Children ages 6 to 9 learn to put at the Junior Golf Camp at the Fort Jackson Golf Club July 11, 2022. They will learn fundamentals in putting, chipping and their swing during the week-long camp. (Photo Credit: Alexandra Shea)
Junior Golf Camp returns for the summer
By Alexandra Shea, Fort Jackson Public Affairs
The Fort Jackson Golf Club has returned with another Junior Golf Camp program. Children 6 and older can get help with their golf game from Professional Golf Association instructors in a fun atmosphere.
“It can be challenging teaching children, but I’ve been teaching juniors for over 20 years now,” said Will Forrest, Fort Jackson Golf Club assistant golf professional. “I love doing it and this golf camp is probably one of the best things for kids. It grows their interest and game on top of getting them outside.”
The camp is offered throughout three months; June, July and August. The July camp started July 11 with new and returning students. The children are divided into age groups where those aged 6 to 9 meet from 8 to 9:30 a.m. and those aged 10 and above meet from 10 to 11:30 a.m.
During each one and a half hour session, children learn techniques to improve their golf game covering putting, chipping and their swing.
“They will see an improvement in their game,” Forrest said. “We do all we can to build on their foundations.”
For 7-year-old Zoe Zweimiller, Junior Golf Camp has become a family affair and opportunity to make her Paw-Paw proud.
“My kids attended this camp when they were kids,” said Randy Hudson, commonly called Paw-Paw by his granddaughter Zoe. “I’m proud of her and love seeing her having a good time and making new friends. It’s a great environment.”
Hudson said he gets to practice with Zoe and looks forward to the day they will be able to play a full game together.
Hudson was able to watch Zoe and her fellow students as they worked on putting. She frequently looked back and shouted, “I got it in Paw-Paw.”
Hudson was joined by other parents and chatted about the children’s clubs and how well each was doing during the session.
Forrest ensured the children had fun while learning by creating two teams and having them see who had the best putt, like a Captain’s Choice game. During this type of game, the team captain selects the best drive and team players move forward on the green to play off the chosen ball. The CG’s First Friday Golf event is Captain’s Choice.
Forrest said those who have missed the first two camp sessions can still participate in the last session in August. He said that registration forms are available at the club house and costs $50 for the week-long camp.
“Just come in and signup,” Forrest said. “It’s a $50 fee and when they are ready, we can get them out here.”
The August session will be the final session of the year. Those interested in enrollment can stop by the Fort Jackson Golf Club located at 3652 Semmes Road. For more information about the program, call (803) 787-4344.