SWING YOUR IRONS LIKE YOU’RE IN NO RUSH

I’ve always felt that iron play is the strength of my game. It’s the reason I’m OK giving up 10 or 20 yards to the bigger hitters—I’m confident I can hit my 6-iron just as close, if not closer, than they hit their 8-irons.

My first tip to being good on approach shots is sticking with the swing you trust the most. For me, it’s a mid-high cut (see my thoughts on how I play that shot, page 24). Whatever shot you like to play, remember that you don’t have to hit it to six feet to be a great iron player. There’s nothing wrong with putting it somewhere on the green and relying more on your putter. Only go flag hunting when the situation matches your go-to shot.

As far as Xs and Os, my coach, Rick Sessinghaus, and I like to keep it pretty simple. One aspect we focus on is rhythm. I have a pretty deliberate tempo, and sometimes I get quick in transition trying to manufacture speed. I’ve found that if I focus on finishing the swing in perfect balance—the trophy pose—I subconsciously make a smooth transition and maintain good rhythm from start to finish.

One drill I keep coming back to is a simple one I’ve done since childhood. I’ll put a glove under my left armpit and try to keep it pinned there for as long as I can during the swing. This helps my arms stay more connected to my body on the backswing. I have a tendency to pick the club up rather than turn with it, which results in a wipey fade that always comes up short and right of the target.

I also hit a ton of half-swing punch shots, which is a great way to identify any issues you might be having through impact because it’s a smooth, controllable motion.