Members of the Texarkana Golf Ranch’s MGA are eager to see junior golf grow in the city and surrounding communities.
The Ranch’s MGA has visited with local and area high school golf coaches, and parents who have youngsters playing college golf. The plan is taking baby-steps to ignite new energy and excitement in regard to junior golf.
Golf USA proprietor Tom Parsons, and Texarkana Golf Ranch General Manager Hunter Campbell have linked up with MGA President Julian Roemer and his membership. The first step is a Golf USA Demo Day on April 27 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.
MGA trying to start junior golf program
Tickets for the event are $10, and can be purchased at the course or Golf USA. All proceeds will go to starting a junior program.
“Ultimately, the goal is to create a good junior golf program that creates a stepping stone in interaction with juniors who might be interested in playing,” said Parsons. “We want them playing golf, and we want to keep them playing.
“It’s a big project. We hope to raise money to put on an interaction, possibly create scholarships for some of the high school golfers. Basically, we’re wanting to start a fund to build a foundation for the long-term goal.”
Usually these type of Demo Days are only big city events. Manufacturers like Ping, Callaway, Taylormade, Mizuno, Cleveland/Srixon, Titleist and Tour Edge will have representatives on the driving range at the Ranch.
They’ll have all their newest equipment and clubs available for golfers to test. Parsons indicated anyone wanting to purchase a new driver, or set of irons, can be professionally fitted. He’s also offering a discount at this promotion.
“It has been a few years since we’ve hosted a Demo Day,” said Parsons. “There’s a lot of new equipment, and new technology that works. I’m 50 years old, and hitting the ball as far as I did when I was 20.”
Special fund-raising events slated
Campbell noted there will be special events.
Roadhouse is sponsoring a target competition, with the prize being an entrée at the local restaurant. Money raised during these special events will also go towards a new junior program.
It’s no secret that golf is an expensive sport. Give 10 kids a basketball and you’ve got a game. However, you need clubs, balls, shoes, etc., to play golf.
Texarkana had the First Tee at New Haven Golf Club. There were financial problems that led to its demise. The Ranch’s MGA faces a huge challenge. The golf community’s support on April 27 would be a good place to start.
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