Coffee with Rudy Duran

I'm the grumpy looking one on the right.



A while ago I embarked on a journey to increase my well of coaching knowledge seeking out a number of people who have expertise in specialist sections of golf and education.



This led me to a man with an undeniable pedigree in long term junior coaching, an area of particular passion for me, Rudy Duran Tiger Woods' first coach. I need to clarify Tiger is not the only player to have benefited from this master coaches skills.

I arranged to meet at San Jose airport, California. We then made a short trip to Starbucks (a courtesy cup of coffee would be appreciated for the mention guys! )


So with a suitable cappuccino to hand, we started to discuss Rudy's philosophy and experiences. Initially the discussion moved to enabling Tiger and others to build the love of the game, the enjoyment of playing the game and encouraging games based coaching as opposed to tasks.


How regular was Tigers' coaching ? around 3 hours a week on average, this is followed by the fact that no one has burnt out doing something they enjoy! Also that he was coached, not taught, with questions how do you get they ball to go higher Tiger? Show me. An emphasis on enabling discovery of the skill by the pupil from an early age, the benefits are clear later with more self awareness - and belief. Which of course makes us question the tell method of do this do that!!


We chatted over the importance of socialisation and group environment, taking out the stress of performance, minimising doubts and building confidence with measurable success, each child has a personal par relative to current build, strength and ability.


The importance of the correct equipment. Tiger often had adjustments to his clubs within months, tracking growth.


The conversation flowed for a couple of hours just enquiring what worked also what didn't, there are many other thoughts and views I will certainly be implementing this year as my own coaching program progresses.


For more info into Rudy's coaching the must read is In Every Kid Lurks a Tiger

Thanks for your time Rudy and I look forward to exchanging many more thoughts.