I think golf needs a belt system like that of the martial
arts. There is a beautiful integrity in the belt system where the teacher only
advances the student to a new level when legitimately earned. I believe golf instructors
should put a thin strip of colored tape underneath their students’ grips to symbolize
the various of stages of understanding and mastery of the game.
The golf belt system could look something like this:
WHITE BELT: Brand new golfer or experienced golfer with improper
fundamentals. Student does not yet have a steady foundation on which to advance
their game.
YELLOW BELT: Golfer has developed a basic understanding of
proper technique for grip, setup, and swing. This golfer can begin to learn
their tendencies on the range and course via structured practice.
ORANGE BELT: Golfer is actively engaging in structured
practice to better understand the basics and their personal tendencies. The golfer
should begin to learn how to hit a draw, fade, low, and high shots. This golfer
can begin to produce their intended shot shape via drills on the range.
PURPLE BELT: The golfer understands theory of cause in effect
in relationship to ball flights. This golfer can begin to produce their
intended shot in casual play on the golf course.
BLUE BELT: The golfer demonstrates a mastery of ball flight
theory on the golf course and can begin entering competitions.
GREEN BELT: The golfer has been humbled by the challenge of
competition. Training becomes more disciplined to better employ capabilities in
the stress of competition.
BROWN BELT: The golfer has entered into the advanced phase of
training. This golfer is experienced, knowledgeable, actively studying, and
competitive in stroke play events.
RED BELT: The golfer is nearing mastery. Golfer begins to mix
their personality with learned technique as confidence grows and comfort with creativity
in competition builds. This golfer has won a professional stroke play event.
BLACK BELT: The golfer has achieved a GREAT level of
achievement in competition marked by a win in a world ranked professional
stroke play event. The golfer has
achieved a master level of understanding and self-awareness. The golfer
realizes the black belt was not the goal.
