What does it really take to develop junior golfers the right way?

In this episode of The Golf Sitdown, we sit down with Steve Brewer, Director of Instruction at Dubsdread Golf Course and a national ambassador for Operation 36.

Steve shares how he’s built one of the largest junior development programs in the country — serving 150+ juniors and 1,000+ adults annually — while staying committed to a simple principle:

👉 The number is still 36.

👉 Follow Steve on Instagram: @dubsdread_golf_learning_center

🎙️ Subscribe for more conversations with top coaches and minds in golf. The Golf Sit Down: https://linktr.ee/TheGolfSitDown Host: Ryan Dailey, PGA @ryandaileygolf Co-Host: Seth Thompson, PGA @seth_thompsongolf Executive Producer: A.J. Reimann @a.j._reimann

We dive into:

Why players must come to the course MORE as they improve How to manage parent expectations without lowering standards Why lowering the benchmark hurts long-term development The real reason kids “burn out” How to create structure, accountability, and measurable progress Why coaching is more than just teaching the golf swing

If you’re a golf coach, parent, or player serious about long-term improvement, this episode is packed with gold.

Chapters

00:00 Expectations for Parents and Players 02:53 Player Development and Training Frequency 07:38 Managing Expectations in Golf 12:18 The Role of Coaches and Communication 17:10 The Importance of a Supportive Environment 21:37 Setting Realistic Goals and Benchmarks 26:11 The Journey of Improvement in Golf 30:58 Final Thoughts and Reflections

#Operation36 #JuniorGolf #GolfCoaching #YouthSports #GolfDevelopment #GolfParents #TheGolfSitdown

Golf improvement is usually judged by feel — but what if you could actually measure progress?

In this Real Talk episode of The Golf Sit Down, PGA Professionals Ryan Dailey and Seth Thompson break down the massive milestone of 1 MILLION strokes lost inside Operation 36 and why it matters for players, parents, and coaches.

We dive into: • Why most golfers think they’re not improving (when they are) • The psychology of motivation in golf • How measurable progress keeps players from quitting • Why traditional lessons often fail beginners • How junior golfers stay engaged long-term • The truth about scoring vs skill improvement

If you’re a parent, coach, or golfer frustrated with slow progress — this episode explains what actually works.

🎙️ Subscribe for more honest conversations about golf development, coaching, and improvement.

The Golf Sit Down: https://linktr.ee/TheGolfSitDown Host: Ryan Dailey, PGA @ryandaileygolf Co-Host: Seth Thompson, PGA @seth_thompsongolf Executive Producer: A.J. Reimann @a.j._reimann

Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Real Talk in Golf 01:18 Milestones in Operation 36 05:52 Understanding Strokes Lost 10:43 The Impact of Objective Metrics 15:45 The Role of Coaches in Development 20:26 Celebrating a Million Strokes Lost

#Golf #Operation36 #GolfImprovement #JuniorGolf #GolfCoaching #GolfTips #GolfPractice #LearnGolf #GolfParents #GolfPodcast #PGAPro #GolfDevelopment #GolfMotivation #PlayBetterGolf #TheGolfSitDown

In this episode of The Golf Sit Down, we’re joined by George Roy, founder of George Roy Golf and creator of the Low Zone Training System, for a deep dive into how golfers should actually practice.

George breaks down:

The adaptive learning model in golf Why skill development matters more than technique early on How parents can help juniors practice without burnout The importance of failure, variability, and exploration Why most practice ranges are poorly designed for learning How to create purposeful, game-like practice environments

We also talk junior golf development, supervised practice vs private lessons, group training, community building, and how coaches can avoid common mistakes that slow player progress.

Whether you’re a coach, parent, junior golfer, or competitive player, this episode will change the way you think about practice.

👉 Learn more about George Roy Golf & training aids https://www.georgeroygolf.com/ 👉 Follow George on Instagram: @georgeroy_golf

🎙️ Subscribe for more conversations with top coaches and minds in golf. The Golf Sit Down: https://linktr.ee/TheGolfSitDown Host: Ryan Dailey, PGA @ryandaileygolf Co-Host: Seth Thompson, PGA @seth_thompsongolf Executive Producer: A.J. Reimann @a.j._reimann

Chapters

00:00 The Journey of George Roy: From Wrestling to Golf Coaching 00:14 Adaptive Learning in Golf: Understanding Skill Development 09:01 Creating a Unique Learning Environment: The Driving Range Experience 18:13 The Importance of Adversity in Learning 22:37 Understanding Exponential Decay in Skill Development 29:56 The Value of Group Coaching vs. Private Lessons 35:30 Creating a Supportive Community for Young Athletes 39:44 Common Mistakes Parents Make in Youth Sports 43:35 Advice for New Coaches: Focus on Exploration

#GolfPractice #GolfCoaching #JuniorGolf #AdaptiveLearning #GolfInstruction #SkillDevelopment #GolfParents #GolfPodcast #TheGolfSitDown #PurposefulPractice #GolfTraining #PlayerDevelopment

In this Golf Sit Down Podcast Q&A episode, PGA Professionals Ryan Dailey and Seth Thompson answer real questions from golf coaches, parents, and junior golfers.

