Paul Azinger Gathers His Thoughts for Ryder Cup

Paul Azinger has many thoughts on his mind.

Who will be the automatic selections for next month's Ryder Cup Team, and who are the best to include as his four picks?

Once these have been finalized, he must turn his mind to how to pair his players for the opening two days of foursomes and fourballs. Each requires different skills, attitudes, strategies, and personalities.

Foremost in his mind must be a plan to ensure The Ryder Cup is regained by his team.

He will not be short on advice, so he will have to decide what to accept and what to ignore.

The caption for the photo may well read: "That's not a bad idea, son."

History shows the Cup has been won and lost on the last day's singles. Each of the 12 matches brings the best out of the contestants.

Match play demands a completely different approach to golf than medal play.

Confidence plays a vital role from the first tee; a straight drive down the fairway is important. Winning the hole can often decide the outcome of the match.

Knowing when to attack and when to defend is essential. Attacking the course comes into play only, when four or five holes up!

The United States in former years has had a galaxy of professionals who have contributed immensely to their team's successes.

Arnold Palmer, Billy Casper, Sam Snead, Lee Trevino, Tom Kite, Gene Littler, Raymond Floyd, Jack Nicklaus, Gene Sarazen and Lanny Watkins have won 50 singles matches and have been ably abetted by Gene Littler, Fred Couples, Hale Irwin, Justin Leonard, and Paul Azinger, himself.

The techniques they employed may well be of help to the 2008 team. Photographs and records, located in the US Team room, could help Paul achieve his ambition.

Is it an idea he should consider worth adopting?