Ireland lives and breathes golf — from misty early morning tee times on links courses to major championship moments on the world stage. But the real future of the sport doesn’t rest solely with the pros. It begins with the next generation.
Junior golf in Ireland is thriving. And there’s never been a better time for kids to pick up a club, join a club, and fall in love with the game.
Why Junior Golf Matters
Junior golf isn’t just about producing champions. It’s about building confidence, developing life skills, and creating community. For young people, golf offers:
- Low-impact physical activity that builds coordination
- Mental focus and patience in a fast-paced world
- Friendships formed through club events and team play
- A strong foundation of respect, discipline, and sportsmanship
There’s also something undeniably special about seeing a young player drain their first long putt or watch their drive take off clean. The joy is real — and contagious.
How Junior Golf Is Growing in Ireland
Over the past decade, clubs across the country have taken major steps to support junior development. Backed by Golf Ireland, PGA coaches, and a network of committed volunteers, junior golf is more inclusive and accessible than ever.
Key reasons behind the momentum:
- Structured national programmes: Initiatives like Junior Golf Ireland are building pathways from grassroots level to elite competition.
- Family-friendly clubs: Many offer junior tee times, clinics, and flexible family memberships.
- Inspiring role models: Irish stars like Leona Maguire and Rory McIlroy, who both started as juniors here, continue to inspire.
- School partnerships: Some schools now include golf in PE or run after-school golf programmes.
- Post-Covid growth: Golf has become a go-to outdoor sport for many young people since lockdown, with clubs seeing a surge in junior sign-ups.
How Kids Can Get Started
If your child is interested in golf — or you’re hoping to get them involved — there are plenty of easy and welcoming ways to begin.
1. Join a Local Club
Most clubs across Ireland offer junior memberships at low rates, often with:
- Weekly junior roll-ups
- PGA-led coaching programmes
- Supervised practice sessions
- Summer camps and holiday events
2. Explore National Initiatives
Golf Ireland’s Golf4Girls4Life creates supportive spaces for young girls to get involved. Boys are equally supported through club coaching and development pathways.
3. Find a Junior Coach
Many PGA professionals now specialise in working with children, using fun, game-based methods that focus on enjoyment as much as technique.
4. Keep It Casual
Par 3 courses, pitch-and-putt, or even nine-hole loops are perfect for kids just getting started. In the early stages, it’s about fun — not form.
From First Swings to Competition
For juniors who want to compete, Ireland has a clear and supportive structure:
- Club junior championships
- Inter-club cups and leagues
- Provincial development squads
- Irish Junior Opens and Order of Merit events
- National panels for high-performance players
Golf Ireland’s pathway gives committed juniors the chance to grow, improve, and even represent Ireland internationally. Many of today’s top Irish pros — including Shane Lowry, Stephanie Meadow, and Tom McKibbin — started right here in junior club competitions.
The Role of Parents and Volunteers
Every young golfer needs a support system. Parents, volunteers, and club mentors are at the heart of junior golf in Ireland. Their time, encouragement, and energy help make it all possible.
They organise events. They walk the fairways. They cheer every shot — good or bad. And their impact stretches far beyond the scorecard.
Voices from the Fairway
“I love playing with my friends every Saturday. Sometimes we just laugh the whole way round.”
— Emma, age 10, junior member in Clare
“Golf has given my son so much confidence. It’s taught him patience and how to focus — which even helps at school.”
— Louise M., parent from Cork
“Our junior section has exploded in the last few years. It’s great to see so many kids out enjoying the course.”
— Brian, junior convenor in Mayo
Looking Ahead
Ireland’s junior golfers aren’t just the future — they’re already shaping the present. With better access, stronger programmes, and a wave of new enthusiasm, there’s no limit to how far young players can take their game.
Whether they’re aiming for the tour or simply enjoying weekend rounds with friends, every child deserves the chance to learn and love the sport in a supportive environment.
Want to Get Your Kids Into Golf? Start Here:
- Visit your local club and ask about junior programmes
- Explore opportunities on www.golfireland.ie
- Follow local coaches and clubs for updates on camps and events
- Most importantly — keep it fun, relaxed, and social
Golf is a game for life. And the earlier they start, the longer they’ll love it.
Let’s tee up the next generation — together.
