Junior Golf Matters

In the last 10-15 years, golf has become far more fashionable for young people, more accessible and great fun. Junior golf is now an intrinsic part of golf the world over. Take a stroll around almost any golf course and you will find youngsters playing, practising and enjoying their love of golf from dawn till dusk.

Getting started in golf

Most golf clubs/driving ranges run golf clinics/coaching sessions for juniors of all ages at very low prices, usually a nominal sum and some even provide starter sessions free of charge.

Because of the increase in the number of golf clubs and other golf enterprises, owners now realise the importance of attracting young people into the sport and many work hard to promote golf in a number of ways. For example, my local golf range send their coaches along to local schools to talk to pupils about taking up golf and offer discounted prices for beginners.

An important part of PGA (Professional Golf Association) training for Assistant Teaching Professionals involves them in teaching young people of all ages how to play. You will find that most weekends there is something going on at your local golf club or golf range for children. Just go in and ask for details, you will find them most helpful.

If you are in any doubt about the popularity of golf for young people, just look at the number of young golfers from around the world that are beginning to dominate the leader boards of golf tournaments at every level of the game.

Junior golf club membership

Golf is clearly an individual sport, but it is also a team sport, especially at junior level. Golf clubs usually have their own golf teams and play competitively against other golf clubs, which is great for forming personal friendships and fostering teamwork.

When enquiring about golf club membership, be aware that young golfers are categorised as juniors up until the age of eighteen, so always enquire about the various types of membership available. You will find most golf clubs have reduced fees for juniors and also for young adults after they leave school, university or college. It is appreciated that it can be sometime before they can afford to pay joining fees and/or full membership prices.

At junior club level, boys and girls often compete in the same competitions to keep everyone involved. This is possible because of the golf handicap system, which makes it fair for everyone. However, once junior golfers start to show real promise and perhaps play at regional/national level, you will find tournaments are not mixed.

Professional golf coaching

A long time before a junior golfer has reached a high level they are usually working regularly with a professional golf coach. Choose their coach carefully by making sure it is someone they trust and genuinely wants to help them. It might be the start of a long-term relationship.

There is no better way to learn about playing golf than at a proven golf school with qualified professional golf coaches. The key is to find the right place go with good facilities and the right coach for your child.

Just ask anyone who plays golf in your neighborhood, almost certainly they will know the best places to go.

If you would like to find out more about how to get started in golf, visit your local golf club or driving range.