Minnesota Golfer - Spring 2009 - 40

(punchshots)
THE PRESIDENT'S DESK
Today's Junior Golfer Is
Tomorrow's Avid Golfer
By Robert H. Tennant
A
s we get ready to start another season, the MGA
again has made a commitment to junior golf.
As a product of junior golf, and as a father
whose son has participated in a number of junior programs,
I am very proud of all the junior programs that exist
in Minnesota, from those at individual clubs, which are
the core, to the Junior PGA and MGA competitive events.
If you haven't had an opportunity to experience such a
program, you've missed out on seeing what a great job our
clubs and their PGA professionals do.
Not to be forgotten are the parent volunteers and the
high school coaches who make the state's high school
golf programs competitive and educational. Also, programs
like The First Tee and Evans Scholars use golf to
teach more than a game and give less fortunate children
opportunities in education and in life.
Often overlooked are the benefits junior programs
bring to parents and our golf clubs. Having a son who
has been involved in junior golf has given me an opportunity
to watch him grow as a player. More important,
however, it has given us the opportunity
to spend time doing something that we
both love. As my son, Nate, is about to
head to college, I look back at all of the
time that we have spent together on the
golf course-without a TV, without a
phone-competing not only against the
course but also with each other. Those
times will be greatly missed.
Golf, with a little creativity and patience,
is a family activity that can be enjoyed
by all. Families and clubs should
not forget the important way that golf can bring people
together to have fun, even if it's nothing more than a
youngster amused by playing in a bunker or watching
geese in a pond. You'll find that amusement will eventually
lead to more.
Today's enthusiastic junior golfer is tomorrow's avid
adult golfer. Research shows that golfers are very loyal to
the clubs at which they grew up and where they are comfortable
playing. Our golf clubs will benefit when they recognize
the importance of junior golfers and family play,
and create even more positive on-course experiences for
38
MINNESOTAGOLFER April/May 2009
Research shows that
golfers are very loyal to
the clubs at which they
grew up and where they
are comfortable playing.
kids and families. A commitment to junior golf today is
an investment in the game's future.
I can't think of a better way to spend time with your
family than on the golf course as a group. Every year, the
MGA, with support from many participating member
golf clubs, promotes the Bring Your Family to the Golf
Course program (July 6-12). And many golf courses promote
family play in other ways throughout the summer.
Call your local golf course now to introduce your family
to the game. Then make sure to enjoy that time doing
something together.
www.mngolf.org
PHOTO BY PAUL MARKERT
http://www.mngolf.org
Minnesota Golfer - Spring 2009

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