Michigan Golf Journal September 2020

Michigan Golf Journal Junior Golf Leading Edge Golf Golf Magazine Top 50 Clubfitter in North America (517)253-0960 legolfshop.com 2805 Jolly Rd Ste 260 Okemos, MI 48864 Right across the street fromOkemos High School M-F 10-7PM Sat 10-6pm of junior golf and his goals in high school. He said it was college, and if a parent could get at least a 50-percent scholarship to a school such as Vanderbilt, that represents a $100,000 return on investment over four years. “It’s totally worth it,” he said. But for most junior golfers, a scholarship of any type to a college or university is a rarity . So, the goal has to be questioned. And to quote former President John Adams, “Facts are stubborn things.” We have scientific evidence about how to train children in athletics. And we know the negative consequences if we don’t abide by them. It’s best to introduce activities to children, let them find a place to play, and encourage their soft skills: be tough, be patient, be kind. The competitive nature in children doesn’t have be stoked by parents. Otherwise, we will continue to see incidents like the one that an editor friend of mine experienced. He played in a team event with a junior golfer who was ranked at the top of her age group. He asked her what the goal was. According to him, she said cynically: “Eighteen. Then I can get into college and not have to play golf again.” MGJ Shawn Allen is a former teacher and track coach who loves the mechanics of golf. He has contributed to  The Golfer’s Journal ,  SBNation , and  Sports Illustrated . He lives in Nashville, Tenn. You can follow him on Twitter @ShawnerAllen