Golf is a game that transcends age. Starting in 2024 the OBG Board of Directors will be promoting and developing a Youth Initiative that will reach out to a younger generation of blind or visually impaired persons, between the ages of 13-23, that would like to try out or return to golf. We also welcome younger youth, with the support and attendance of their parents or guardians.
OBG wants to keep the organization and members growing. That comes with advocacy and education but most importantly it will come from the future. From the “youth” or the younger generations who want to take part in a sport, a leisure activity, which welcomes any and all skill levels.
For new youth members OBG will allow them to come out and try their first round for free. The new member and their Coach will be welcome guests at any one of our events. The Annual Membership of $75 will also be waived for the first year. Coaches are not required to pay any annual fees.
Some efforts we aspire to support in 2024, include:
- Establish a junior blind golf program that provides coaching, training, and mentorship to young players, fostering their passion for the sport from an early age
- Organize youth-focused blind golf clinics and camps, creating a fun and inclusive environment for children to learn the fundamentals of the game and develop their skills
- Create a fund specifically for youth blind golfers, offering financial assistance for tournament participation, equipment, and training opportunities
- Collaborate with schools and community centers to introduce blind golf to children of all abilities, promoting the sport as a fun and inclusive activity for everyone
- Partner with local golf courses and clubs to host youth blind golf events and tournaments, providing opportunities for young players to showcase their skills and compete in a friendly environment
- Create a junior ambassador program that encourages youth blind golfers to share their experiences, promote the sport, and inspire their peers to get involved
- Offer adaptive equipment and training tailored to the needs of young blind golfers, ensuring they have the tools and support they need to excel
- Collaborate with organizations dedicated to youth sports and disability inclusion, expanding the reach and impact of our charity’s efforts to increase youth membership in blind golf
- Develop educational materials and resources for parents, teachers, and coaches, providing guidance on how to support and encourage young blind golfers in their athletic pursuits
If you are wondering who might be able to coach you, and you don’t know any golfers that want to help, we can. OBG has some great people that are happy to be part of your first game with us. Reach out to any Board member and we will do our best to make it happen.
All rounds are subsidized by OBG in an effort to keep the costs low, accommodating and including a wider audience with various visual abilities and circumstances.
OBG is also working on hosting some lessons/training sessions/clinics before certain events and this will include any youth that wish to come out and try out their game, or improve it. There is also the opportunity to golf with another pairing who are capable and experienced golfers who can help refine parts of your game. Stay tuned for more news on these, they will be listed under the Events tab of the website.