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Working with young people has awakened me to my past. I had almost forgotten what it felt like until a beautiful 10-year-old showed up for lessons. Her name is Madison, and she has an infectious smile and a gleam in her eye. Her goals are to play good golf so she can be on her school team someday. We got to work, and her smile after hitting a perfect shot brought me instant joy. As a member of the LPGA, I have a commitment to help grow the game of golf. My mission is to attract as many boys and girls to the game as I can. In golf, juniors learn proper instruction, basic rules and etiquette. Most of all, golf builds self-esteem, which provides an incentive to improve. Through golf, I have an opportunity to teach kids more than golf instruction, because the course is a safe place to learn about life skills as well. Learning how to control your temper, emotions and overcoming defeat is a must in golf as well as life. Only a few will ever win a tournament, and disappointments are part of growing up. But you must have a positive attitude in everything you do, and golf is a perfect avenue for that. All of this can only happen if parents take an active role. Kids spending time with their parents in golf have an opportunity to bond with them. I’m fortunate that my juniors like having their parents around. I do wish more parents, however, taught their children to say “sir” or “ma’am.” Here’s what parents can do: • Stay involved. • Be supportive and encouraging. • Be there when they lose. • Be tough on cheating. • Don’t apply too much pressure to win. • Look supportive and relaxed on the golf course. Golf was founded on honesty and character development. It’s the only sport that teaches these moral issues, and golf is one of the few games where you keep your own score and call your own penalties. Bad behavior cannot be tolerated. Parents ask when kids should start playing golf. I believe as soon as they show an interest. I’m thankful I was introduced to golf at the age of 13. I played in some junior tournaments, but nothing like what they have now. I hope all young people will take advantage of this wonderful opportunity. It has been a privilege to play this great game. The friendships I have from junior golf have lasted a lifetime. It’s a wonderful journey and I hope you enjoy it. I still do. SG Sandra Palmer is director of women’s golf at Arroyo Trabuco Golf Club in Mission Viejo. She won 30 professional tournaments worldwide during her playing career, including three major championships. She can be reached at (949) 305-5100. |
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