The Golf Parent, episode 62
How to Help Your Junior Golfer Gain Distance - Bernie Najar
2026-05-08
What does it really take to develop a successful junior golfer, and what are most parents getting wrong along the way? In this powerful episode of The Golf Parent, Bernie Najar, one of the most respected coaches in the game and the 2026 PGA National Teacher and Coach of the Year, shares the bluepri
Tips paraphrased from The Golf Parent (hosted by Ryan Addams). These are our summaries from machine transcripts, not quotes, and times are approximate. All credit to the shows and their guests; listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
When training speed, don't critique misses left or right. Kids won't swing fast if they're worried about accuracy, so "hit it into the ocean."
Bernie Najar (Kyle Berkshire's coach) · The Golf Parent
Speed and distance
Don't copy gym or speed programs from online. Get a movement screen and a qualified pro; wrong training (e.g. squats without ankle mobility) can hurt the swing or cause injury.
Bernie Najar (Kyle Berkshire's coach) · The Golf Parent
Speed and distance · Choosing a coach · Multisport
Big picture for parents: give kids proper fundamentals so they're skillful and having fun competing locally first.
Bernie Najar (Kyle Berkshire's coach) · The Golf Parent
Making practice fun · Parent role