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Bill Schaaf
PGA Professional
Tip 12: Wedge Play
When you're within 50 yards of the green, your best approach is a wedge shot with a high arc and backspin to stop the ball with no roll. To do this, line up with the ball centered in your stance and your weight equally distributed on both feet. Your shoulder, hips, knees and feet are square to the intended line of flight. On your backswing, your left shoulder and right side should rotate as one, with the plane inside the line of flight. Start your downswing with your left arm. The leading edge of the wedge goes down under the ball so the ball will slide up the face of the club. Your left arm starts down with your hands leading the shaft and clubhead. Do not allow your left wrist to break. Once the clubhead comes in contact with the ball, your weight moves down the line of flight. Your backswing will determine the distance. Practice this, and soon you'll be hitting shots to the green that spin back to the hole or stop on a dime.
Bill Schaaf is a PGA Golf Professional at Stony Hill Long Drive, Bethel, CT. To improve your game, visit a Connecticut Section PGA Golf Professional.