The Truth About Youth

Leading up to the nationwide “Take a Kid to the Course” program, my curiosity has been sparked about the interest in golf by today’s “youth” (I use this term loosely to talk about golfers aged 8-25). This week, Bushwood is participating in the “Take a Kid to the Course” program that runs across Canada, encouraging families and juniors to take up the sport.

Looking around our facility, and especially now that school is out, it is noticeable that the golf community is no longer limited to players fitting the stereotypical image: retired males. Rather, there are many tykes out on the course getting a feel for the game.

The shifting population of golfers to expand opportunities to the Gen Y and Millennial generations seeks the truth about how and why this change came about? Here are some of my thoughts:

·      New trends – in clothing and styles. As a woman, fashion is a fairly significant part of my life. As styles on the runway change, so do styles on the fairway. The trendy clothing the pros are wearing has shown kids that plaid is ‘rad’. Is this why they show interest in the sport?

·      Inspiration – from emerging pros like Rory Mcilroy and Ricky Fowler, to name a few. These names are familiar to both golfers and non-golfers. Their commitment to the sport and personability through the media gives the kids a role model to look up to in the sport. Is this why they show interest in the sport?

·      Social Media – like twitter, facebook, instagram. Just a few years ago, these words would’ve been foreign. But in both golf and social media, the times are changing. Social media outlets are great ways for kids to gain exposure and interest for the golf. Is this why they show interest in the sport?

·      Camps – like Bushwood’s summer camp for kids. The summer golf camps offered at Bushwood are a great way to introduce the sport to beginners, as well as provide learning opportunities to strengthen the game for novices. Is this why they show interest in the sport?

·      Family outings – as a kid, going to play a round on the executive course at Bushwood was just another Saturday outing. It was normal for my sister and I, but it also wasn’t really a choice. At the time, I wasn’t so appreciative, but now I’m grateful for the opportunity to develop my skill. So do kids join the sport young with their families, or do they join in their later years?

What do you guys think? What has sparked the interest in youth to take up golf? When did you start to play? Post a comment to share your thoughts!