We break down:

Why junior golf improvement takes time

How OP 36 creates a clear development roadmap

How many tournaments junior golfers should actually play

Why scores are not linear (and why that’s normal)

The powerful Rule of 20 in junior golf development

How parents can help juniors manage emotions during tournaments

Whether you’re a junior golfer with college aspirations, a parent navigating tournament golf, or a coach managing expectations, this episode delivers practical, experience-based advice backed by real data.

📌 Topics include OP 36 levels, AJGA vs local tournaments, emotional control, patience in coaching, and long-term development strategies.

👉 Drop your questions in the comments — future Q&A episodes are coming!

🧢 Comment "At Least 20" for your chance to win a free OP36 Hat!

The Golf Sit Down: https://linktr.ee/TheGolfSitDown Host: Ryan Dailey, PGA @ryandaileygolf Co-Host: Seth Thompson, PGA @seth_thompsongolf Executive Producer: A.J. Reimann @a.j._reimann

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Q&A Format 00:44 Coaching Young Golfers: Managing Expectations 05:19 Navigating Junior Golf Tournaments 12:39 Supporting Emotional Junior Golfers

#juniorgolf #AtLeast20 #Operation36 #OP36 #GolfCoaching #JuniorGolfDevelopment #CollegeGolf #YouthGolf #GolfParents #GolfPodcast #PGAGolf #JuniorGolfJourney #GolfSitDown

In this episode of The Golf Sit Down, we’re joined by Kristi Roach, PGA of Canada professional, 2024 PGA Atlantic Teacher of the Year, Operation 36 coach, and former school teacher.

Kristi shares her unique journey from college golf to classroom teaching to full-time golf coaching, and how her background as a middle school teacher and mom shapes the way she develops junior golfers today.

We dive deep into: -How to properly develop junior golfers long-term -Why Operation 36 works so well for kids and parents -Coaching vs parenting on the golf course -Early specialization vs multi-sport development -Helping kids handle frustration, emotions, and pressure -The importance of nutrition and hydration during tournaments -Why coaches should still play and compete -How parents can best support young golfers without overstepping

This episode is packed with practical advice for golf parents, coaches, and junior players looking to build confidence, resilience, and a love for the game.

📍 Follow Kristi Roach on Instagram @kristi_roach 📍 Learn more about Operation 36 junior golf development 📍 Perfect for parents, coaches, and competitive junior golfers

🎧 Subscribe for more conversations on long-term golf development, coaching, and player growth.

The Golf Sit Down: https://linktr.ee/TheGolfSitDown Host: Ryan Dailey, PGA @ryandaileygolf Co-Host: Seth Thompson, PGA @seth_thompsongolf Executive Producer: A.J. Reimann @a.j._reimann

Chapters

00:00 Christie's Journey in Golf Coaching 03:44 A Day in the Life of a Golf Coach 13:20 The Importance of Finding the Right Coach 14:04 Classroom Management Techniques for Coaches 18:36 Seth's Journey in Coaching 19:33 Characteristics of Successful Young Golfers 21:16 The Importance of Peer Influence in Golf 22:26 Navigating Motivation and Commitment in Young Athletes 27:43 Coping with Emotional Upset in Young Golfers 33:37 Nutrition and Hydration for Young Golfers 39:27 The Role of Coaches in Continuous Learning

#JuniorGolf #Operation36 #GolfParents #YouthGolf #GolfCoaching #JuniorGolfDevelopment #GolfInstruction #GolfPodcast #WomensGolf #PGAofCanada #GolfCoach #YouthSports #GolfLife #GrowingTheGame

In this episode of The Golf Sit Down, we sit down with Dan Bubany, PGA Professional, to break down what actually leads to long-term golf improvement — and why traditional one-hour golf lessons often fail players, parents, and coaches.

Dan shares his journey from broadcast journalism to full-time golf coaching, and explains why group coaching, on-course training, and results-based development outperform private instruction in nearly every way. From junior golf development to adult amateurs struggling to break 90, this episode is packed with actionable insights.

We cover:

Why group coaching creates faster improvement The difference between a golf coach and an instructor How parents can best support junior golfers (without pushing) Why training on the driving range doesn’t translate to the golf course How accountability, process, and results all work together What traits the best golf students share How coaches can shift toward modern, sustainable coaching models

If you’re a parent of a junior golfer, a golf coach, or a player frustrated with slow progress, this episode will challenge everything you think you know about golf instruction.

📩 Learn more about Dan Bubany: Instagram: @danbubanygolf Website: danbubanygolf.com

🎧 Subscribe for more conversations on long-term golf development, coaching, and player growth.

