AboutMichael Hoffman Expertise I have been a golf professional since 1981. I was elected into the PGA in 1987. I attained my master clubfitter certificate in 1992. I have given thousands of lessons over the years and I can answer questions about instruction, golf in general, rules, equipment, practice techniques etc.
I have served served on the board of directors of the Southern Texas PGA for twelve years and was the President from 2002-2003.
Experience I started as as assistant golf professional in 1981. I have been a head golf professional at several clubs as well as the general manager at two clubs. I am master clubfitter and have given many individual as well as group lessons over the years. I was the President of the Southern Texas PGA 4 years ago. I have been a rules official for the tour qualifying school as well as other events. I have won the Merchandiser of the year award in our section twice.
Question I'm a med. to high handicapper and my problem is with my irons. I can drive straight for 315-335yds on average. but when it comes to my irons i tend to either top the ball or I take a huge divot that can sometimes travel farther than the ball. I have been working on just taking a more relaxed swing with my irons and that has helped in topping the ball but getting good solid contact is rare in my iron play. any suggestions.
Answer Matt,
It sounds like the club is reaching the bottom of it's arc before it reaches the ball. This is perfect for the driver but not so for the irons. You want the club to be moving downward or descending on the iron shots. This will provide good contact and backspin.
Make sure your weight has shifted to your front foot on the downswing. This will allow you to hit down into the ball at impact. If your weight is on the back foot, you'll have a tendency to scoop at the ball at impact.
