Old Bridge Golf Club has quite a few holes where out of bounds is inexcusable. Look at No. 2 as an example. If you miss your drive down the left side - even deep left - there is not a chance that you can get in trouble, but down the right side there is out of bounds.
Nos. 4 and 5 are the same situation. I am amazed at how many shots go out of bounds on those two holes.
When I'm working with the Centre College golf team, I focus on the players' swings, and coach Brian Chafin will often discuss course management with the players. Between the two of us, we hear a lot of thoughts and ideas regarding these issues with course management.
One excuse that I have difficult time with is that a player will say, "I try not to focus on or acknowledge the out of bounds or hazard."
We do not want a player to freak out or get nervous when these obstacles are presented, but we must acknowledge their existence. We cannot simply set up to the golf ball and pretend they don't exist.
On No. 4 at Old Bridge, realize that there is out of bounds down the right side and aim down the left fairway. That way if you do push your tee ball right, you will still be safe. Down the middle or right side is ludicrous.
Coach Chafin has very little patience with dumb shots and quite often will ask a player why he or she hit the ball there. He is absolutely right. There are often no excuses.
When your round is finished and your score is off, go back and count the poor course management situations and work on eliminating these from your round.
Course management can be the difference between a good score and a poor score. Avoid penalties and play smart golf.
