W
hen you hear “ADM,” what comes to mind? Do you think pool noodles, hula hoops, cones, and kids? If you’re one of the more than 10,000 ADM-certified coaches, you hopefully think beyond kids and pool noodles to a framework for creating lifelong golfers.
ADM certifications skyrocketed during the pandemic, thanks largely to the availability of online training through PGA Coach. However, a gap exists between the certification and implementation of these principles that the PGA of America is actively trying to address.
The American Development Model (ADM) is an innovative framework developed by the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee to foster positive sport experiences for participants of all ages and skill levels. The primary mission of ADM in golf is to create an environment that promotes long-term engagement, reduces burnout and drives business growth through a well-structured, age-appropriate curriculum. Golf’s ADM is not just for juniors; it benefits everyone involved, from recreational players to elite athletes.
ADM’s science-based structure focuses on age-appropriate activities that help golfers acquire fundamental skills, develop a love for the game and achieve their full potential. This focus on long-term athlete development has led to five key principles:
1. Developmentally appropriate activities that emphasize motor and foundational skill development at every stage.
2. Enhanced entry to create opportunities for all.
3. Multi-sport participation to develop a well-rounded foundation and transferable skills.
4. Fun, engaging, challenging activities every step of the way.
5. Expert coaching, which is imperative to development at every stage.
These principles translate into seven stages of development for golfers, helping create a comprehensive pathway that balances skill development with competition.
Prior to 2023, ADM training and certification was only offered through a well-designed series of online videos and modules. Although convenient, this did not always make for quick and easy implementation. While activity and lesson plans aligned with each stage were readily available, something was missing: connection.
Thanks to some innovative thinking from Rocky Mountain Section Executive Director Vaughn Jenkins, PGA, the Section partnered with the PGA of America and its team of Player Engagement Consultants to pilot “ADM Live” (pictured) to deliver the content in person.
ADM Live provides a high-level overview of the ADM principles and stages, introduces coaches to the resources and tools available within PGA Coach, and provides opportunities to engage with Subject Matter Experts and peers currently applying ADM to their coaching strategy. Each session includes breakouts designed to put learning into practice through simple challenges aligned with each stage of development. Coaches are trained to focus on effective communication, practice planning, and comprehensive programming that ensures they can guide players appropriately at each stage of development.
As a member of the National Player Development Junior Committee, PGA of America Member Zach Abels helped organize the first pilot of ADM Live and has been a strong advocate for the in-person, hands-on experience. In his words, “In-person ADM training provided a great opportunity to share ideas with other professionals in the area. It really felt like best practices but in an interactive setting. The value of being with other professionals sharing ideas is a game-changer.”
ADM training is available to all PGA of America Members and Associates through PGA Coach. Should you engage in online ADM training? Absolutely! Everyone in the golf industry has something to learn from ADM. Should you attend an ADM Live event if the opportunity becomes available near you? Without a doubt! ADM Live sessions take learning to the next level by bringing the principles to life, providing coaches with the tools and knowledge to foster a new generation of golfers who are skilled, passionate, and engaged in the sport. Together, we can ensure a vibrant future for golf in the United States.
Scheduling ADM Live is a partnership between our Sections and our Player Engagement Consultants. ADM Live sessions are planned in the North Florida, Kentucky, Aloha, Nebraska, New England, Tennessee, Northern Ohio, Indiana, Gateway, and Southern California PGA Sections throughout the fall and spring.