Ball Position and my divot

[mmoan2]

All

As with many things in golf, it seems that many different “experts” disagree on what the proper ball position in one’s stance should be for iron play.

My question: It seems like most experts, however, indicate that putting the ball forward-of-center (not for bump-and-run, or chip shots – just standard iron shots) is the way to go. Also, as you go from short to long irons, the ball position goes even more forward. I find, though, that when I just take nice easy practice swings without a ball, and even when I hit a ball, my divots generally begin 2-3 inches behind the so-called ideal ball position – i.e. maybe at center for a PW, and about 2-3 inches beyond that for a 4-iron. Also, on mishits, it is usually a fat shot, so the divot will be behind. Is there a possible swing flaw I might have that is contributing to this less-than-“ideal” divot position, or am I worrying about nothing and should just accept that slightly behind ideal is what works for me? I just don’t want to continue to groove bad habits, as I’m practicing a lot now and want to practice the right things.

Thanks!

[Paulinfl]

I fixed this same problem not too long ago. You need to get your hands or the club handle in front of the ball at impact. Essentially that changes the fulcrum or pivot point of the club to over the ideal wanted low point. I was able to feel this or over come this by having my hands follow a straight line to the ball from the top of the backswing. Imagine a straight line from your hands at the top, to the ball or an aimpoint a little on the target side of the ball. On the down swing, make your hands follow this path which will create lag and the club face will lag behind until your hands get to the ball. Make sure your wrists are flexible and cock or uncock freely by momentum and centrifugal force. Don't try and control the wrists. Let it happen. HTH

[dak4n6]

I put a PW about 3" behind center, 7i dead center, and 3i 3" ahead. Also, keep your weight forward (60/40 left foot) ala Stack n Tilt.

[mmoan2]

Thanks for the info.

[Teambobbright]

Jack Nicklaus never grounded his club, so you might want to try not grounding your club and you will have a more up right stance.  Swing the club and let the ball get in the way of it.  If you want a divot in front of the ball, like everyone does, focus your eyes on the center of the ball on the down swing and somehow we get a divot in front.  The ball position is usually around the left pocket, take a practice swing and see where the divot is and address the shot accordingly.