The Art of Playing Smart Golf – Course Management Tips to Lower Your Score

Most golfers think the secret to better scores lies in perfecting their swing—but today's episode of Golf Party Live is here to tell you there's so much more to the game. Donna and Boo dive deep into the often-overlooked skill of course management—what it is, why it matters, and how it can drastically improve your game, no matter your skill level. Donna shares how, even as a Division I golfer at the University of Arizona, she didn't fully understand course strategy—something she's now passionate about teaching. Whether you're a beginner trying to break 100 or a seasoned player chasing consistency, this episode is full of tips to help you play smarter, not harder. What We Cover in This Episode: • What course management really means • Why it's just as important as your swing, fitness, and mindset • The myth of course management and how it holds players back • How smart decisions can reduce frustration and lower your scores • The value of on-course lessons (not just range time) • Understanding patterns in your game—miss tendencies, club choices, and risk vs reward • How a coach or instructor can help track your game beyond the scorecard Key Strategies Shared: • Pre-Round Planning: How to mentally and strategically prepare before you even tee off • Tee Box Tactics: Where to aim, and why the middle of the fairway isn't always your best bet • Fairway Decisions: Club selection, lay-ups, and knowing when to play aggressive vs smart • Green Management: Reading angles, using the whole green, and leaving yourself makeable putts • The Mental Game: Confidence, calm decision-making, and committing to your plan Special Moment: Donna shares some personal news—she's officially accepted the Head Coach position for the Higley High School Girls Golf Team! She's excited to bring course management, mindset, and fundamentals to the next generation of lady golfers. Takeaway: Golf isn't just about hitting great shots—it's about making great decisions. The sooner you embrace the mental and strategic side of the game, the faster your scores (and your enjoyment) will improve.