This could be the best thing that has happened to golf since hickory clubs were replaced by metal shafts: $5 rounds of golf for anyone 7-18 years of age.
Called Youth on Course and started in northern California in 2006 it could be coming to Alberta as early as next year.
“We’re all about growing the game and making golf affordable for kids. For many kids wanting to take up golf the game is just too expensive,” Adam Heieck, executive director of Youth on Course said in a presentation to members of Alberta Golf.
From just one course, Youth on Course has expanded exponentially. So far this year Youth on Course has 41,000 members and 915 participating courses in 26 States.
Last year alone 115,000 rounds were played by Youth on Course members, who pay $15-$20 a year to join.
Here’s how it works:
The rounds are subsidized through fund-raising private contributions from individuals, foundations and corporations all administered through Youth on Course.
As just one example, the Northern California Golf Association annually contributes $700,000.
“Let’s say a course is willing to charge $12 for their junior rate,” said Heieck. “To make the fee $5 Youth on Course makes up the $7 difference.
“If 100 rounds are played every month we send the course a cheque for $700.
