Jeremy Avery is in the running for a golf scholarship. Every match matters as he progresses toward the end of the season and the all-important Amateur All-State High School Championship. After receiving only college rejections, Jeremy knows that winning the All-State final, and the scholarship that goes with it is his only remaining ticket into college. 

 

Jeremy’s best friend, Tommy, has a keen awareness that Jeremy has what it takes to win the golf scholarship and makes it his mission to push Jeremy past his doubts and insecurities. Circumstances arise that force Jeremy to take his younger autistic brother Ethan to his practice rounds and matches. Jeremy is upset with his parents and Ethan for this huge disruption in his world.

 

As Jeremy tries to focus during practice rounds, Ethan causes countless distractions for Jeremy and other golfers. Tommy, however, notices that Ethan brings something extraordinary to the table, discovering that Ethan has an uncanny ability to “read the elements” on a golf course, such as wind velocity, and how the ball will roll on the green. These "gifts" give Ethan the ability to advise Jeremy on how to execute each shot.  But Jeremy doesn’t want to trust or believe Ethan’s abilities because, in his eyes, Ethan is just a distraction and nuisance on the course. Tommy, on the other hand, becomes convinced that Jeremy is discounting what could be his most effective weapon. 

​

Jeremy’s relationship with Tommy becomes strained as the end of the season approaches and with his confidence shot, he continues to struggle with his short game. Tommy begs Jeremy to see Ethan’s abilities and just as he begins to embrace them, tragedy strikes as someone very close to him dies suddenly. 

​

Jeremy’s faith is tested. During the memorial service, Jeremy is reminded that life is a short game and must be played out intentionally.  He learns that his relationship with Ethan is far more important than his goals or achievements.  Jeremy turns to his younger brother and asks him to be his caddy. Finally embracing Ethan’s savant-like gifts, they become an unstoppable team. 

​

Jeremy faces his final challenge at the Amateur All-State High School Championship. His main rival, Bruce, discovers that Ethan is a major factor in Jeremy’s success on the course. With deviant intentions, Bruce complains to the officials regarding Ethan's sometimes disruptive behavior as Jeremy’s caddy and demands his removal. At his greatest moment of need, Jeremy is forced to make a difficult decision. With a scholarship and his newfound relationship with Ethan on the line, Jeremy knows he needs to play this right.  He knows it’s all about “The Short Game.”