In an effort to make golf more accessible and affordable for youth, Arizona has introduced a new initiative that allows kids to play 18 holes for just $5 at golf courses across the state. This youth golf program, aimed at revitalizing junior golf participation, targets boys and girls aged 17 and under and is available at 35 participating courses.
Funded through partnerships with the state’s golf organizations and administered by the Junior Golf Association of Arizona (JGAA), this initiative is designed to eliminate cost as a barrier to entry into the sport. Importantly, the program is open and flexible—no tournament participation or ongoing membership is required.
How It Works
- Available to youth aged 17 and under
- Flat $5 fee for 18 holes (cart not included)
- Must register for a Youth on Course card (free in Arizona)
- Accessible at 35 diverse golf courses—from municipal to resort-level
Tyler Kost, Executive Director of the JGAA, emphasized the importance of simply getting youth onto the course: “They just have to register for a Youth on Course card, which is free in Arizona. It’s purely to get kids playing.”
Potential Long-Term Benefits
Beyond affordability, the program offers young golfers exposure to various course conditions and styles, helping to shift perceptions of golf as a sport reserved for the elite. Advocates think this can help foster lifelong participation.
Although there are concerns about limited tee times at more popular courses, the early indicators are positive. Since the launch, there’s been a notable increase in Youth on Course registrations, and course operators are encouraged by the influx of younger players.
A Nationwide Trend?
This Arizona initiative aligns with broader efforts to rejuvenate golf participation post-pandemic. With golf seeing a resurgence—particularly among young and recreational players—the timing may be ideal for a sustainable change in the sport’s demographics.
- Expanding access with subsidized rounds
- Encouraging youth engagement early
- Providing community courses a new source of foot traffic
Whether this program becomes a blueprint for other states remains to be seen. But for now, young Arizonans have new opportunities to enjoy the game affordably.
For more information and a list of participating golf courses, visit the official websites: jgaa.org or youthoncourse.org.
Original source: Yahoo News
