Junior Golf is Thriving in Detroit!

Photo courtesy of PGATSS Junior Golf

With the Rocket Classic teeing off this week, the world of golf will set its eyes on Detroit. Outside of the pros competing in this week’s tournament, there’s an emerging group that is getting more involved in the sport: junior golfers. 

Will McNaughton, the merchant of clubs at 82-store retail golf chain PGA TOUR Superstore, shares his insights about what’s driving the surge, how PGA TOUR Superstore helps develop the next generation of golfers and his personal experience as a father of two budding golfers: his boy and girl twins who are eight years old as of May. 

From Will McNaughton:

What’s driving the surge in junior golf participation?

Junior golf is booming. The National Golf Foundation reported juniors have experienced a 47% increase in play since 2019, as the younger generation discovers the game through technology, social media and new ways to play.

Technology has transformed golf into a more approachable, accessible and data-rich experience. Swing-analysis apps, launch monitors and simulators give young players instant feedback that once required a coach and a driving range. Kids can also track their progress, compete in virtual rounds and refine their swings in a gamified environment. Simulators also remove obstacles of traditional play, such as weather and time. With an indoor simulator, Detroit juniors can play a round of 18 on a world-famous course after school in winter without leaving the building. 

Social media is also a key driver of connecting juniors to golf. Younger players are watching and following content creators and personalities, along with their favorite pros, who make the game feel relatable, modern and fun through course vlogs, comedic trends, trick shots and challenges.

Finally, the sport has expanded beyond the traditional 18-hole course. Entertainment venues, like Top Golf, blend golf, music, food and camaraderie and create a low-pressure, social setting to learn and enjoy the game. 

How would you advise parents to get their kids interested in golf?

Getting your kids excited about the game of golf starts at home. My twins watched me chip in the backyard and play with the putting mat in the basement during the pandemic. Naturally, they wanted to join in on the fun with dad. While technique is important, reinforcing the fun aspect of golf is critical at the start as it helps kids love the game before they’re asked to refine it. 

What are the different ways families can engage with and enjoy the sport?

Today’s golf offers families more ways to connect than ever and meets them where they are. 

Watching golf on TV together or even attending this week’s Rocket Classic is a great first step to expose children to the game, atmosphere and the world’s most famous players. 

Once the kids feel ready to take the next step, miniature golf, driving ranges, putting greens and entertainment venues like Top Golf make those first swings fun and pressure-free. Simulation golf also continues to grow in popularity as families can play rain or shine, any time of year. Beyond sharpening performance, in-home golf simulators have transformed how families entertain, exercise, practice and socialize. They are designed with various features to increase inclusivity, including beginner-friendly difficulty levels, step-by-step tutorials and children’s games, such as skeet-ball and lily pad, which create fun for the whole family.

Lucky enough for Michigan residents, the state is also home to the most publicly accessible golf courses with more than 740 courses for families to discover (National Golf Foundation). For me, the real magic happens when my kids and I play on the green together as we can ride the golf cart, play music on speakers and experience the benefits of being in nature. 

How does PGA TOUR Superstore support young golfers in store?

For local families and young golfers looking to get involved with the game, PGA TOUR Superstore in Novi, Michigan is a great resource. 

PGA TOUR Superstore offers golf lessons for kids, juniors and teens that build fundamental skills, develop confidence and inspire a love for the game. Certified instructors work with players of all ages and skill levels, from first timers to avid players. Informed by Trackman technology, instructors can see and analyze the mechanics of a player’s swing to develop a lesson plan that creates gradual improvement and success. 

The store also carries U.S. Kids Golf products, which are color-coded and scale as kids grow, with new clubs introduced every year as they outgrow one set and need the next for their height range. Designed to support first-time golfers, these lightweight, properly sized products make learning the game easier and more enjoyable for kids. 

What is it like to share your passion for golf with your children?

Experiencing every part of the game together has been so special. Apart from the sport itself, it has allowed me to spend more quality time with my kids and bond over a common interest. Golf is one of the few sports you can play your whole life, and it’s wonderful to see there’s a pathway for getting the kids involved at an early age.