The college golf recruiting process can feel like a mystery — for both parents and players. In this episode, Coach Todd Oehrlein pulls back the curtain on how college programs actually evaluate prospective student-athletes, what separates elite recruits from the rest, and how parents can best support their junior golfers through the emotional rollercoaster of commitments, calls, and expectations.
first DM exchanges to analyzing phone calls and understanding academic fit. He explains why patience, passion, and emotional control are just as important as swing mechanics — and how the right mindset can make all the difference when a scholarship offer is on the line.
For golf parents navigating the recruiting maze, this is a must-listen episode that will help you guide your child with confidence, clarity, and perspective.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
- The recruitment process starts with real conversations, not just stats
- Academic fit is a major factor for both schools and athletes
- Verbal commitments come before written ones — patience matters
- Coaches value relentlessness, passion, and self-awareness over perfection
- Parents should balance support with realistic expectations
- Debriefing after tournaments builds resilience and growth
- Emotional regulation is a key differentiator in performance
⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Mike Thomas: The Golf Parent’s Perspective
02:54 The Journey of a Golf Parent: Plans and Intentions
05:53 Recognizing Talent: Moments of Realization
08:46 The Balance of Coaching and Parenting
11:55 Key Personality Traits of Successful Junior Golfers
15:01 Navigating Modern Parenting in Junior Golf
17:39 The Role of Structure and Passion in Development
20:59 Understanding Parent-Child Dynamics in Sports
23:57 Maintaining a Healthy Parent-Coach Relationship
26:36 The Role of Parents in Golf Instruction
27:44 Overrated and Underrated Aspects of Golf Instruction
31:21 Mental Game and Self-Talk in Golf
33:40 Physical Preparation and Training for Golf
36:33 A Week in the Life of a Professional Golfer
42:32 Staying Fit and Flexible as a Golfer
45:35 Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations and Excitement
48:42 Advice for Golf Parents
💥 Sponsor Shoutout:
This episode is sponsored by Caddy Daddy, trusted by golfers and parents who want durable, innovative gear that protects their equipment and travels as hard as they play.
🔗 Connect with Todd Oehrlein:
🌐 Email: / TSO@athletics.wisc.edu
🔗 Connect with Caddy Daddy:
🌐 Website: https://caddydaddygolf.com/
📸 Instagram: @caddydaddygolf
🔗 Connect with The Golf Parent:
🌐 Website: https://www.thegolfparent.com/
📸 Instagram: / thegolfparent
📺 YouTube: / @thegolfparent
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