Finding activities the whole family can enjoy isn’t always easy. Parents are often looking for opportunities that encourage kids to be active, spend time outdoors and build confidence, all without stretching the family budget. Golf can check each of those boxes thanks to the Virginia State Golf Association (VSGA) and its partnership with Youth on Course.
Founded in 1904, the VSGA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and serving the game of golf throughout the Commonwealth. While the VSGA conducts state championships and provides official Handicap Index® services for more than 85,000 members, its mission extends far beyond competition.
The association works to grow the game by creating opportunities for golfers of every age and ability, whether it’s through military initiatives, adaptive golf or junior golf.
Play for Just $5
One of the VSGA’s most impactful efforts is its partnership with Youth on Course, a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides young people with life-changing opportunities through golf. Since becoming Virginia’s administrator of the program in 2020, the VSGA has helped expand affordable access to golf for juniors across the Commonwealth while supporting Youth on Course’s mission to ensure cost is never a barrier to playing the game.
That mission takes center stage each July during Youth on Course Month, a nationwide celebration that encourages more families to discover everything the program has to offer.
For just $25 per year, Virginia juniors ages 6-18 can become Youth on Course members and play golf for $5 or less at participating courses throughout Virginia and more than 2,000 courses across the United States, Canada and Australia. Beyond affordable golf, Youth on Course also provides access to scholarships, internships, career development opportunities and leadership experiences that help young people succeed both on and off the course.
The program is even more accessible for many Virginia families. Juniors who are members of First Tee chapters in Virginia receive a complimentary Youth on Course membership, and eligible military dependents throughout the Commonwealth can also receive a free membership, helping even more young golfers enjoy affordable access to the game.
Entering Competitive Golf
For families with children who catch the golf bug, the VSGA’s Junior Golf Circuit (JGC) offers an exciting next step.
Designed for players of all skill levels, the Junior Golf Circuit hosts tournaments across Virginia in 9-, 18- and 36-hole formats, giving juniors the chance to compete in a fun, welcoming environment while continuing to develop their skills. Whether a child is entering their very first tournament or already thinking about playing high school or college golf, the JGC provides age-appropriate competition focused on sportsmanship, confidence and personal growth.
An annual Junior Golf Circuit membership includes tournament eligibility, a complimentary Youth on Course membership, an official Handicap Index® (for golfers who don’t already have one), exclusive member benefits and opportunities to connect with other young golfers from across Virginia.
Help Us Grow the Game
Perhaps most importantly, golf is one of the few sports that truly brings generations together. Children, parents and grandparents can all enjoy a round together, creating memories while learning valuable lessons about honesty, perseverance and respect. Programs like Youth on Course and the Junior Golf Circuit help ensure those opportunities are available to more Virginia families than ever before.
What many people don’t realize is that when a junior golfer pays just $5 to play through Youth on Course, the participating golf course still receives its full junior greens fee. The VSGA covers the difference, removing the financial barrier for families while ensuring golf courses can continue welcoming young players.
That’s why this Youth on Course Month, we’re asking for support to help more juniors experience the game, visit participating courses and discover the lifelong benefits of golf. Every dollar donated helps keep rounds affordable and expands opportunities for the next generation of Virginia golfers.
Whether your child wants to try golf for the first time, compete in tournaments or simply enjoy an affordable round with friends and family, there’s never been a better time to get involved.
To learn more about the Virginia State Golf Association, Youth on Course, the Junior Golf Circuit or other junior golf opportunities throughout the Commonwealth, visit www.vsga.org.
If you’d like to help grow the game, consider supporting Youth on Course. Your support will help ensure that cost is never a barrier for a child who wants to discover the game of golf.
