Only 54% of children ages 6-17 in the U.S. played on a team or took lessons in 2022, down from 58% in 2017, according to federal data.
The three organizations will work together to elevate youth sports participation through golf by aligning with Project Play’s annual themes, including facility access in 2026; promote and uphold the Children’s Bill of Rights in Sports amongst its stakeholders of coaches, golf facilities and donors; and coordinate to remove barriers that prevent access to the game.
“By joining forces with the First Tee and Youth on Course, we aspire to set a positive example within our industry and underscore the power that collaboration holds in increasing and sustaining the game,” said Steve Tanner, PGA of America Senior Director of Player Engagement. “We are also committed to tracking and reporting our progress toward these goals, providing valuable metrics to shape future decision making.”
“While First Tee’s mission is to help young people build character through golf, development of the game of golf has always been an important byproduct of our work,” said Greg McLaughlin, CEO of First Tee. “Aspen Institute’s Project Play is engaging an array of organizations involved in youth sports to work together. First Tee is proud to come alongside PGA of America and Youth on Course to support this initiative.”
“The benefits of youth playing sports are immense, for their own development, and our society as a whole,” said Adam Heieck, CEO of Youth on Course. “We have a collective responsibility in golf, to ensure our sport is accessible for any kid who wants to play, and that’s what this collaboration is about.”
“Golf is showing what it means to be a team sport,” said Tom Farrey, executive director, Aspen Institute’s Sports & Society program, the backbone organization for Project Play. “Leading organizations are working together in service of youth, creating a common language and set of aligned activities that holds the key to getting and keeping more kids in the game.”