The Collicutt Siding Golf Course will be holding its fourth annual Junior Golf Academy, starting May 28.
Lyndon King, the course’s general manager and head golf pro, was inspired to start the junior academy after working with a similar program at the Olympic View Golf Course in Victoria, B.C.
“We’re a family facility and getting the kids and their families involved is what we’re all about,” said King.
The program is open to kids ages four to 14 and serves as an introduction to the game, including lessons in the full swing, short and putting aspects of the game. The kids are divided into three groups and given 15-minute lessons on each aspect before rotating to a different station.
The program’s enrolment has increased since its inception to the point where King is expecting 200 youngsters to take part this year.
There is also an advanced program, which is held on Wednesday nights. Kids with more developed skills are invited to the advanced lessons, which are held on the golf course.
Besides teaching kids basic golf skills, King said the lessons are a way to instill a love for the game.
“It teaches them discipline and allows them to have fun,” he said. “It introduces them to such a big game that they can play for several years.”
Lessons run until August and the total cost is $40. Hot dogs and drinks are provided at the end of each lesson, and participants get a T-shirt for signing up. For more information, contact the Collicutt Siding Golf Course at 403-946-2343.
