If improvement in golf takes time, why do so many players, parents and even coaches expect instant results?
In this episode of The Golf Sit Down, Ryan Dailey, PGA and Seth Thompson, PGA kick off their first-ever Q&A format by tackling some of the most common (and most misunderstood) questions they receive. Drawing on years of coaching experience, player data, and personal stories, they offer practical advice for anyone involved in junior golf development. The throughline is clear: progress in golf is not linear, and understanding that reality is essential for players, parents, and coaches alike. From managing expectations around lessons, to navigating junior tournaments, to supporting emotional young golfers on the course, this episode pulls back the curtain on what long-term development in golf truly looks like.
What You’ll Hear About:
Why many golfers believe one lesson should “fix” their swing and how coaches can reframe that mindset
The importance of pre-lesson conversations and expectation-setting
How measurable data and player examples help golfers stay patient
Why improvement in golf mirrors development in martial arts more than traditional instruction
How many tournaments junior golfers should actually play each year
The “Rule of 20” and what it reveals about scoring, reps, and long-term growth
How parents can support emotional junior golfers without unintentionally adding pressure
“Most kids aren’t reacting to what a parent says, they’re reacting to how badly they want to do well in front of someone they love.” Seth Thompson, PGA
Key Takeaways for Golfers, Parents & Coaches
Improvement Requires Context, Not Just Instruction Before a lesson even begins, coaches should understand what a player believes a golf lesson is supposed to do. Many frustrations stem from mismatched expectations—not poor coaching or lack of effort.
Data Builds Belief Showing players before-and-after benchmarks, scoring trends, and examples of other golfers’ journeys helps normalize ups and downs. Progress becomes easier to trust when it’s visible.
Development Needs a Roadmap Programs like Operation 36 work because they provide a clear pathway—much like belt systems in martial arts. Players can see where they are, where they’re going, and what it takes to advance.
Reps Matter More Than Rankings For junior golfers with college aspirations, tournament experience is critical. The data consistently points to a key number: 20 competitive reps per year. Confidence and scoring ability are built through repetition, not shortcuts.
Emotional Growth Is Part of the Game Parents don’t need to disappear from tournaments, but they may need to adjust how they show up. Sometimes, giving players space (even walking a half-hole ahead) can dramatically improve emotional regulation and performance
This Q&A episode is a reminder that golf development, for players, parents, and coaches alike, is a long game. Frustration, inconsistency, and emotional swings aren’t signs that something is wrong; they’re signs that learning is happening.
When expectations are clear, progress is measured, and the process is trusted, golfers are far more likely to stay engaged and motivated over time. Whether you’re coaching beginners, supporting a junior golfer, or navigating your own competitive journey, patience and perspective matter.
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