Mike Small – The Blueprint for Creating a College Golf Powerhouse
Welcome back to the Living in the Zone Podcast Blog! This week, we have the privilege of hosting Illinois Men’s Head Golf Coach Mike Small, a luminary in collegiate golf. With an astonishing record of achievements, Mike has not only guided the Illinois Fighting Illini to national prominence but also embodies the principles of mental toughness and peak performance.
The Winning Formula: Mike Small’s Journey
Mike Small’s illustrious career is marked by a remarkable list of accolades: 13-time Big 10 Coach of the Year, nine NCAA Match Play appearances, two NCAA individual champions, nine Big 10 individual champions, and 37 All-American awards. Under his leadership, the Illini have also claimed 13 Big 10 team titles and six NCAA Regional titles. Beyond coaching, Mike has achieved notable success as a player, including three victories at the PGA Professional National Championship and participation in 13 major championships.
The Power of Collaboration: Mike Small and Jim Fannin
A significant part of Mike’s success story, in his professional and personal endeavors is his long-term collaboration with our host, Jim Fannin. For over a decade, Jim has worked with Mike and the Illinois Men’s Golf team, instilling the principles of the S.C.O.R.E.® Success System. This system—founded on Self-discipline, Concentration, Optimism, Relaxation, and Enjoyment—has been instrumental in shaping the mindset and performance of the Illinois golfers.
In this episode, Mike shares how the S.C.O.R.E.® System has influenced his coaching approach and the mental fortitude of his players. “The S.C.O.R.E.® System has been a game-changer for our team,” Mike says. “It’s not just about the physical skills; it’s about having the right mindset to perform under pressure.”
The S.C.O.R.E.® Success System in Action
Jim Fannin, known as America’s ZoneCoach®, has been a guiding force for many top athletes and executives. His S.C.O.R.E.® System, developed over 50 years of coaching, provides a proven blueprint for achieving peak performance. The system emphasizes five key markers for thinking like a champion: Self-discipline, Concentration, Optimism, Relaxation, and Enjoyment.
Mike Small has seamlessly integrated these principles into his coaching philosophy. He emphasizes the importance of self-discipline in maintaining focus during practice and competition. “Self-discipline is the foundation,” Mike explains. “It’s about doing the right things consistently, even when no one is watching.” Illinois has prided themselves on this over the last 10 + years and the accolades and success speak to the power of this statement.
Concentration is another critical aspect of the S.C.O.R.E.® System. Mike trains his players to develop intense focus, both on and off the course. “Golf is a mental game,” he says. “Staying present and concentrating on each shot is crucial for success.” The Men’s golf team has embodied the word, “Next!” This is Illinois’ battle cry. Next shot. Next putt. Next hole. They utilize this saying to stay in the present tense by adapting a forward focus, next mentality.
Visualization and Positive Self-awareness
Visualization is a powerful tool in the S.C.O.R.E.® arsenal. Mike encourages his players to mentally rehearse their shots and envision success. This technique not only boosts confidence but also helps players stay calm under pressure. “Seeing yourself succeed before it happens is key,” Mike asserts. “It prepares your mind and body to execute flawlessly.”
Positive self-awareness, another cornerstone of the S.C.O.R.E.® System, is about recognizing and leveraging one’s strengths. Mike works with his players to build a strong sense of self-belief and optimism. “Believing in yourself and your abilities is half the battle,” he notes. “Optimism fuels perseverance and resilience.”
The Impact of Relaxation and Enjoyment
Relaxation and enjoyment are often overlooked in high-stakes sports, but they are vital for sustained performance. Mike incorporates relaxation techniques into his training regimen to help players manage stress and anxiety. “Golf can be a pressure cooker,” he admits. “Learning to relax and stay composed is essential.”
Enjoyment, the final element of the S.C.O.R.E.® System, ensures that players maintain their passion and love for the game. “When you enjoy what you do, it doesn’t feel like work,” Mike says. “It’s about finding joy in the journey and the process.”
Insights for Aspiring Coaches and Athletes
For aspiring coaches and athletes, Mike Small’s journey offers valuable insights. He highlights the importance of continuous learning and adaptation. “The game is always evolving,” he observes. “You have to stay ahead by constantly improving and innovating.”
Mike also stresses the significance of mentorship and collaboration. “Working with Jim Fannin has been a transformative experience,” he reveals. “Having a mentor who can guide you and your team through mental challenges is invaluable.”
The Future of Illinois Men’s Golf
Looking ahead, Mike Small is optimistic about the future of Illinois Men’s Golf. With a strong foundation built on the S.C.O.R.E.® principles, the team is poised for continued success. “We have a talented group of players who are committed to excellence,” he says. “The future is bright, and I’m excited for what lies ahead.”
Tune In and Transform Your Game
This episode of Living in the Zone with Mike Small is a must-listen for anyone passionate about golf and mental performance. Whether you’re a player, coach, or fan, Mike’s insights and experiences offer a wealth of knowledge and inspiration.
As Jim Fannin often says, “Living in the Zone is about more than just sports; it’s about achieving peak performance in all areas of life.” Tune in to this episode to learn how you can apply the S.C.O.R.E.® principles to elevate your game and live in the Zone.
Stay connected with the Living in the Zone Podcast for more episodes featuring top performers from various fields. Together, we can all strive to achieve simplicity, balance, and abundance in our lives.