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Pennsylvania Recovery Center Next Shot — Golf and mindfulness

Next Shot

Golf and mindfulness programs for people in recovery

Hear It From Dave

Program Coordinator David Berg explains what Next Shot is and who it's for.

One Core, Two Paths

Golf offers what recovery needs: structure, time outdoors, and a healthy community. Both programs teach the same two things.

Mindfulness

  • Pre-shot routine: breathe, pick a target, commit, swing.
  • “Next shot” acceptance: a bad shot doesn't get to hijack the next.
  • Grounding: the grip, the sound of contact, the walk between shots.

Integrity

  • Call it on yourself. Own your penalties.
  • Keep an honest score. Every stroke counts.
  • Respect others: pace of play, quiet during a swing.

Learn the game

Foundations

For residents new to golf, or returning after years away. Your mentor walks every step with you.

  • 8–10 weeks, one session per week
  • Driving range and par-3 course sessions
  • One-on-one pairing with a volunteer mentor
  • One fundamental a week: grip, stance, putting, etiquette
  • Low-pressure scramble and best-ball play
  • Clubs, shoes, and transportation provided
  • Alcohol-exposure plan built into every session

No experience needed. Just show up. We'll handle the rest.

Bring your game

On Course

For residents who already play. The same mindfulness and integrity, tested on the real course.

  • 8–10 weeks, a weekly round of 9 or 18 holes
  • Stroke play and match play, self-scored
  • A mental-game focus each week: frustration, pressure, patience
  • Mentors play alongside you as partners, not instructors
  • Season ends with a house cup tournament
  • Foundations graduates welcome to step up

Your scorecard is your word. Every stroke counts, and the only person who can sign it is you.

A Typical Session

  1. 1

    Check-in · 10 min

    One question, one circle. Arrive as you are.

  2. 2

    Mindful warm-up · 10 min

    Stretching and breath work.

  3. 3

    Skill or challenge focus · 30–45 min

    A fundamental (Foundations) or a mental-game challenge (On Course).

  4. 4

    Play · 60–75 min

    Range or par-3 scramble with your mentor (Foundations) or a self-scored round (On Course).

  5. 5

    Closing reflection · 10–15 min

    What came up? What would you do differently?

Get Involved

Volunteer mentors

Walk a round with a resident. No golf expertise required, just a willingness to show up and be present.

Course partners

Donated range time, off-peak rates, or a PGA professional willing to teach a clinic.

Donate equipment

Gently used clubs, bags, and shoes help remove every cost barrier.

Sponsor a season

Your gift covers range fees, loaner gear, and transportation for the group.

“The most important shot in golf is the next one.”

Contact us

David Berg

Program Coordinator

davidb@parecoverycenter.com

Central admissions: (610) 233-4342