Lesson Tee: Jeff Coston

When you miss greens, you need to know how to play your wedges

I am sure everyone is at the apex of their golf season. Whether your playing with friends; a club championship; or the United States Open; patience and responding to adversity are essential to success. Golf rounds are seldom without some setbacks. If we realize mistakes and semi wayward shots are part of the game we will score lower. The goal is to begin to eliminate many of the mistakes, be patient and respond mentally tough. This is so important when shots and holes do not go according to plan.

I experienced this during the Washington Senior Open. I was playing well, I was the four-time defending champion and I wanted to make it four. Each day I started out strong and then a crazy circumstance would happen or I’d make a mistake. Some silly mistakes. I had to persevere, be patient and be my own best friend. It was difficult and definitely a choice. I had to keep my self-talk positive. Fortunately the back nine in the final round things paid off. I shot 30 the last nine and 65 the final round to win my fourth Washington Senior Open in a row. Wow, I must be old! Let’s call it a young 54. My point is: patience, mental toughness, positive attitude and self talk pay off in any round of golf.

I’d like to talk about pitching, chipping and wedge play. Few golfers spend enough time on this area of the game. I have learned from some great tour pro’s some keys around the green. Everyone misses greens. Chipping, pitching and wedge play are a sure quick way to lower scores.

With a limited practice schedule, I find myself using my 60-degree wedge because a higher lofted club can be played back in your stance which assures a more descending blow and a solid strike. (photo 1) Most people call their 60-degree a lob wedge. I do not. I do not because I hit many low shots with my 60-degree wedge. Obviously I hit high shots also. For low shots the ball goes back in my stance and my weight leans left. My chest is on top of the ball to assure a solid strike. The bottom of the club descends through the roots of the grass, not the tops of the blades. Down and through it. I always lead with my hands and the grip of the club. I hold the angle of my hands through the finish. (photo 2)

If I want a medium flight the ball is in the center of my stance. For a higher shot the ball is slightly forward with the face open.

With any pitch and chip shot the grip and handle of the club is always pointed at my belt buckle.

The principles of the stroke are always the same. Weight left. Chest on the ball. Descending blow. Down through the roots of the grass. Keep the hands and grip leading.
Jeff Coston is an 11-time NW PGA Player of the Year. He can be reached for appointment by calling 360.201.4590.