The Golf Sit Down: https://linktr.ee/TheGolfSitDown Host: Ryan Dailey, PGA @ryandaileygolf Co-Host: Seth Thompson, PGA @seth_thompsongolf Executive Producer: A.J. Reimann @a.j._reimann

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background of Dan Bubany 00:13 Transitioning from Broadcasting to Golf Coaching 04:53 The Importance of Group Coaching in Golf 09:53 Engaging Parents in the Coaching Process 14:33 Cultivating Intellectual Curiosity in Players 19:14 Supporting Junior Golfers and Their Development 24:11 The Importance of Accountability in Coaching 27:05 Results-Based Coaching: Balancing Outcomes and Process 32:02 Navigating Coaching Relationships: When to Move On 35:40 The Future of Coaching: Group Dynamics and Community 39:33 Transforming Golf Instruction: From Lessons to Play 44:01 The Evolution of Coaching Philosophy

#GolfCoaching #JuniorGolf #GolfDevelopment #GolfParents #GolfPodcast #ModernGolf #GroupGolfCoaching #PGACoach #GolfInstruction #Break90 #YouthGolf #GolfTraining

In this episode of The Golf Sit Down, Ryan and Seth sit down with Ben Polland, PGA, Director of Golf at Shooting Star (WY) and reigning 2024 PGA Professional Champion. Ben shares his incredible journey from late-blooming high school golfer to competing on the Korn Ferry Tour, PGA TOUR events, and representing the PGA of America internationally.

We dig into:

• Why competing often is the fastest way to grow • The mental game shift that changed Ben’s career • How to pick a great coach (and when to move on) • Why junior golfers MUST play more tournaments • What Ben learned playing with Scottie Scheffler • How to practice with purpose — even while working full-time

If you're a junior golfer, parent, coach, or competitive golf nerd, this episode is packed with insights you can use TODAY.

👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more elite-level conversations! Hosts: Ryan Dailey, PGA & Seth Thompson, PGA Executive Producer: A.J. Reimann Find The Golf Sit Down: https://linktr.ee/TheGolfSitDown

⏱️ Chapter Markers

00:00 – Intro: Welcome Ben Pollin, PGA 00:09 – Ben’s background & growing up in Minnesota 02:00 – Choosing golf over baseball 03:00 – Why Ben chose Campbell University 04:10 – Early struggles & learning modern instruction 06:00 – Internships at Sebonack & Deepdale 07:30 – First major success & qualifying for nationals 09:40 – Turning pro & chasing the tour dream 11:00 – Competing to get better 14:00 – Playing with Scottie Scheffler 17:00 – Learning from elite players 19:00 – When self-belief finally clicked 21:00 – Pressure on tour vs. freedom now 23:00 – Managing a team while competing 24:30 – The importance of good coaching 27:20 – How to know if coaching is working 30:20 – Grip changes & experimentation 32:38 – Junior golf challenges & building programs 33:49 – How tournaments shape young players 35:49 – The Catherine Andino story 37:30 – How many tournaments juniors should play 38:52 – Mental freedom & pressure 39:50 – Why nerves are GOOD 41:38 – Big takeaways for parents & juniors 42:47 – Growth & comfort don’t coexist 43:26 – Closing thoughts & gratitude

#GolfPodcast #PGA #BenPollin #GolfTips #JuniorGolf #GolfImprovement #PGAProfessional #GolfMindset #GolfTraining #CompetitionGolf #KornFerryTour #GolfParents #GolfJourney

In this episode of The Golf Sit Down, Ryan Dailey and Seth Thompson sit down with Randall Henry, CEO of Henry-Griffitts, one of golf’s most respected custom-fitting companies.

Randall shares incredible behind-the-scenes stories from decades in the golf industry — from tour players in the 1980s to revolutionizing how juniors and beginners get fit today.

We break down:

Why most golfers are using clubs that are too strong

How ill-fitting clubs create lifelong swing flaws

Why lie angle matters more than you think

How Henry-Griffitts and Op36 are reinventing junior club fitting

Personal stories from tour ranges, Bill Russell's clubs, and what REALLY happens with off-the-rack sets

If you're a parent, coach, or golfer wanting to improve faster, this episode is packed with insights that will completely change the way you think about equipment.

Check out the new Operation 36 Golf Clubs Here https://op36shop.com/products/clubs

🎙️ Subscribe for more conversations with top coaches and educators shaping the future of golf learning.

Hosts: Ryan Dailey, PGA & Seth Thompson, PGA Executive Producer: A.J. Reimann Find The Golf Sit Down: https://linktr.ee/TheGolfSitDown

#GolfPodcast #ClubFitting #HenryGriffitts #Op36 #JuniorGolf #GolfCoaching #GolfEquipment #GolfTips #CustomFitting #GolfSwing