Station design and methodology for chipping, pitching, putting, and bunker play.📄 ICC Athletic Development Plan (PDF)
THE SCORING ZONE PHILOSOPHY
Strokes gained research consistently shows: the largest skill gap between handicap levels is NOT in the full swing — it's in the short game. A junior who can get up-and-down from anywhere will score better than one with a perfect driver swing who can't chip.
Always include at least 50% short game time in junior sessions under age 14.
3–5 distinct chip shots from different lies (fairway, rough, tight lie, uphill)
Multiple targets: flags at different distances and angles
Physical measurement tools: driver as measuring stick (proximity benchmark)
Rotate targets every 5–8 minutes to prevent block practice
Just get the ball on the green. Any technique. External focus only.
"Make the ball hop onto the grass"
Technique discussion. Let them find it.
Introduction to setup fundamentals. Narrow stance, weight forward, ball back, handle leading.
"Lean the shaft toward the target, then swing"
One technique cue max per session.
Introduce club selection for trajectory. High chip (60°) vs. low chip (7-iron) vs. bump-and-run.
"The ball should land before the fringe and roll to the hole"
Use the least lofted club that will clear the obstacle.
Distinguish from chipping: pitching = more carry, more loft, less roll. For ages 11+.
Key: Full wrist hinge, shoulder-width stance, equal weight, accelerate through.
Hit over a bucket placed between ball and target
Multiple distance stations (3ft, 6ft, 10ft, 15ft, 20ft minimum)
Actual hole if available, or designated target cups
Gate drill: two tees 1/2" wider than putter head — thread the gate
Distance control station: putting to a line (no hole) for speed training
Eyes over the ball
Putter face square to target at address
Pendulum stroke — shoulders rock, not wrists
Accelerate through — never decelerate
Speed first, direction second.
Most missed putts are missed because of incorrect speed, not incorrect line.
Body of sand required.
Open stance, open face
Hit 2 inches behind the ball (splash the sand)
Finish high
COMMON ERROR
Trying to hit the ball instead of the sand.
"Draw a line 2 inches behind the ball. Hit the line."