Golf has always typically been associated with adults. However, in 2026, the data is reflecting how younger people, including children, are participating more and more. In fact, according to The R&A’s 2025 Global Golf Participation Report, published in 2026, 47.1 million juniors are now playing golf in some form across its affiliated markets, excluding the USA and Mexico. This article will explore what is driving kids and parents towards golf.
The Changing Appeal of Golf
Historically, golf has been associated with older generations, typically viewed as a traditional pastime for adults rather than an activity for children. This may be partly because the sport has long been linked to private clubs and expensive memberships. Even today, some people might assume that golf is unsuitable for children because of the time involved, the size of the course and the technical skills required to play. Yet, the recent data is revealing that more children and young people are taking up golf and viewing it as a serious hobby. Golf clubs are becoming more accessible for children with more junior-friendly programmes, making the sport feel less exclusive and more approachable for families. Much like checking out the latest DraftKings markets for the US Open on a mobile device has become increasingly straightforward and simple, accessing and engaging with golf itself is becoming easier than ever for younger generations.
Reasons for Kids and Parents Gravitating Towards Golf
While golf may seem like a stationary sport, it can actually be quite physically demanding. For example, large courses can involve several miles of walking while swinging the club can engage your core, legs, hips, shoulders and arms. This physical activity helps strengthen muscles, improve coordination and build flexibility. For parents and children, it gives them a reason to be active together, replacing sedentary leisure time such as gaming or scrolling on their phones.
While golf involves athletic ability, it also teaches lessons that extend well beyond the course. Golf allows children to become knowledgeable about matters such as personal responsibility as they are tasked with keeping scores and following rules. Golf also teaches young people patience and self discipline, problem solving skills and respect. For instance, if a shot goes wrong and they feel frustrated, they can learn how to channel this in a positive way such as trying again or taking a break rather than lashing out.
Of course, there are also social benefits for parents and children engaging in golf. Not only do parents and their children get to spend quality time together but they can also meet other people on the course. In 2026, there are more initiatives geared towards younger players and families such as school schemes and team-based formats. For parents who already play golf and want to introduce their children to the sport, there are now shorter courses and junior-friendly formats that allow families to enjoy the game together without committing to a full 18-hole round.
Golf is also becoming more visible to children through video games such as Wii Sports and EA Sports PGA Tour, as well as social media platforms where younger audiences can watch professional golfers, challenges and golf content creators. This increased exposure can make the sport feel more familiar before children ever step onto a course, giving them the confidence to start. On top of this, going out and participating in golf in the outdoors can be an opportunity to breathe fresh air and take in their natural surroundings.
The Future of Golf for Parents and Kids
As more children are taking an interest in golf, the future of golfing could look completely different. Golf organisations are likely to focus more on introducing junior programmes and family-friendly opportunities to bring younger players into the game. For instance, in Ireland, Golf Ireland have implemented grants to assist clubs in funding junior coaching, summer camps and school programmes. Castletroy Golf Club’s Parent and Child Competition could also provide a blueprint for other clubs to introduce similar events, giving families more opportunities to compete together and encouraging children to see golf as a sport they can enjoy with their parents.
Ultimately, golf is no longer deemed a middle-aged man’s sport as younger generations are now choosing to pursue it as a serious hobby. Not only does it help them keep physically fit and active, but it also helps build their confidence and teaches them valuable life lessons such as personal responsibility. In the coming years, it’s likely that golf will become even more inclusive for children and parents, with more programmes and initiatives designed to cater to families. With this, we could see more children getting involved in golf from an earlier age, potentially helping to make the sport more intergenerational.