James Sieckmann - A Masterclass From the #1 Short Game Coach (Flashback Friday)

Nov 14, 2025

James Sieckmann, the #1 short-game coach and author, shares insights from his rich coaching career with PGA and LPGA Tour players. He reveals powerful lessons learned from golf legend Seve Ballesteros and emphasizes the importance of self-image in building confidence. Sieckmann offers practical tips for wedge play, discusses effective putting routines, and highlights the significance of visualizing shots. He also stresses tailored practice habits, including handling different lies and simulating course conditions, to enhance performance.

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ANECDOTE

Caddying Sparked Deep Study

James caddied for his brother at the 1981 U.S. Open and other majors, giving him close-up access to top players like Seve Ballesteros.
That access let him film Seve and study world-class short-game shots for months before teaching.

INSIGHT

Study Greats To Build A Flexible Method

Studying videos of top players revealed common patterns that formed the basis of James's method.
He turned observed tendencies into teachable principles rather than forcing one style on everyone.

INSIGHT

Common Teaching Myths Debunked

Common short-game clichés (keep head still, weight forward) are often wrong for elite players.
Top players load their trail side in the backswing and make room for a forward-and-up release.

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James Sieckmann is widely regarded as the #1 short game coach in golf, having worked with countless PGA and LPGA Tour players to refine their skills around the greens. Known as the "Short Game Guru," he has revolutionized how players approach wedges and putting, combining cutting-edge techniques with a deep understanding of the mental game.

James is also the author of two acclaimed books, Your Short Game Solution and Your Putting Solution, which offer step-by-step strategies to help golfers of all skill levels improve their scoring game.

When you listen to this episode, you will learn:

What he learned from Seve Ballesteros.
How the self-image is the secret to confidence.
His experience caddying at the US Open for his brother.
Putting drills to never waste time again and 10x confidence.
Everything you need to know about playing the right wedges.
Why you need a pre-shot putting and green reading routine.
Lessons from Golf Digest 2019 top rated short game coach.

And a lot more. Make sure to check out James' books, follow him on Instagram, check out his website, and join his online program, Short Game Mastery.

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