Access may be the single most important factor in getting people into golf. That’s why Harold Varner III has teamed up with Youth on Course and become their first national ambassador.
The motivation behind this partnership stems from Varner’s own childhood when he was able to play unlimited rounds at his local muni each summer for just $100. He hopes this partnership will give kids similar access to what he enjoyed as a kid.
“I just wanted to be a part of something that gets kids on the golf course,” Varner told GOLF.com.
As a part of this announcement, GOLF.com chatted with Varner and got his tips on how to get into golf. Here’s what he had to say.
1. Get into a program
Golf can be intimidating sport to try for the first time. With all of the rules — written and unwritten — and expectations on the course, there are lots of ways to mess up and feel embarrassed. Youth programs can help ease those feelings and open doors to the game.
“Just find a program where you get to go play,” Varner said. “Find somewhere where you get to go be awesome.”
If you’re interested in getting into the game but don’t know where to start, look for a program like Youth on Course or the First Tee. They can help you get over the barriers to entry and get you out on the course.
2. Find someone to do it with you
If you don’t have access to a program, try finding someone who will take on golf with you. Having a go-to playing partner makes golf more fun and makes you more likely to keep coming back because of the social aspect.
“It’s way easier if you can find someone who just wants to go play golf,” Varner said. “With basketball, you can go shoot by yourself. Or baseball it’s cheap to just go play catch. Just find someone who wants to go play golf with you.”
3. Have a chance to mess up
Don’t be afraid to mess up. And if you do, keep coming back. Don’t let setbacks be discouraging.
“You want to know why successful people are well off?” Varner said. “It’s because they have a chance to mess up. They decide, ‘This is what I’m going to do.’ And when you can just focus on what you want to do and go do it, good things happen.”
