Get to Know Natalie and Alison
In our conversation with Natalie Vivaldi, PGA, Director of Instruction at Emerald Isle Golf Course, and Dr. Alison Curdt, PGA & LPGA Master Professional and licensed psychologist, we explored their profound insights into the mental aspects of golf, performance strategies, and their journey to becoming a champion golfer. Their leadership and mentorship continue to shape the future of golf, encouraging players to pursue excellence through resilience and discipline.
What are you thinking about when you step on the first tee before you hit your tee shot?
Vivaldi: “I’ve worked hard to rewire my mindset – from pressure and expectation to gratitude and presence. When I step on that first tee, I remind myself that I get to do this. Also, knowing that my tribe is out there fills me with confidence and joy.”
Curdt: I’m thinking about the target, visualizing the ideal shot in my mind, and keeping my nervous system calm but focusing on my breathe.”
How do you stay focused during your round?
Vivaldi: “Breathwork has helped me stay grounded and present, especially in pressure moments. Practicing gratitude has also been huge; instead of spiraling after a mistake, I try to remind myself how lucky I am to be doing this.”
Curdt: “For me its quite easy due to my mindfulness practice and education in psychology. I stay attuned to what I am doing in the moment, and keep an eye on the self-chatter.”
What is your advice to an amateur golfer about how to recover after a bad hole?
Vivaldi: “What I’ve learned is that the more you focus on the mistake, the more likely you are to carry it into the next shot. Learn from it if you can, then hit the reset button and move on. Golf’s hard—give yourself some grace out there.”
Curdt: “Quickly move your attention onto the next shot and what your intention is. There is no time to wallow in the past or ruminate on a mistake. You must keep your eyes forward on the next shot.”
What actions do you take when a round doesn’t go as planned?
Vivaldi: “First, I let myself feel it. I’ll usually take a walk, decompress a bit, and grab some food. Once I’ve cooled down, I’ll talk it out with the people I really trust who know my game and know how to keep things in perspective. Those conversations help me sort through what actually matters.”
Curdt: “If I underperformed in a particular area I’ll reflect on what I could do better and what’s in my control to learn from it. Then, I”ll formulate a game plan for mitigating it to avoid it happening again.”
How do you become a champion golfer?
Vivaldi: “By showing up when it’s hard. By doing the boring stuff when no one’s watching. By surrounding yourself with people you trust, learning from every failure, and remembering to train the mental game just as much as the physical. And most of all… by believing. I truly believe we can do anything we set our minds to. Being a champion isn’t just about talent or trophies…it’s about heart, grit, and who you choose to walk the journey with.”
Curdt: “Becoming a champion golfer requires a relentless commitment to continuous improvement physically, mentally, and emotionally. It’s about mastering fundamentals, building resilience under pressure, and having the discipline to prepare with intention every day. Champions don’t just play the game; they study it, learn from failure, and embrace the pursuit of excellence over time”
What’s in the bag?
Vivaldi
- Driver: Qi35 Core head with a Ventus Blue Velocore + 50g Stiff shaft
- 3-Wood: Qi35
- 4-Hybrid: Qi10
- Driving Iron: 4 P DHY (and I love it)
- Irons: P770 5–PW with MMT 75g Stiff shafts
- Wedges: MG4 50°, 54°, and 58°
- Putter: Spider Tour X
Curdt
- Driver: Callaway Elyte Driver
- 3‑Wood: Elyte 3 Wood
- 4‑Hybrid: Elyte 3 & 4 Hybrid
- Irons: Ai200 Irons 5‑PW
- Wedges: Opus Chrome 50/55/60 wedges
- Putter: Odyssey AI putter
Join us in cheering on Natalie Vivaldi and Alison Curdt as they compete in the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship later this week. We’re proud to celebrate their achievements and wish them the very best as they continue to make an impact on and off the course.