Saturday, July 02, 2011

Play Golf America!

Suzy Whaley’s Family and Junior Golf Tips



Suzy Whaley, a PGA and LPGA Professional, is one of the nation’s most acclaimed golf instructors and public speakers. She was elected to The PGA of America Board of Directors to represent the Connecticut, New England and Northeastern New York PGA Sections – the first woman to do so from her District. She is also a member of the PGA of America's National Instruction and National Diversity committees.  In 2002, Whaley was the first woman in 58 years to qualify and participate in a PGA Tour event (the 2003 Greater Hartford Open), following the legendary Babe Zaharias.  In 2005, she became the first woman to qualify for the PGA Professional National Championship, finishing tied for 64th. Her many teaching accolades include being chosen among the top teachers in Connecticut by Golf Digest, a Top Five female teacher designation by Golf Digest, nominated for GOLF Magazine's top 100-teacher list, is an LPGA Teacher of the Year and a two- time PGA Teacher of the Year honoree in the Connecticut PGA Section.



Below are some various categories with tips from Whaley on reasons to play golf as a family and how to get your family and children started in golf.



Reasons to Play Golf as a Family and Why Golf is a Great Sport for Children:

  • It provides uninterrupted family time outdoors and is also a great way to spend quality time with your family (and friends!).
  • It is great exercise in a beautiful setting. Studies show that walking the golf course reduces levels of bad cholesterol, burns calories, prevents heart disease, and helps oxygenate the body and improve posture.
  • Golf helps children learn how to focus and teaches great life lessons - respect, integrity, sportsmanship, camaraderie and problem solving.  It is also a great business tool for networking for when they get older.
  • Golf is a game for a lifetime and can enjoyed by the young and old.  How many other sports can a parent, child and grandparent participate in together?
  • Golf is a non-contact sport and does not require athletic prowess
  • Many golf facilities offer discounted junior rates, making it an affordable family activity.
  • It’s fun!



Ways to Get your Family Started in Golf:

  • Visit PlayGolfAmerica.com to find family programs in your area.
  • Contact your local PGA of America Section at PGA.com for a list PGA Professionals in your area.
  • Contact your local Parks and Recreation Departments for family programs.
  • Visit your local public golf facility and gather information on its programs.
  • Enroll your children in the “Golf in Schools” program if they are offered in your area.



How to Get your Kids Started in Golf:

  • Encourage your children to hit balls with you at the driving range.
  • Visit PlayGolfAmerica.com for children and family programs in your area.
  • Contact your local PGA of America Section at PGA.com for a list PGA Professionals in your area.
  • Contact your local Parks and Recreation Departments for children and family programs.
  • Make golf a family activity.
  • Watch or attend a golf tournament together.



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3 comments:

kebgolfer said...

I would agree. Golf is not only a Universal Sport, but it is definitely a great family sport. I started my Daughter at 10 and she loves the game. I can remember my Daughter telling me about tips that she had seen on THE GOLF CHANNEL. We both watch it every week!

Ron Celano said...

With golf participation down going on five years now what better way to increase popularity than to get the whole family involved. Thanks for the tips on how to get family involved in golf.

Author of "Triangulate Your Golf Swing."

Tee Time at Ole Miss said...

We love to play golf with our 5 year old. He enjoys it tremendously we're always impressed with his improvements each time we play. It's our favorite way to spend time together!