Golf coach makes Charlie Woods claim in front of Tiger Woods: ‘If he could just relax…’

Charlie Woods’ High School Coach Hopes for Less Pressure, But Notes Tiger’s Influence Runs Deep

Charlie Woods, the teenage son of golf legend Tiger Woods, has made quite an impression on the high school golf circuit while representing The Benjamin School in Florida. Although the young golfer is already displaying considerable skill on the green, his coach, Toby Harbeck, recently shared his hope that Charlie would feel less pressure when competing. In a candid interview with The Palm Beach Post, Harbeck admitted he wishes Charlie “could just relax and play,” though he acknowledges that the drive to excel runs deep in the Woods family. “He’s got a lot of Dad in him,” Harbeck remarked.

Harbeck’s comments came after Charlie, just 15 years old, helped his team, the Benjamin Buccaneers, to a strong finish in the Class 1A Region 4 tournament held at Miami Shores Country Club. Despite facing windy conditions on the challenging course, Charlie’s performance, alongside his teammates, was enough to secure second place. This finish clinched the Buccaneers a coveted spot in next week’s state championships. Now, the team is eyeing a repeat of last year’s success, hoping to win their second straight state title and a fifth overall.

The Buccaneers initially faced a slow start in the regional tournament, but they ultimately stormed back to secure their second-place finish. With a combined score of 3-under par, they trailed only Fort Lauderdale’s Pine Crest, which won the event with an impressive team score of 7-under. Charlie personally delivered a solid individual round, carding an even-par performance. While it wasn’t quite enough to clinch the top spot for his team, it showed maturity and focus in a challenging competition.

Throughout the tournament, Charlie’s every move was closely watched by his father, Tiger Woods, who followed along in a golf cart. The 48-year-old Woods, a 15-time major champion and one of the most celebrated golfers in the sport’s history, wore a black sleeve on his leg as he monitored his son’s progress. Just last month, Tiger confirmed he had undergone a sixth back surgery, adding to the challenges he has faced due to injuries throughout his career.

During part of the round, Tiger was joined by his ex-wife and Charlie’s mother, Elin Nordegren. The two were spotted sharing a brief conversation as they cheered for their son, and they showed support in different ways. At one point, after Charlie made a well-placed birdie on the 12th hole, Tiger offered a quick word of encouragement. Otherwise, he let Charlie maintain his focus and rhythm on the course.

As Charlie finished his round, he received a heartfelt celebratory hug from his mother, Elin, after he made par on the 18th hole. The show of support from both parents underscored the close family bond and the pride they share in his achievements. Despite the significant legacy he carries, Charlie appears determined to carve his own path in the game, displaying a combination of raw talent and a competitive spirit inherited from his father.

As the Buccaneers prepare for next week’s state championships, all eyes will be on Charlie and his team. For now, however, Coach Harbeck hopes his young protégé can continue to enjoy the game and navigate the pressures that come with being the son of one of golf’s greatest icons.