Coaches are frequently asked why children should play golf.  The answer is simple to those who teach every day and see the impact the sport makes on today’s youth.  Golf is a sport for all; young, old, male, female, competitive, recreational, those with adaptive needs and those who simply want to enjoy the outdoors with their peers.  It is a sport we can play for a lifetime and one in which we can learn many life lessons from.  It teaches social skills, athletic movements, and character traits that may not be as prevalent in other sports.  Children are exposed to playing with others whom they may not know, forcing them to properly introduce themselves, deal with conflict, be honest, play with those of different abilities and so much more.  Golf is extremely relatable to daily life, which is why it is so important for our youth to have the opportunity to experience it in some way, shape or form.  It is a sport in which families can participate together, regardless of ability.  It truly is a one of a kind when it comes to life skills and being a game of a lifetime.  If your child has not yet been exposed to the sport, summer camps are a great way to make the introduction!  Please CLICK HERE to find a location near you!  

Santiago Mari was born in Mayaguez, Puerto Rico, turned pro at the age of 19 and became a Class A Member of the PGA of America in 2004.  He has spent the last 18 years acquiring an unmatched experience in all aspects of the golf game.  Santiago attended both the University of Puerto Rico (R.U.M.) and the University of Central Florida where he completed a degree in Mechanical Engineering with a Minor in Materials of Engineering, along with a Master’s Degree in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Applied Sciences in Lübeck Germany.  Santiago has been fortunate to work with the world's best players as an Assistant Golf Professional at Lake Nona Golf and CC, where he started to work with top professional golfers from all major golf tours worldwide on their golf equipment.  His experience and expertise kept growing through the years and ended up joining the David Leadbetter Golf Academy in 2003 as Director of Club fitting and Golf Equipment.  He has had the opportunity to learn from the best instructors in golf as well as the best players in the world.  PGA Junior Golf Camps is very excited to welcome Santiago and the Leadbetter team on as partners!  The Leadbetter Academy offers PGA Junior Golf Camp programming at two of their locations, Estero and Miami.  Please click on the links above for more information!

PGA Junior Golf Camps is proud to announce our recent partnership with Scott Robbins Golf.  Scott and his team are primarily based at Stewart Peninsula Golf Course in The Colony, TX, however are hosting a one of kind Competitive Junior Golf Camp in Cortez, CO.  This camp is meant for those junior golfers who are currently playing competitively (typically in 18 to 54-hole tournament events, taking private lessons and/or consistently shooting less than 90lf.  The program component of this rare opportunity includes, 28 hours of expert coaching on the practice facility at Conquistador Golf Course, followed up by a two-day, 36-hole tournament.  During the training sessions, much of the focus will be on helping participants with their mindsets on the golf course, as well as understanding how to practice properly, prepare for tournaments, as well as further understand the mechanics of their swing.  Players will also receive video analysis of their swing (both full swing and pitching/chipping), along with a detailed evaluation of their motion.  Scott and staff truly believe in helping all players be as comfortable and confident as possible while on the course and would love for your competitive golfer to join them!  For more information please CLICK HERE.

Parents often ask, “When is my child ready for an advanced/specialty camp?”  Although the answer differs from camper to camper, understanding how to assess your child’s readiness for a higher level of instruction in golf will help ensure success in their journey.  Parents might ask themselves:

My child is playing on the high school golf team and scoring in the 90’s.  She is very passionate about improving, performing better and wants to move up in her team ranking.  She currently has a private coach and takes lessons weekly.  Outside of the golf season, she plays 18 holes regularly.   

This young golfer is a perfect candidate for an advanced or specialty camp.  These programs focus on specific aspects of the game (i.e., long irons, wedge play, putting and course management) and will help her achieve her goal of lowering her scores. 

My child is a standout on his high school golf team and competes in local junior golf tournaments, often placing well.  He has an established golf coach who works on specific aspects of his game, sometimes using technology or training aids.  He designs his strength workouts with golf in mind.  My child regularly scores in the high 80’s or low 90’s on 18 holes. 

This young golfer would not only benefit from advanced and specialty camps but might also consider a competitive edge day camp.

If we consider the stages of youth development, both athletically and cognitively, we as the adults need to remember the advanced/specialty programs should not be taken until a child is ready, both physically and mentally.  

How do we determine if a young player is ready from a physical and mental standpoint?  

Just because your child “loves” golf, has made the high school team and may go on the course with mom or dad to either hit balls or play 9 holes, does not necessarily mean your child is ready for advanced golf programs.  The purpose of a half day or even full day, weeklong camp is to teach basic golf skills, which is a crucial first step and should not be skipped.  It is our goal to set our youth golfers up for success.  We want them to love the game and understand it takes time.  If you child is enjoying the game, finding success in learning basic skills and exhibiting a desire to play or even train regularly, you are on your way!  It is so very important to remember rushing the process is not the answer; take it step by step and enjoy the journey.  For more information on basic program progression, please take a look at the PGA Junior Golf Camps Programs on our website or talk to your local PGA Professional. For a full list of Advanced Camps please CLICK HERE.