Get to Know Your Pro... Mike Morgan, PGA Head Professional at Oakridge

Get to Know Your Pro…

This series of articles will allow you to gain an insight into the Landings Golf Professional Staff’s teaching styles, training preferences and tips.

MIKE MORGAN,  PGA Head Professional at Oakridge

What is your favorite part of the game to practice:

My favorite part of the game to practice is shots from 25-75 yards. I have great memories of playing games with my friends trying to get up and down from difficult situations around the green. We would place balls behind trees, in divots, stick a flagstick 2 feet behind a bunker, etc.  My skills and love of the game grew because we made practice FUN and challenging. 

What is the part of your game that needs the most attention:

I need the most practice at staying in the moment. There have been numerous rounds where I get 2 or 3 under par and begin thinking about shooting 64 or 65. I need the most practice at thinking about the current shot, not about the reachable par 5 I have on the next hole. 

What is the one way a student can practice better?

To improve practice, one can play games, simulate course situations and add pressure to the shot. Otherwise, practice will instead just be a way to get exercise or enjoy the outdoors.

List your top 3 teaching specialties or favorite skills to teach:

My top 3 specialties/favorites are putting, bunkers/wedges and full swing, in that order.

What are your preferred training tools or technology?

My preferred training aids are the laser alignment aid for putting, tour sticks, impact bag and video (when appropriate).

What percentage are you teaching a new concept to a student and what percentage are you coaching that student? 

This depends on the player. If he or she is a beginner, then over 90% of a lesson might be spent teaching a new concept. A lesson with a  lower handicapper would be more like 10% of the time is spent on a new concept while 90% would be spent on coaching.

What are your goals as a teacher and coach?

My goals as a teacher/coach are to help the golfer reach their goals, improve their game and enjoy their time on the range and course.