Thursday, August 12, 2010

This Is What I Mean

If we're going to achieve anything, we must be passionate, create a plan, and be totally committed to taking action towards that plan. I want to congratulate a few of my golf students who understand this equation, and are on track to accomplishing everything they want.

Ladies first, of course...


Mareon Smit 
She just won her first big tournament at the Ventura Junior Match Play Championship. This 17 year old is one of the most focused, discipline, and hard working athletes I've ever seen. She's been battling through some difficult obstacles, on and off the course, but is now beginning to realize how her work ethic is paying off.  She views these "obstacles" as opportunities, and is proving that nothing will stop her from reaching her goals. I mention her name to all of my students, no matter the sport. Everyone can learn from Mareon's attitude and dedication to the next level. Professional golf will be in her future if she continues to immerse herself in this process.





Jack Perry
This week, he finished second in the SCGA (Southern Cal. Golf Assoc.) Match Play Championship, having to beat many older and more experienced players along the way. At age 18, he was the youngest competitor in the field, but proved to be stronger, mentally and physically than 99% of the players. He's an incredible ball-striker, but has lacked self belief and a knowingness that he can dominate every time he steps onto the course. Without question, he's learning how to "flip the switch" from fear to an unwavering confidence and belief that he does belong. Jack's headed to Northwestern University next year, and will definitely be walking the courses as a professional in the future.




Matthew Hansen
He's currently playing in the NCGA (Northern Cal. Golf Accoc.) Match Play Championship, and winning big! Today, he defeated the #1 player in the NCGA, and at is competing in his next round as I write. At 18 years old, he is also one of the youngest players in the field, but is proving that age is only a number. Matthew has a calm, meticulous way about him... yet is a fearless competitor. When I texted him after one of his wins, reminding him to stay focused on mentally destroying his opponent, his simple reply: "That's the plan!" I laughed out loud, thinking how relaxed his message sounded. That's Matthew... calm, quiet, and ready to pounce. Later this month, he'll be playing in the U.S. Amateur, where the best amateurs in the country will be competing. He's off to UC Davis next year, and will be playing on the PGA Tour in the near future.

All three of these players wouldn't be where they are today without their swing coach, Don Parsons. http://thestudioattwinlakes.ning.com. He's an amazing coach who has committed himself to helping these kids take their games to another level. I feel privileged he asked me to be a part of the equation!

Everything you want is right there for the taking... immerse yourself in the process. 

4 comments:

Erica said...

i really like how you acknowledged these players. so much of your writing is very theoretical (i mean it makes complete sense and everything) but it's nice to see it in actual practice. bring it all together and everything, you know? i can't pin point it exactly, but i really liked this post

Dayne Gingrich said...

Thanks, Erica. It's nice to see it all come together for them. You know what this is all about... as you've gone through a lot of it, and will continue battling.

You WILL continue battling, right?

Sarah said...

And their outstanding golf coach, who did a great job guiding his students to excellence!

Midnight Whisperer said...

Dayne - Please forgive my absence these past few months. I just wanted to stop by and say hi... so... Hi! Looks like I have a lot of reading to catch up on. Can't wait!