The teenage years are a great time to take up golf, or to take it more seriously. Teenagers learn quickly, have the strength and coordination to hit the ball well, and can join junior sections, school teams and competitions. Golf also offers a social life, a sport for life and skills that help well beyond the course. Here's how teenagers can get started and stay involved.
Getting started
- Lessons: group junior clinics or individual lessons. Read choosing a junior golf coach.
- The driving range and short courses for practice. Read first time at the driving range and par-3 and short courses.
- Junior memberships: many clubs offer cheap junior or student memberships. Read golf club membership guide.
Equipment
- Clubs that fit: teenagers grow quickly, so check length and weight regularly. Read the junior golf equipment guide.
- Used or half sets are cost-effective. Read buying golf clubs on a budget.
- Graduating to adult clubs usually happens in the mid-teens, depending on height and strength.
Getting a handicap and competing
- Get a handicap through a club. Read the World Handicap System explained.
- Junior competitions: club, regional and national events. Read junior golf competitions.
- School and college golf: read high school golf and college golf scholarships.
Improving
- Practise with purpose. Read golf practice games.
- Fitness: read junior golf fitness.
- Set goals. Read golf goal setting.
Balancing golf and life
- School comes first; golf can fit around studies.
- Other sports help athletic development.
- Rest and sleep are important for growth and recovery.
- Avoid burnout: take breaks and keep golf enjoyable.
Keeping it fun
- Play with friends.
- Try different formats: scrambles, match play and team events. Read golf formats and games explained.
- Golf entertainment venues for social nights. Read golf entertainment venues.
Opportunities in golf
Golf can lead to scholarships, part-time jobs at clubs, caddying and careers in the golf industry. Read careers in the golf industry.
Frequently asked questions
Is it too late to start golf as a teenager?
Not at all. Many excellent golfers started as teenagers.
What clubs should a teenager use?
Clubs fitted to their height and strength; junior or adult depending on size.
How can teenagers get a handicap?
Through a golf club's junior section or membership.
Can teenagers compete in golf?
Yes, in club, regional, school and national junior competitions.
The bottom line
Golf is a great sport for teenagers: social, challenging and full of opportunities. Start with lessons and a junior membership, get clubs that fit, join competitions when ready, and keep a healthy balance with school and other activities. For younger children, read golf for young children.