Coaching Collin Morikawa: From Age 8 to Major Champion Through Holistic Development

Key Points

• Started Coaching at Age 8: Rick began working with Colin when he was just eight years old, focusing early on making the game fun with games and on-course learning to nurture love for golf.
• Gradual Skill and Physical Development: As Colin grew, training evolved—from playful development at ages 8–12 to more structured skill-building and fitness by ages 14–16, including strength work for his core and better posture to reduce sliding and tilting in the swing.
• Importance of Equipment Fit: Equipment changes were key during growth spurts. Rick emphasized adjusting club specs (length, weight) to match Colin’s physical maturation.
• Mental Skills and Emotional Control: Colin showed elite mental strength early. He had rare focus, emotional control, and resilience, which Rick tested by putting him in stressful and nearly unwinnable practice scenarios to build toughness.
• Growth Mindset and Accountability: After shooting 84 in a national event at 16, Colin didn’t make excuses—he immediately wanted to improve his ball flight in the wind, showing a mature, growth-oriented mindset uncommon for juniors.
• Selective Competition Schedule: Rather than playing tournaments every weekend, Colin carefully selected events that supported long-term development, not just short-term results—a valuable message for parents and juniors.
• College Success at Cal Berkeley: Colin excelled both on and off the course, becoming a 3-time All-American and #1 amateur in the world, while graduating from Berkeley’s prestigious business school—highlighting his ability to manage time, pressure, and goals independently.
• Smooth Pro Transition: He made 22 straight cuts and won on tour quickly. Rick attributes this to Colin’s belief in himself, preparation routines, and refusal to be intimidated by big names or pressure situations.
• First Major and Handling Pressure: At the 2020 PGA Championship, Colin stayed composed, hit a legendary drive on 16 to set up an eagle, and won. His ability to stay calm and execute under pressure was critical.
• Managing Expectations and Consistency: As success grew, Rick helped Colin navigate rising expectations by focusing on controllable elements—preparation, attitude, and steady routines—rather than trying to always win.
• Holistic Development Message: Rick encourages all juniors to develop across four pillars—technical skill, fitness, equipment, and mental game (focus, confidence, emotional control)—to unlock full potential.