I think there may be some benefit to league though, well for my game anyways. This weekend illustrated to me more then ever that i need to get that play in.
Here’s why:
1st round of the tournament, i was matched with random people, no one in my group was in my division or even shooting from the same tee as me, so i essentially played the game in a vacuum with ppl to talk to. No pressure on the shots because it was first round on a new course. I played a great game, came in 3 under par, and even missed a ton of birdie opps, so my -3 could have easily been a -6 or even -7.
2nd round, matched with guys in my division and around my score, we only played the front nine, i held a par which was equal to the front nine on my first round. But i also didn't leave myself any birdie opps like i had before, i even double bogged a hole, which i didn’t do the first time.
3rd and final round, this was for the chips. I started the round 5 strokes ahead of my nearest competition, provided i played an even game, and my opponent didn’t improve in anyway, it should have been an easy win. However I just barely won by playoff. How did this happen? Simple; I lost all confidence in my game and cracked under pressure. Barely any bird opts or birds for that matter, lots of bogeys and even a double. I was missing 5 foot putts on more then one occasion. I totally psyche myself out playing against a 13 yr old boy. His game stayed rock solid consistent, where i added 9, yes NINE strokes to my game, it was totally mine to lose and i almost did.
Maybe what i need is more experience playing under pressure? Shayne and silver surfer have become excellent opponents this summer, and i constantly tie with silver surfer. But it's still relaxed, there’s nothing at steak. Maybe bag tag is what i need? Something’s got to change, or else i'll never advance above advanced.
