{"id":7848,"date":"2015-07-07T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2015-07-07T00:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/togethercounts.com\/summertime-the-perfect-time-to-learn-and-play-golf\/"},"modified":"2015-07-07T00:00:00","modified_gmt":"2015-07-07T00:00:00","slug":"summertime-the-perfect-time-to-learn-and-play-golf","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/togethercounts.com\/es\/summertime-the-perfect-time-to-learn-and-play-golf\/","title":{"rendered":"Summertime: The Perfect Time to Learn and Play Golf"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"GatchFamilyPhoto\"<\/a><\/p>\n

By Nikki Gatch, PGA, PGA Player Development Regional Manager, the PGA of America<\/p>\n

Now that summer is in full swing, people are taking vacations, having barbeques and, of course, enjoying outdoor activities such as golf! Summer is the perfect time to introduce your kids to golf. Whether your youngster is a beginner or a seasoned tournament player, PGA Professionals across the country offer programs, camps and events for boys and girls of all ages. As a partner of the Health Weight Commitment Foundation\u2019s Together Counts\u2122 initiative, the PGA of America is working to encourage families to get outside and try something new, as part of a healthy lifestyle.<\/p>\n

These days, kids have more opportunities than ever to learn and play golf in creative new ways \u2013 for instance, PGA Junior League Golf<\/a> offers boys and girls ages 13 and under a fun way to learn and play golf with friends. Kids love the concept of wearing team uniforms with jersey numbers, similar to other recreational youth sports. And, the program has some powerful supporters: Rory McIlroy and Michelle Wie both serve as Official Ambassadors for PGA Junior League Golf and lend their voices to encourage kids to get involved in a game they can continue to enjoy for years to come.<\/p>\n

But summer isn\u2019t just for the kids \u2013 it\u2019s also a great time of year for adults to learn the game or brush up on their skills. With more daylight available this time of year, most courses offer twilight specials, so you can head out for a quick round or a lesson after work. Grab some friends or co-workers and join a league at your local facility, or start one yourself! Your local PGA Professional is always available to help you get a league started.<\/p>\n

If your child is taking part in a camp or clinic, why not do the same for yourself? Many facilities offer adult player development programs, and you can visit PlayGolfAmerica.com<\/a> to find a program that best suits you and your schedule. And when you do, bring a friend! On the website you\u2019ll find programs like Get Golf Ready, an affordable series of group lessons.\u00a0There are also programs available to help you with a specific part of your game (short game, driving, and course management). You can also find fun events like family golf tournaments and \u201cNine and Dine\u201d themed socials.<\/p>\n

Golf offers you a chance to get outdoors, spend time alone or with friends, family or co-workers and ultimately enjoy a healthy activity for a lifetime. Whatever your summertime plans may be, make sure they include the game of golf! Enjoy the scenery, the weather, and of course, your company on the links.<\/p>\n

Check out adult and junior programs in your area by visiting PlayGolfAmerica.com<\/a> and searching by zip code. It\u2019s that easy!<\/p>\n

Nikki Gatch is a PGA Professional who serves as the PGA of America’s Player Development Regional Manager in Southern California, and has previously worked as Junior Golf Director, Foundation Director, and Assistant Executive Director for the Southern California PGA (SCPGA). Nikki was awarded the 2012 Golf Professional of the Year from the Women\u2019s Southern California Golf Association and was also inducted into the 2012 SCPGA Junior Golf Hall of Fame. In January 2015, Nikki was the first woman to be elected to the Board of Directors for the Southern California Golf Association. Nikki is a graduate and former Women\u2019s Golf team member of Oklahoma State University.<\/em><\/p>\n

For more family ideas over summer, check out these posts from Together Counts.<\/strong><\/p>\n