A Lesson Learned: Don't over think your shot

October 25, 2009 -- Experience paid dividends at The Fry's.com Open for Troy Matteson in a playoff against two young guns, Jamie Lovemark and Rickie Fowler. After bogeying the last two holes of regulation to fall back into a tie for first, Matteson regrouped to capture the trophy. Coming into the event Matteson was 131st on the tour money list, but with the win he is assured a spot on the PGA Tour for the next two years. Jamie Lovemark and Rickie Fowler aren't even exempt PGA Tour members, but after this weeks showing that is about to change. Both have very bright futures ahead of them and we will be hearing from them in the very near future.

Rickie Fowler showed no fear on his way to a sizzling 64 on Sunday. (Photo: Getty Images)

I have to admit that I was rooting for Rickie Fowler to pull this one out. I am so impressed by the way this 20 year old goes about his business on the golf course. His coach, who has been teaching him since he was three years old termed his nickname, "Little Hawk", because of his business like approach at such a young age. This coupled with his background in motor cross serves him well with his fearless attitude on the golf course. I see nothing wrong with being aggressive as long as it is controlled and not costing you millions of dollars.

As I watch his final round posting of a 64 I am amazed at how composed and even keeled he is. He doesn't get too excited when he hits a good shot and doesn't get rattled when a shot goes off line. This is a great lesson for all of us. When it's his turn to play a shot he wastes no time in pulling the trigger. I like this because it tells me that he isn't over thinking. He is keeping it simple and trusts his first instinct. So many students that I work with are grinding it out in their minds too much. If you start to second guess yourself you will never hit a good shot because you just don't completely trust it.

This years PGA Tour season is coming to a close in a few weeks. Many players will be positioning themselves for next year while others will be heading back to Qualifying School .One thing is for sure after watching this weeks' event, the future of golf is going to be exciting with so many good young players on the rise...thanks Ricky and Jamie!

Dave Clark is A PGA Member in the North Florida Section. He is the Owner and operator of Dave Clark Golf. He also teaches for the Advantage Golf Schools as well as the Professional Golfers Career College in Orlando, Florida. His students range from the raw beginner to touring professionals. Dave can be reached at 407-963-8818 or visit him at his website: Daveclarkgolf.net