Golf is experiencing significant growth in many parts of the country, including Northern Michigan. Places like Cheboygan and Indian River have seen a surge in interest and participation.
The Cheboygan County Junior Golf Academy’s First Tee Golf Program had a successful season, hosting numerous kids at the Cheboygan Golf & Country Club and Indian River Golf Club over an eight-week period. This program aimed to make golf enjoyable for young players while teaching them the fundamentals of the sport. Each week, a three-hour session was held to engage golfers aged 6-15.
“It’s been remarkably successful,” said Ed Kosanke, President of the Cheboygan County Junior Golf Academy. “We had over 100 kids participate in golf lessons in Cheboygan and Indian River. This level of interest is comparable to other popular sports like little league and softball. The program is low-key yet enjoyable for the kids.”
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Attendance averaged 88 kids per week in Cheboygan and 25 in Indian River, marking a 20% increase compared to the previous year.
The program, which originated in Indian River approximately seven years ago, enlisted local golf professionals to work with the participants. The Cheboygan sessions relied on 8-10 volunteers for each three-hour session, in addition to the three teaching golf pros provided by First Tee.
“The involvement of volunteers and the First Tee program have been crucial to our success,” Kosanke acknowledged. “Pat Linton and Olwyn Hancock have played significant roles in shaping the Cheboygan County Junior Golf Academy and the First Tee program, respectively.”
So, what makes the First Tee program such a big hit in these communities?
“One reason is that golf is an individual sport, and every child can excel at it regardless of their physical abilities,” Kosanke explained. “The program provides a low-key and enjoyable environment, which is evident in the low dropout rate. Parents appreciate the program, and we believe it’s an excellent introduction to the sport.”
First Tee, a national program with numerous sites in Northern Michigan, focuses on a child’s development and emphasizes self-confidence, communication skills, integrity, and sportsmanship. Thanks to donations from local businesses and individuals, First Tee is free for young golfers. Donations can be sent to Cheboygan Junior Golf Academy, PO Box 622, Cheboygan. Registration for the spring of 2024 is currently available on the First Tee website.
“Our ultimate goal is to encourage a significant percentage of these kids to continue playing golf throughout their lives,” Kosanke stated. “Golf is a lifelong sport that anyone can enjoy, unlike certain other sports that end after high school. Some kids might even become interested enough to join the golf team. While the golf team is not our primary objective, its success indicates the improvement of the kids each year.”
Contact sports editor Jared Greenleaf at Reference
Daniel Miller takes readers to the greens with his passion for golf. He offers coverage of major golf tournaments, player achievements, and insights into the sport’s rich history, making him a trusted source for golf enthusiasts.
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