This is Part 2 from a coach survey I conducted, in which I asked college coaches to weigh in on the recruiting process. Every coach is different, but what follows represents some of the most consistent and eye-opening themes from their responses.

The question:

What are some examples you look for to help identify good golf IQ and players who can compete and get better at the next level?

The responses were fascinating — and honestly, every junior golfer and her parents should read this carefully.

Play Golf. A Lot of It.

One of the most practical pieces of advice came from a coach who said simply: “Players that play a lot of golf have more golf IQ than those that beat balls. My advice is to play as much as they can with all different people — adults, boys, anyone.”

There is no substitute for on-course experience. The range can improve your mechanics, but it cannot teach you how to think, compete, or problem-solve under pressure. The more varied your playing experience — different courses, different competitors, different conditions — the sharper your golf IQ will be when it counts.

The Details Coaches Are Quietly Noticing

Beyond the big picture themes, coaches shared a few specific things they watch for that many recruits never even think about:

Your pre-round warm-up. One coach specifically mentioned watching what a recruit’s warm-up session looks like before a tournament round. Are you going through a purposeful routine? Are any drills involved? Are you working on a specific feeling or just hitting balls to hit balls? Your warm-up reveals your preparation habits and your level of intentionality.

Knowledge of the rules. As one coach said, “Knowledge of the rules is so underrated.” It is a small thing that says a lot about how seriously you take the game.

Trajectory and shot shape. Can you hit a knockdown shot when the wind picks up? Can you work the ball in different directions when the hole demands it? Coaches notice whether a recruit has the skill and awareness to adapt her game to the situation.

Attitude and body language. Multiple coaches mentioned attitude on the course as a key indicator. How you carry yourself between shots — especially after bad ones — is always being observed.

The Takeaway

Golf IQ is not something you can fake — and college coaches are very good at spotting it. It shows up in how you handle adversity, how you talk about your game, how you manage a golf course, and how much genuine passion you bring to the process of getting better.

The good news is that every single thing on this list is something you can work on starting today. Play more golf. Reflect honestly on your rounds. Make smart decisions on the course. Show coaches the real you — not a highlight reel, but a young woman who loves the game, competes hard, and knows how to bounce back.

That is the player coaches are looking for.

— Brandi Jackson (brandi@brandijacksongolf.com)

RecruitPKB Consultant: Powered by: Brandi Jackson Golf

Helping Young Women Find Their College Golf Home