FORT JACKSON, S.C. -- Fifteen children are playing outside, but it is whisper quiet. They are occupied with putters and golf balls instead of water balloons this summer. The Junior Golf clinic at the Fort Jackson Golf Club is under way with the focus of introducing youngsters to the game of golf.
Throughout the course of the five-day clinic, young golfers are taught the basics of golfing such as putting, chipping and golf course rules and etiquette. Twelve-year-old Johnathan Kaus said he was pleasantly surprised at his first experience with golfing.
“It’s fun. So far I’m actually liking it.”
Approximately 50 young golfers, from novice to seasoned veterans, are in the program.
Jordan Rochelle is one of the more experienced players.
“I’ve been playing golf since I was 5 years old,” said the 10-year-old. “I like coming to the clinics because it’s fun, and it really helps me become better at golf.”
Junior golfers at Fort Jackson learn and hone their skills under the instruction of trained professionals. The clinics and lessons are taught by certified Professional Golf Association instructors who have completed at least six years of training. Many of the instructors have decades of golfing experience.
“I’ve been at this for about 20 years and I enjoy spending time out here at the clinics,” said Mike Casto, director of golf and general manager for the Fort Jackson Golf Club.
The golf club staff members said they have seen how golf instruction brings families together.
“It’s all about family. This is a new way for parents to relate to their kids and for kids to spend time with their parents,” said Paul Tabor, an assistant golf pro. “I have memories of spending time out on the golf course with my dad when I was younger, and we offer that opportunity to the families here.”
Junior Golf clinics are held only during the summer, but lessons are available for children and adults throughout the year.
Fort Jackson families can also spend time at the golf club for free.
“We have a par 3 course here with three holes available to play free of charge. We provide all of the equipment here,” said Kurt Sokolowski, golf pro. “We want families to come take advantage of this great course, and when they would like to extend their game to other parts of the course, we can help them with that also.”
The course has 36 holes that include views of downtown Columbia, ponds and lakes.
“We have one of the best courses of all Army installations right here,” Tabor said. “This is a great place for families to come. It’s also a great place to bond.”
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