How Do I Become a Pro Golfer

Question
QUESTION: Recently I've been thinking hard about taking my game to the next level and am
very curious how to do so. I play at a private college and have finished in the top
5 and 10 in my last 3 tournaments. I really want to play golf on a competitive
level and may be some day the tour. How would I go about doing it?

ANSWER: Hi Andrew:

First let me ask a few questions of you.  What tournaments have you won?  What tournaments have you won in your state?  Have you won any tournaments on a national level?  How old are you, how long have you played competitively and what is your current stroke average?  Please answer my questions of you Andrew and then I can give you a realistic view of what you will need to do to accomplish your goal of someday playing the PGA Tour.  I will tell you exactly what you need to do.  Thank you.  

Eddie Kilthau
PGA Member

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I haven't one a tournament yet. I've only played in 3 school sponsored
tournaments with 50 or less college level golfers. My handicap is a 3. I have
been playing since i was about 13 but haven't played on a team since this year. I
plan on playing in the city tournament and a city tournaments this summer and
fall.

Answer
Hi Andrew:

It sounds like you are of college age Andrew.  And it sounds as if you are just starting to learn how to play.  Playing competitively at the college level, you should be able to win one or two events per year.  Instead of the next level, let's discuss your next goal.  Let's keep your success steps within sight.  Your next goal should be to win your first tournament.  To do that, you'll need to get good PGA golf instruction, practice 6 days per week for a minimum of 3 hours per day.  Focus mostly on your short game, giving 60% of your practice time to improving your chipping, putting, pitching and sand game.  40% needs to be focused on your long game.  You must develop a repeating golf swing, increase your strength and flexibility, make sure you have top of the line equipment that is new (taking advantage of technology) and then you must start competing in every city and state amateur event you can get into or qualify for.  When you win your first tournament, then you will be ready to go to the next level.  Until then, find yourself a real good PGA Professional in your area, schedule some lessons and ask if you can get a break on price if you purchase a series of lessons or better yet if you purchase a year's worth of lessons (say 12-20 lessons) in advance.  Most Pro's will discount for packages.  Then MAKE THE COMMITMENT TO GET BETTER.  6 days per week, minimum of 3 hours of practice per day.  You'll need to play 3-4 times per week as well, even if that is only 9 holes.  Plus you'll need to compete for the school as well.  Good luck, let me know when you have won your first golf tournament.  Only then should you think about "the next level."  

Eddie Kilthau
PGA Member