School golf teams give young golfers the chance to represent their school, play team golf and compete regularly. In the USA, high school golf is a major part of junior golf, with seasons, conference matches and state championships. In other countries, schools may run golf clubs, enter schools competitions or partner with local golf clubs. Here's how school golf works and how to get involved.
How school golf works
Teams and matches
- Team size: often five or six players, with the best four or five scores counting.
- Formats: usually stroke play over nine or 18 holes; some events use match play or Stableford.
- Seasons: in the USA, boys' and girls' seasons are often in spring or autumn, depending on the state.
- Championships: conference, regional and state championships.
Outside the USA
Many schools run golf through:
- School golf clubs and coaching at local courses.
- Schools competitions organised by golf federations.
- Partnerships with nearby golf clubs and ranges.
Tryouts
- Qualifying rounds: players often play one or more rounds; the lowest scores make the team.
- Standards: vary from beginner-friendly teams to very competitive programmes.
- Preparation: play regularly, practise the short game and learn the rules. Read golf rules every golfer should know.
Practice
- Team practices at a local course or range.
- Course management and short game. Read golf course management and golf practice games.
- Fitness. Read junior golf fitness.
Balancing school and golf
- Time management: matches can involve travel and missed lessons.
- Communicate with teachers.
- Rest and recovery.
School golf and college
School results, alongside junior tournaments, help college coaches assess players, although many coaches place more weight on competitive junior events. Read college golf scholarships and junior golf competitions.
For schools without a team
- Ask your school or a local club about starting one.
- Find volunteers and a local professional to help.
- Contact your golf federation for schools programmes.
Frequently asked questions
How does high school golf scoring work?
Usually stroke play, with the best four or five scores from a team of five or six counting.
Do I need to be good to make a school golf team?
It depends on the school. Some teams welcome beginners; others are very competitive.
Does school golf help with college recruitment?
It helps, but junior tournament results usually matter more.
What if my school doesn't have a golf team?
Ask about starting one, or play junior golf through a local club.
The bottom line
School golf offers team competition, coaching and friendships. Prepare for tryouts, balance golf with studies, and combine school golf with junior tournaments if you have college ambitions. For more, read golf for teenagers.