Best Kids Golf Lessons & Junior Golf Leagues in West Michigan 2024

Local Junior Golf Programs & Kids Golf Lessons

Michigan has over 650 golf courses! And considering the weather prevents us from playing year round in Michigan, having that many golf courses is pretty significant.

So how do you get your kid involved in golf?

Sign them up for junior golf lessons at area courses, aimed at kids 18 and under.

These include golf programs, kids golf lessons, and golf camps and even junior golf leagues. They’re some of the popular lessons & sports for kids in West Michigan.

We’ve compiled a list of the best junior golf programs in Grand Rapids and have the lowdown on how golf for kids works.

All About Junior Golf Lessons for Kids

At What Age Do Kids Golf Lessons Start?

Kids can start learning golf as young as age four, but most kids are a little older when starting official junior golf programs.

The Junior Golf Pee Wee Program at Maple Hill Golf is a 3-day program designed for kids ages 7 and under.

Blythefield Country Club’s junior golf program welcomes all ages, with kids 6 and under needing a parent present for instruction.

How Much Does it Cost to Learn to Golf?

Junior Golf programs can vary in length, duration, and cost. Junior Golf fees usually include the cost of instruction and range balls.

Tournament fees are typically in addition to the Junior Golf program fees.

Instruction fees and program fees can range from $5 for a scholarship program through the First Tee up, to several hundred dollars.

Golf equipment can also vary greatly in price. Currently, a set of junior clubs (with bag) from Maple Hill Golf ranges from $150-$350.

What Equipment is Needed to Play Golf?

Junior golfers will need their own golf clubs and golf bag. Some pee wee programs (golf lessons for kids) provide equipment for the little kids in their programs. Check with your facility to see if this is an option.

If you do decide to purchase golf clubs, go to a reputable place that can help you find the right length club. Also, know that golf clubs are right-handed or left-handed. Be sure to get the clubs that will match your player’s handedness.

Golf shoes are not a requirement but can be helpful as your child advances in the sport. Metal cleats are no longer in use. If you do get cleated golf shoes, be sure to get the type with plastic cleats on the bottom. Beginners wearing athletic shoes will do just fine.

Golf is a sport that is played in all weather conditions unless it is hazardous to be outside. (For example, thunderstorms will result in a play delay.) Sunglasses, hats, and rain gear are commonly used by golfers. You’ll also want to send along a water bottle and snacks.

Golf gloves are another item that will help your golfers as they progress in the game. When your player advances to shooting on the golf course, they will also need a ball marker and golf tees.

You can find affordable clubs at stores and golf courses around Grand Rapids.

• Golf Galaxy – Centerpointe Mall | Retailer offering golf equipment & apparel, plus lessons, fitting & repair services.
• Play it Again Sports – 3560 Alpine Ave, Grand Rapids | Selling new and used quality sports equipment.
• Maple Hill Golf – 5555 Ivanrest Ave SW, Grandville & 5490 S. Dangl Road, Fruitport | Huge retailer of all things golf.

What are Junior Golf Leagues Like?

Most local Junior Golf programs are held at a single golf course. If your player progresses to a higher level of play, he or she will travel between local golf courses for league play.

If your child earns a spot on a school sports team, they will travel between cities to play other school teams, just like a basketball or football team would travel.

Players looking for a summer travel golf team or junior golf league play would be served well by a visit to the PGA Jr League website.

In these cases, players have a home golf course, practice together, and travel to other courses for competition. Registration for many of these teams close in May or early June.

First Tee Golf Lessons for Kids

The First Tee of West Michigan is a program designed to make golf accessible to kids of any background. First Tee provides more than just golf lessons for kids, though.

First Tee teaches character development using the game of golf. Values like honesty and responsibility are taught through the game, helping kids to learn how to navigate the highs and lows of the game and ultimately, life.

First Tee programs in Grand Rapids are held at five golf course locations. Scholarships are available for anyone who may be interested.

For more information about the First Tee West Michigan, call 616-208-1177 or Email [email protected].

Directory: Kids Golf Lessons in Grand Rapids

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