The Science and Art of Putting with PGA Coach David Orr

Operation 36

Is putting a skill you can truly “fix”…or is it something that must be developed through experience?

This week on The Golf Sit Down, we’re joined by PGA Coach David Orr—a Golf Digest Top 50 Teacher, Golf Magazine Top 100 Teacher, and the coach behind Flatstick Academy. David has coached 85+ tour players and helped shape parts of the Op 36 green-reading and putting framework used by coaches worldwide.

What You’ll Hear About:

We dive into:

“Learn it where you use it.” Why putting skills must be built on the golf course—not just a mat
The 4 environments of development: lesson tee, practice green, golf course, tournament
From Aim–Roll–Stop to Face–Head–Shaft: a clear progression that sticks
Parent playbook: support without fear, pressure, or runaway expectations
Junior putter K.I.S.S.: keep it simple with length, grip size, and overall weight
Skills that travel: acclimating to different grasses, speeds, and slopes

“There are four different environments golfers must learn to perform in: the lesson tee, the practice green, the golf course, and the tournament. Each adds a new layer of stress.” – David Orr

The Four Environments of Development

David explained that putting is not about “fixes” but about developing skills across four different environments. Each stage adds new stress, and only by experiencing all four can players develop confidence that sticks.

From Mats to Real Greens

Parents and coaches often focus on mechanics at home or on the putting mat, but David reminds us that real learning happens on the course. Each green is different—slopes, speeds, and reads vary—and those variables teach golfers how to adapt. This is where skills like green reading, distance control, and emotional regulation take root.

Advice for Parents

Many parents want quick fixes, but David stresses patience. Avoid labeling your child as a “bad putter” or pushing too hard too early. Encourage discovery, let them finish every putt, and focus on growth over results.

“If you tell a seven-year-old they’re a bad putter, you plant a seed of fear that can last for years. Parents need to let kids self-discover and simply support the process.” – David Orr

Keeping It Simple with Equipment

When it comes to juniors, fancy putters aren’t the answer. Keep it simple:

Prioritize length (too long or too short creates poor posture)
Use smaller grips for better feel and fine motor control
Avoid overly heavy heads that limit awareness

The goal is to match the player’s development stage, not the latest marketing trend.

Key Takeaway

David Orr’s wisdom reminds us that putting development isn’t about shortcuts or gadgets. It’s about patient growth, learning in real environments, and supporting players the right way. Whether you’re a coach or a parent, focus on helping juniors build skills that will travel with them for life.

Listen to and subscribe to The Golf Sit Down Podcast for more insights from coaches shaping the future of golf.

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