I have heard it said since the early 80’s that for golf to grow, women and kids must be attracted to the game.  And yet just a few months ago, I heard a golf course architect ask what could be done.  Well for starters set the ego aside and make holes playable for the beginners and/or short hitters.  It is easily done with tee placement.  Additionally, new courses if not designed as 3 – sixes (4 par 4’s, and one each par 3 & 5) then how about building three extra short holes for beginners?  This is not new thinking.

Here are some other ideas, maybe being used today but not universally.

1. Free golf for Jr.’s during off peak hours.
2. Reduced cart cost if kids are brought along. (My kids first introduction to the game was hopping in and out of the cart to look at turtles or hit the ball once in a while – all just fun stuff)
3. Do you have kids golf sets available?
4. How about a putting course, complete with little bunkers and water holes?
5. Are parent/child events only found on private courses?
6. Are kids’ successes on the course acknowledged?
7. How about an adopt-a-new-golfer program pairing those who love the game with one who might learn to do the same through mentoring, teaching, and encouraging.  This doesn’t need to be a lifetime commitment.
8. Do you have a “bring a kid to the course” program or even just a poster?

Yes, most all of these come at a cost but I look at it as investment in the future.  Your future.

Please feel free to send in your photos or ideas.