A Guide to Becoming a Better Golfer (Ages 5–17)

Junior golfers have a unique opportunity to develop their skills at a young age. Consistent practice, the right approach, and setting realistic goals are key to long-term improvement. This guide helps juniors (and their parents) understand how to practice, how often to play, and what to aim for as they grow in the game.

1. How to Practice Between Lessons

A. Focus on Fundamentals

• Grip, Stance, and Posture: Build a strong foundation early

• Drill: Practice in front of a mirror to develop consistency

B. Work on the Short Game (Putting, Chipping, Pitching)

• Putting: Focus on both lag putting and short putts within 5 feet

  • Drill: Use tape or markers for target zones

• Chipping: Use various clubs for different lies and distances

  • Drill: Create targets with cones to make it fun and competitive

C. Full Swing Practice (Irons and Driver)

• Practice with a variety of clubs to build consistency

• Drill: Target distance control with a 7-iron, then progress to longer clubs

D. Mental Practice and Visualization

• Spend a few minutes visualizing perfect shots before each session

• Builds confidence and mental discipline early on

E. Tracking Progress

• Record practice sessions and key metrics:

  • Number of putts made, fairways hit, and drills completed

2. How Often Should Juniors Play and Practice?

A. Play Regularly (1–2 Times per Week)

• Why it matters: Develops course awareness, builds confidence under pressure

• Recommended format: 9-hole rounds are great for skill-building without fatigue

B. Practice Between Rounds (2–3 Times per Week)

• Short but focused practice sessions (30–60 minutes)

• Balance time between short game, full swing, and mental reps

3. Junior Golf Statistics: Breaking Score Milestones

A. Breaking 100

• Percent of Juniors: 50–60%

• Focus Areas: Short game, reducing penalty strokes, course awareness

B. Breaking 90

• Percent of Juniors: 15–25%

• Focus Areas: Swing accuracy, shot strategy, and short game

C. Breaking 80

• Percent of Juniors: 5–10%

• Focus Areas: Shot-making, course management, mental game

D. Breaking 70

• Percent of Juniors: Less than 1%

• Focus Areas: Tournament play, elite mindset, consistency, and physical fitness

4. Resources for Junior Golfers

A. Apps for Tracking Progress

• SwingU: GPS, score tracking, swing analysis

• Decade: Course strategy, data-driven decision-making

• Operation 36: Skill-based structure with drills, challenges, and progress tracking

B. Books for Junior Golfers

• Golf is Not a Game of Perfect – Dr. Bob Rotella

• Chop Wood, Carry Water – Joshua Medcalf

• Fearless Golf – Dr. Gio Valiante

5. Tips for Parents Supporting Junior Golfers

• Be Supportive: Encourage without applying pressure

• Keep It Fun: Use challenges, games, and variety in practice

• Create a Balanced Schedule: Include lessons, practice, rest, and fun

• Focus on Fundamentals: Reinforce grip, stance, posture, and technique

Final Note

By following this guide, junior golfers can improve their practice habits, understand their progress, and build the confidence needed to succeed. With the right balance of patience, consistency, and support, they’ll develop a love for the game and a solid foundation for long-term growth.