The Lowcountry is a terrific place for children to get involved in golf. Golf is a lifetime sport and there is no better time than this summer to begin your child’s lifetime journey into the game.
Why golf, you say? It is a non-contact sport so your child probably won’t incur any injuries. Any child, large or small, male or female, can learn to play the game with proper instruction and desire.
Golf helps teach some of life’s great lessons, such as self-discipline, honesty, responsibility and playing by the rules.
You don’t have to be a member of a country club to find a good junior program. Make sure you find a program that meets your child’s needs. If your child is a beginner, the program needs to be fun, especially for a young child.
Two programs I highly recommend are the First Tee and the International Junior Golf Academy (IJGA).
The First Tee of the Lowcountry is more for the beginning golfer ages 7 through 18. The children will progress through the program starting at the Player level.
The $85 fee covers a six-week program. They have classes at their Hilton Head site as well as off campus sites at Eagles Pointe, Sanctuary Golf Club, and Lady’s Island Country Club. They also offer a summer camp, $150, Monday through Thursday, from 9 to 11:30 a.m. at the Hilton Head site.
Programs will begin on June 11. For more information, contact program director Nick Dunham at ndunham@thefirstteelowcountry.org or 843-686-2680.
IJGA has two types of camps during the summer, one for the recreational golfer who wants to have fun, play some golf and improve (Core Program); and another for the more serious player who wants to compete at a higher level (Elite Program).
The major difference in the two programs is that the Elite Program uses more technology to gain awareness and measure improvement with more intensity in the coaching and workout programs.
IJGA recently underwent a $2 million building renovation. Their new facility, at Old Carolina, includes indoor hitting bays, short game area, equipment such as Trackman, Bodi Trak, K-vest and SAM putting lab.
They are building an 18-hole, nine-green Challenge Course located on the grounds of Old Carolina Course. They have also made numerous renovations to their Pinecrest facility. For more information about camps and pricing, call 843-686-1500.
Dr. Jean Harris is an LPGA Master Professional and teaches at local courses. jean.golfdoctor.harris@gmail.com; www.golfdoctorjean.com
