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Sports on TV for Thursday, July 24

Youth Golf Boom: Kids Taking Over the Fairways, One Swing at a Time

In the world of sports, few transformations have been as striking as the recent explosion in youth golf. What was once seen as a leisurely pastime for retirees and business executives has morphed into a high-stakes arena dominated by pint-sized prodigies wielding drivers longer than their own arms. Across the United States, golf courses are buzzing with the energy of young players, their enthusiasm reshaping the landscape of the game. From municipal links to exclusive country clubs, the influx of junior golfers is creating both excitement and challenges, as families invest time, money, and dreams into nurturing the next generation of stars.

The surge began in earnest during the COVID-19 pandemic, when traditional team sports like soccer and baseball were sidelined by restrictions. Golf, with its open-air setting and emphasis on individual play, emerged as a safe haven. Parents discovered it as an activity that could keep kids active without the close contact of other sports. According to industry reports, participation among juniors under 18 has skyrocketed by more than 20% in recent years, with millions of kids now teeing off regularly. This isn't just a fleeting trend; it's a cultural shift that's turning golf into a youth-dominated pursuit, much like Little League baseball or youth soccer leagues of decades past.

Take, for instance, the scene at public courses in suburban areas. On a typical weekend morning, what used to be prime tee times for adult foursomes are now claimed by groups of tweens and teens, their parents hovering nearby with pushcarts and encouragement. In places like Southern California, where golf's popularity has always been strong, courses are reporting record numbers of junior memberships and lesson sign-ups. One municipal course manager described the change: "We used to have empty slots mid-morning. Now, it's kids everywhere—practicing chips, putting contests, you name it. It's great for the future of the game, but it's squeezing out some of our regulars."

This boom is fueled by a combination of factors. Technology plays a big role; apps and simulators allow kids to practice swings in their basements, while social media showcases young talents like those competing in high-profile junior tournaments. The influence of professional golf can't be understated either. Stars like Scottie Scheffler and Nelly Korda inspire youngsters, but it's the accessibility of figures from the LIV Golf series or viral YouTube golfers that really draws them in. Programs like the First Tee, a nonprofit that introduces golf to underserved youth, have expanded dramatically, offering not just skills but life lessons in perseverance and etiquette.

But the real stories are in the families making this happen. Consider the case of 12-year-old Mia Ramirez from Texas, a fictional composite based on real young golfers highlighted in similar narratives. Mia started playing at age 6, dragged to the course by her father, a weekend hacker. Now, she's competing in regional tournaments, traveling hundreds of miles for events, and dreaming of a college scholarship. Her routine includes early-morning practices before school, video analysis of her swing, and even strength training to build the power needed for longer drives. "It's not just a hobby," her mother says. "It's her passion, and we're all in." This level of commitment is common; parents are shelling out thousands on equipment, coaching, and travel. A basic set of junior clubs can cost $200, but for competitive kids, custom-fitted gear runs into the four figures. Add in tournament fees, which can exceed $500 per event, and the financial burden becomes clear.

The impact extends beyond the family budget. Golf courses are adapting—or struggling—to keep up. In Florida, a hotbed for youth golf, some facilities have introduced junior-only hours or leagues to manage the crowds. Private clubs, traditionally bastions of adult exclusivity, are now courting young members with family packages and youth academies. However, this has led to tensions. Veteran golfers grumble about slower play caused by inexperienced kids, while course maintenance crews deal with the wear and tear from increased foot traffic—sneaker soles pounding the turf where cleats once dominated. One club pro noted, "The kids are enthusiastic, but they divot the greens like it's their job. We're reseeding more than ever."

On the positive side, this youth movement is injecting vitality into a sport that has long battled perceptions of elitism and stagnation. Golf's governing bodies, like the USGA, are thrilled, seeing it as a way to diversify the player base. More girls are participating than ever, inspired by the LPGA's rising stars, and outreach programs are bringing in kids from urban areas who might never have considered the game. In cities like Chicago and New York, pop-up driving ranges and mini-golf hybrids are making entry points more accessible, breaking down barriers of cost and location.

Yet, there are concerns about burnout and pressure. With travel teams mimicking the intensity of AAU basketball, some kids are playing year-round, leading to overuse injuries like stress fractures or elbow strains. Sports psychologists warn that the push for early specialization can sap the fun out of the game. "Golf should be about enjoyment first," one expert advises. "Not every kid needs to aim for the PGA Tour." Parents are navigating this carefully, balancing ambition with well-being. For many, the social aspects—making friends on the course, learning sportsmanship—are the true wins.

Looking ahead, the youth golf boom shows no signs of slowing. Major tournaments like the Junior PGA Championship are drawing record entries, and college recruiters are scouting talent at younger ages. Equipment manufacturers are responding with kid-specific lines, from colorful balls to adjustable clubs. Even pop culture is catching on, with movies and shows portraying young golfers as heroes.

In essence, youth golf is redefining the sport's identity. It's no longer just a game for the golden years; it's a vibrant, competitive world where kids are the driving force. As one young player put it, "Golf is my escape. Out here, it's just me, the ball, and the hole." For the courses packed with eager juniors, the future looks bright—and busy.

This transformation isn't without its growing pains. In regions like the Midwest, where golf seasons are shorter due to weather, the demand for indoor facilities has exploded. Simulators equipped with high-tech sensors allow kids to play virtual rounds even in winter, honing their skills without braving the cold. Companies like Topgolf, with their entertainment-focused venues, are bridging the gap between casual fun and serious training, attracting families who might otherwise shy away from traditional courses.

Education is another angle. Schools are incorporating golf into physical education curricula, recognizing its benefits for hand-eye coordination and mental focus. Some high schools now have varsity golf teams that rival football in popularity, with scholarships dangling as incentives. For underrepresented groups, initiatives like those from the PGA of America are providing free clinics and mentorship, aiming to make golf inclusive.

Critics, however, point to the environmental footprint. Golf courses require vast amounts of water and maintenance, and with more players comes more strain on resources. Youth programs are countering this by emphasizing sustainability, teaching kids about eco-friendly practices like minimal pesticide use.

Economically, the boom is a boon. Pro shops are selling out of junior apparel, from tiny visors to performance polos. Instructors, once reliant on adult clients, now fill their schedules with kids' lessons, charging $50 to $100 per hour. Tournaments generate revenue for host cities, with families booking hotels and dining out.

Personal anecdotes abound. A 10-year-old boy in Arizona qualified for a national event after practicing relentlessly in his backyard net. His story mirrors many: starting with a plastic club, progressing to real irons, and now competing against peers from across the country. The camaraderie at these events is palpable—kids swapping tips, cheering each other on, forging bonds that transcend the scorecard.

Challenges persist, though. Accessibility remains an issue in rural or low-income areas, where courses are scarce. Virtual reality and online coaching are helping, but nothing replaces real turf time. Gender dynamics are evolving too; while boys still outnumber girls, the gap is closing, with role models like Rose Zhang showing what's possible.

Ultimately, the youth golf surge is a testament to the sport's enduring appeal. It's adaptable, challenging, and rewarding, drawing in a new generation that's passionate and prepared. As courses adapt and communities embrace it, golf's future is in capable, if small, hands. Whether these kids become pros or lifelong amateurs, their enthusiasm is ensuring the game's vitality for years to come. (Word count: 1,248)

Read the Full Associated Press Article at:
[ https://apnews.com/article/youth-sports-golf-9966cd3c955388012a5dbb82e9f1c5f8 ]