Nobody is immune to pressure on the course. From tour pros playing at the highest level to recreational golfers out for a weekend bounce game with friends, it’s only normal to feel the knees shake now and then. What matters is how you cope with it. TaylorMade ambassador Nick Dougherty shares some simple techniques in the video and article below…
When it comes to dealing with nerves, the world’s best players are equipped with mental tools they can rely on. But that doesn’t mean they are infallible. Amateurs should take comfort in that and cut themselves some slack in the big moments.
In a career full of highlights, Nick led the 2007 US Open at Oakmont after day one and teed it up with a certain Tiger Woods for Saturday’s third round, so he knows a thing or two about pressure. By and large, he’s swapped his clubs for a microphone these days, but he tapped into his wealth of experience to help Golf Monthly reader Andy Edom. Here’s what you can learn.
Have a plan
First and foremost, it starts with a plan, says Dougherty. Whether it’s compiled with a coach or on your own, it’s an essential part of managing your game, expectations and your nerves. Spend a few minutes before a round checking the weather and thinking about your strategy.
“Having a plan on the course is so important,” Nick said. “For players like Andy who have a handicap around 18, you’re in that beautiful zone where some days can be game-changing but you always have the chance of having those shocking days as well.
“So I think it’s best to keep it nice and simple. Having a plan with your coach is always a good idea. Andy is a great example of this. Have a plan for how you’re going to improve your game, but when you go out on the course, go out to play well.”
Making a plan and sticking to it will help ease the pressure
(Image credit: Tom Miles)
Play to play great shots
Rounds are few and far between for Dougherty now, so the Englishman is well placed to help amateurs who can’t devote as much time to the game as they’d like. As well as sticking to a plan, he is a big advocate of “playing to…
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