from the ball is just as important as the position of the ball itself. Standing too close will result in his or her posture being too straight and stiff, and standing too far away leads to his or her posture being too slumped over. It’s more common to stand too far away, which leads to poor body rotation and too much weight in the arms.

 

Have your child work on posture and distance to create a more consistent, powerful swing.

 

4. Swing With All You’ve Got

 

A lot of instructors will teach kids to slow their swing because they falsely believe this improves accuracy. Typically, when kids first start out, they have a tendency to swing hard and miss the ball. When the instructor tells them to slow down, they notice more accuracy. However, slowing down a poorly formed swing doesn’t help your child at all.

 

Instead of teaching kids to swing more slowly, help them work on swinging powerfully and accurately. Making up games and fun drills that teach accuracy while allowing them to swing powerfully will help them develop into better players in the long run. Kids are naturally inquisitive and excellent at intuitively grasping concepts, so the more they focus on accuracy, the better they will be able to develop a natural feel for the proper form.

 

Let Aussie Kids Golf Academy Improve Your Child’s Swing Accuracy

 

Aussie Kids Golf Academy is dedicated to developing junior golfers who are confident in themselves and their skills. Our group lessons, private instructions and summer camps are all centered around fostering a love for the game and giving kids the ability to succeed in life and on the golf course.

After School Sports, Benefits, Golf Lessons, Golf Tips, Performance, Training

5 Tips to Improve Your Child’s Putting

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Chipping and putting are two of the most fundamental parts of mastering your golf game. Despite this, many adults tend to spend a lot more time on the practice range than they do the practice green. This is why we think that it’s so important to start your kids off right when it comes to learning improve-childs-puttingto putt. By starting good habits at a young age, it will become ingrained in them as adults, and they will be able to drastically improve their game.

 

At Aussie Kids Golf Academy, we design every aspect of our training so that it emphasizes the fun and excitement that comes along with the game. Because we want our kids to love golf and be excited by it, we employ teaching styles and techniques that foster a fun, positive learning environment. Putting is a concept that takes a lot of practice and focus to truly master, so we have compiled a few of our favorite tips below that will help your child build confidence in his or her putting skills.

1. Play More and Teach Less

 

Children have notoriously short attention spans, and that’s okay. When you’re young, you want to explore and experience things instead of being told to pay attention to someone lecturing you.

 

Keep your lessons short and simple. Use words they will understand. Get down on their level when you speak to them. Above all else, let them play. Show them that every aspect of golf is fun, and they will gravitate towards becoming more focused and interested in the nuances of the game on their own.

 

2. Lend a Helping Hand

 

You should absolutely let your child try and fail when it comes to learning a new concept. Nobody ever learns the right way until they’ve made a few mistakes. However, you should also remember that some of the things we take for granted as adults are major obstacles to a young child.

 

Don’t let your child get so frustrated with the small things that they lose interest in the game itself. Watch for signs of frustration, and be willing to help at all times.

3. Show, Don’t Tell

 

There’s a reason that children’s books are always filled with bright, interesting pictures. Kids are great visual and tactile learners, so your lessons should reflect that.

 

Rather than using proper terminology and long explanations, show your child the correct way to grip or exactly how your feet should look during a putt. You can point out the explanations as you go along, but it’s more important to give your child a visual to follow.

 

Games are a great way to do this too. Turning practice drills into games can change something tedious, like learning to control your putt, into something exciting.

 

One particular game called “two putt” is a simple way to make the lesson of control more fun. You simply need one golf ball and a putter for each of you. Drop your balls on the green, and choose a hole to putt towards. If you get the ball in one putt, that’s one point. A two-putt is zero points, and three putts costs you a point. By only rewarding the one putt, it forces the child to focus on controlling the speed of the initial putt.

4. Make Etiquette a Priority

 

Your child is never too young to learn proper putting etiquette. Not only will this instill good manners and respect for other golfers, but it will make sure everyone stays safe.

 

In spite of their excitement, kids should learn quickly that it’s never okay to run or yell on a golf course. Don’t nag or scold; simply give them gentle reminders about how the game must be played. This goes for rules of safety and courtesy as well. Children should learn early on to never step into a putter’s line, and they should understand what it means to tend the flag for fellow golfers.

 

Another important rule is dress code. Unlike many other sports, golf requires a more polished appearance. Help your child follow the dress code by getting a special outfit or two that can only be worn while golfing.

 

Finally, teach your child to take care of the golf course. Show your child how to use the divot tool, the correct way to rake sand in bunkers and how to repair divots made in the ground.

 

5. Give Praise Freely

 

For young children, it’s more important to reinforce positive feelings than give correction. Kids tend to think of things as either “fun” or “not fun,” and receiving constant critiques will make the game seem “not fun” because the child may feel like he or she is “doing it wrong.”

 

Rather than pointing out when your child makes a mistake, find something positive to say. For example, even if the putt was too forceful, you can praise your child’s form or swing. If your child’s grip was off, compliment the control of the putt instead.

 

There will always be time to correct mistakes later on. In the early stages, it’s much more important to foster enjoyment and interest.

 

Let Aussie Kids Golf Academy Improve Your Child’s Game

 

Our training programs are designed to help children as young as three develop a love for golf. We hold group lessons, private lessons and summer camps all focused on creating good golfing habits, building confidence and instilling the skills needed to perform with pride and success.

After School Sports, Benefits, Girls Golf, Golf Lessons, Junior Golf, Training

Junior Golf Tournaments in Atlanta

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Aussie Kids Golfing Academy-Junior Golf Tournaments in Atlanta

Preparing for Georgia Junior Golf Tournaments

Besides the lifelong friendships that your child will likely develop with peers, parents, and instructors during their golf training sessions, they are also preparing themselves to compete for golf scholarships. If they are interested when the time comes to head off to college, your child could qualify for athletic scholarships that are based on their performance in junior golf tournaments. If you`re a resident of the greater Atlanta metropolitan area, you can enroll your child as a member in Georgia Junior Golf where they can compete in golf tournaments as early as seven years old.
 
If you would like for your child to learn a fun sport as well as the foundations of sportsmanship, then Aussie Kids’ golf training programs are to be seriously considered. Young children who participate in our programs go to junior golf tournaments prepared to compete against and make friends with some of the state’s best future golfers.
 

Benefits of Early Golf Training for Children

The golf course has been and remains the primary place where deals are done in Western society. In fact, many details of mergers, acquisitions, and new partnerships are crafted on the greens long before formal boardroom meetings take place. One way to set your child up for success in the business world and in life is to get them interested in the game of golf early.
 
Golf training with a professional firm like Aussie Kids can start as early as three years old. While you may think that the age of three is a bit early to start grooming the next Fred Couples or Kathy Whitworth, there are many good reasons why your child should start developing his or her swing as early as possible.
 
For starters, golf training helps them to develop mentally as well as physical coordination. Since height and build have little to do with a golfer’s success, your child has the same opportunities to succeed at the sport as any other child who puts forth the effort to train. Just like any other sport, learning to golf builds confidence, and golf is a much safer activity than other sports such as football, soccer, and basketball.
 
Many successful people from all walks of life have been avid golfers. Heavyweight boxing champion Joe Louis, statesman Winston Churchill, actress Katharine Hepburn and even Kentucky Fried Chicken founder Colonel Sanders were all passionate golfers. Subsequently, the golf course has been known throughout recent history as the place where successful people hang out. It definitely offers excellent networking opportunities for skilled players who exercise the right course etiquette. Aussie Kids can get your child on his or her way to developing the skills and positive attitude that they need to win on the golf course and in life.

<Click here for more information on why you should get your kids into golf today!