It doesn't take long for golf to choose a new young golfer. Once the bug bites, the speed with which they advance can be staggering.

When I'm privileged to guide a youngster through their early development I first establish the basics - then identify and modify any individual anomalies.

I voice outloud the ritual of preparation and performance for each golf stroke and say often, "That may not be the best shot you've hit today, but it was an excellent swing".

Then I remind our young golfer which piece of the process needs modification.