sicing/inconsistancy

Question
Hello, my name is Dakota.

I have been having a lot of problems lately with inconsistancy.  If the ball doesn't go straight it slices to the right.  More times than not I will slice the ball.  Especially when I get to my 6 iron.  I know that I am swinging from the outside in because my divot points where I want the ball to go and the ball starts there, but it tails off quite a bit during flight and it kicks the the right when it hits the ground.  

My only question is:  Do you know any drills/do you have any tips on how I can get out of the habit of coming outside in?


Thank you for your time.

Answer
Dakota,

First of all let's take this one step at a time. You say that the divot is pointing to where you would like the ball to go. I assume this is the target. Typically, if you are swinging outside to in the divot will face left of the target for a right handed golfer. Take video of your swing if that's available to you to see if the club is coming from the outside.

Let's now explore the probable reason the the ball is slicing. The clubface is most likely coming into the hitting area in an open position. This will impart sidespin on the ball causing it to curve and then bounce right when it hits the ground. The reason for this is a grip that is too weak in position on the club. Make sure that you grip the club in your fingers with the left hand. You should be able to see at least two to two and a half knuckles of your left hand. Make sure your right hand mirrors your left so that that palms are parallel to one another. make sure that you do not have a death grip on the club. A lighter grip will enable your hands/wrists to release on the downswing, squaring up the clubface.

Two other thoughts. Get the paperback book written by Ben Hogan "Five Lessons" and read chapter one a few times. The other suggestion is to see a PGA Professional and take a lesson. This will help tremendously.

Good luck and let me know if this helps.

Michael Hoffman
PGA Professional