Especially for the Juniors

             Youngsters get their starts in golf in many different ways.  Some begin as caddies; others go to driving ranges and putting courses; still others take lessons from golf professionals at home or attend summer golf schools, such as our Golf Academies in California and Vermont; and many simply start playing at local courses.

            Of course, professional guidance at the start is the best route to follow.  By learning the fundamentals correctly at the start, the young man or woman has a much better chance of developing into a good player in later years.  I know, though, that many simply can’t afford professional lessons and the equipment.

            That’s why I have always urged boys to caddie if they have the opportunity.  If they are diligent and observant, they can learn a lot about the game—how to play, the rules, course etiquette—from the experienced players for whom they work.  They can even learn from the duffers’ mistakes.  Usually, they get a chance to play at an off-time once a week.  Besides, they can earn the money with which they can buy their own equipment and pay for lessons.  Not to be overlooked, either, is that chance to get college education assistance through the many fine caddie scholarship programs.

            About the equipment.  Miniature sets are fin for the very young.  Whets their appetite for the game.  But when the youngster gets into the teens and shows real interest, he should have a full set as soon as possible.  It doesn’t have to be a new set; trade-ins at a golf shop or a parent’s old set will be fine.

            I talked before about practice.  I stress this as much as anything when youngsters ask me for advice.  A beginner will rarely become an accomplished golfer without constant practice.  If a youngster can develop the love of practice that I did as a boy, he is almost vertain to become a pretty good player.  The fundamentals only become second nature through constant repetition on the practice range, but be sure that they are the correct techniques.

            Finally, learn the Rules of Golf, the etiquettes of the game and play by them.