"I believe it is important to explain the 'whys' to my students, as I feel they are going to be much more engaged if they understand why I am recommending them to do something."
Meeting Each Student Where They Are
Coach Kari's teaching philosophy is built upon the reality that everyone comes to golf with different strengths, weaknesses and motivations.
Rather than trying to force a student to swing like someone else, Coach Kari highlights the student's strengths, combined with sound fundamentals, to develop a swing that can be repeated and produces the desired ball flight. She believes in improving the areas where each student may be weak physically, if at all possible. Coach Kari strives to give each student the tools to be their own teacher and coach - which is necessary since golf is an individual sport!
Coach Kari believes there are numerous ways to swing a golf club and produce a great golf shot. However, there are skill “match ups” that must happen to create the desired swing path and face angle. She assists her students in perfecting "their" swing!
"I always video the student's swing and together we create a plan of action. I want the student to walk away from the lesson feeling confident in what we worked on and knowing what I expect of him or her."
Technology and Teaching Aids
"In this day and age, if you aren’t using technology to teach, then you aren’t giving your student the best chance to succeed."
Coach Kari incorporates video and/or Hudl into every single one of her lessons, regardless of the student's ability or age. She believes that having visual feedback for each student is crucial to their understanding of the golf swing. Depending whether the lesson is inside or outside, and taking into account the ability of the student, she will also use Trackman technology. She also uses technology to follow up with students and monitor their practice and performance goals.
Some of Kari's favorite teaching aids include:
- the impact ball and impact bag
- the hanger
- alignment rods
- eyeline mirrors
- speed trap
- swingyde