Create Clarity to Shoot Lower Golf scores...
/Creating Clarity to Shoot Lower Golf Scores
Over the years of coaching elite players, I've learned that success in golf isn't about creating the perfect-looking swing—it’s about effectively controlling the golf ball and the mind to achieve the lowest possible score. While having sound technique is important, there are consistent traits among elite players, visible through GEARS data, that set them apart from mid to high handicap golfers. Understanding and measuring these essential body alignments can ensure players fall within acceptable performance ranges.
One common misconception is that a high score stems from poor swing mechanics alone. This belief leads golfers to seek out new instructors and embark on swing changes, hoping for a "magic fix." But is the issue really the swing? Or could it be something else? Answering that question effectively can shift a golfer’s approach and produce better on-course results while maintaining focus on targeted improvements.
Take, for example, a 15-handicapper struggling to break into the 80s. These players often chase technical adjustments, but knowing which changes are truly needed is crucial. That’s why at Dennis Sales Golf Academy, we prioritize assessment and data-driven decision-making to identify the most effective areas for improvement.
Rather than focusing solely on technical adjustments, golfers should identify the skills they lack compared to lower-handicap players. Performance statistics can pinpoint these gaps and help prioritize improvement areas. Here are some essential questions to consider:
What is your average number of Greens in Regulation (GIR)? What’s your proximity to the hole?
How many fairways do you hit, and where do you tend to miss?
How often do you successfully get up and down?
How many putts do you take per round, and how strong is your putting performance?
Statistics play a crucial role in tracking performance and measuring improvement. They guide both players and coaches in understanding where strokes are lost and highlight progress in specific skill areas. Vast majority of our players use Arccos golf to track their stats.
To improve, golfers need to accurately prioritize their current skills and create a systematic plan to address the areas that cost the most strokes. This approach is far more effective than comparing one’s swing to that of a professional or a coach's favorite player during a lesson.
Acrros Golf
Three Essential Skills for Lower Scores
Ball Control: The ability to strike the ball solidly, control its curve, and manage distance is foundational. Golfers must consistently move the ball from point A to point B.
Decision-Making: Selecting the right club and factoring in variables are key components of smart play.
Self-Management: Managing mindset, emotions, and focus are critical to maintaining consistency.
The Truth About Ball Control
Great ball control doesn’t require a perfect-looking swing. On any professional tour, you'll find players with varying swing styles: open clubface positions, crossing the line at the top, looping swings, flying elbows, and even the notorious chicken wing. Yet, these golfers still control the ball exceptionally well. Why? Because the ball doesn't know or care how you look while swinging—it only reacts to impact.
Our Approach at Dennis Sales Golf Academy
As a performance coach who has worked with elite players, I prioritize motion and consistency. Our goal is to ensure players maintain their effective motion without significant deviation, monitored through cutting-edge technology and video analysis. This method helps players see their progress over time and ensures their training is focused and efficient. If your coach isn’t recording or tracking this information, it’s time for a change. Progress requires clear records and an objective understanding of where you started and where you're heading.
While technology plays a big role in our teaching, I avoid overwhelming students with technical details that could lead to overthinking. Instead, I translate complex data into simple, actionable steps to keep the game approachable and focused.
What Sets Dennis Sales Golf Academy Apart?
Our academy uses industry-leading technology to go beyond visual observations. We assess players’ strengths and weaknesses in both swing and ball control techniques and track their progress over time. We know every golfer is unique, with individual goals and aspirations. That’s why we customize our services to meet each player's needs. We offer:
Private golf lessons
Structured training sessions
On-course coaching
Club fitting
Open practice opportunities
Our services are available to both members and non-members, though memberships come with added perks. Ultimately, we’re committed to helping every golfer reach their goals through tailored programs and comprehensive support.
To start your improvement journey, please schedule your new student assessment now. Once the assessment is complete, you will receive a detailed report of our findings. If you like what you hear, we can discuss how to combine our services to build out your personalized development plan.
At Dennis Sales Golf Academy, you don’t just learn to play—you learn to play better, with clarity and confidence.