What JGA Means to Me:
Having joined the JGA when I was around six years-old and worked my way up to Group A, the JGA has been a big part of my life. There are a lot of answers to the question, ‘What the JGA Means to Me’, such as (1) I learned to respect the rules of golf, via the annual test each year, (2) I learned independence, because parents are not allowed to help with choosing clubs or strategy or keeping score, and (3) I learned comradery and good sportsmanship, cheering on my opponents when they do well.
One answer that may not be so obvious is that I have learned to hone my mindfulness skills on the golf course. I am a mental health advocate, speaking to groups about how to cope with stress and emotions, and one thing I teach is that mindfulness is not always just sitting with legs crossed and eyes closed. It can be practiced anywhere, such as a sport you love or listening to a favorite song. I didn’t always believe that, but as I’ve grown, so has my definition of mindfulness. For me, listening to music while on the range or on the course has helped me find balance and get centered. Focusing on the present moment is a big part of mindfulness, and golf really helps teach that because it is a mental sport.
Now, as a golf coach myself, I teach other six to twelve-year-old children about the sport and the mental aspect of it, helping them to find calm and focus as well. So, in addition to being able to improve my golf skills, develop some great relationships with people, and teach others, I will always be grateful to the JGA and the game for being a mindful practice.
