COACHES PERCEPTIONS ON EFFECTIVE PRACTICE METHODS IN GOLF

Abstract

Many golfers ask: ?Why can?t I take my range game to the golf course?? The answer is simple. The practice methods employed by golfers may not be an effective method to retain and transfer golf skills. According to Hayman, Borkoles, Taylor, Hemmings, and Polman (2014) limited studies have indicated the correct developmental pathway and practice methods for amateur golf players to reach professional level. It is therefore crucial to investigate all aspects that might have an influence on the success of professional golf players. Research has indicated that expert performance is a result of years of practice and coaching, and not of talent alone (Ericsson, Prietula, & Cokely, 2007). The main objective of this study was to explore the perceptions of former and current Sunshine Tour players, members of the Professional Golfers? Association of South Africa (PGA of SA), PGA of SA coaches and/or golf administrators on effective practice methods. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 17 participants. This enabled the researchers to identify the most effective practice methods that may contribute to the effective transition from amateur to professional level. The results suggest that the current practice methods are not the most effective for reaching a professional level. Players need to interleave a number of different golf skills and techniques during practice sessions. The results also suggest that by incorporating spacing, variability and setting a challenge point for each activity, players may enhance their learning of specific golf skills. As a result, players will learn to transfer and adapt these skills successfully to any environment presented in a competition setting, such as a golf course. The results of this study can assist coaches in employing the correct practice methods, and consequently prepare golf players for professional level.