The fastest growth in organization history reaches new heights for access and opportunities for youth golf
Monterey, Calif. – Youth on Course – the nonprofit organization providing youth with access to life-changing opportunities through golf – announces a historic milestone of four million rounds played by its members. This landmark achievement marks the fastest growth in the organization’s 18-year history, with the last million rounds played in less than a year.
This achievement represents a remarkable acceleration for Youth on Course and the increasing demand for affordable access to golf. It took 14 years to reach its first million rounds played in 2020. Since then, the pace has accelerated dramatically, with the second million achieved in just over two years, the third million in 17 months, and the fourth in an unprecedented 11 months. The organization's growth demonstrates its significant impact on youth development and its pivotal role in expanding the sport’s reach to new generations.
“Reaching four million rounds, including an unprecedented one million played in a single calendar year, is a defining moment for Youth on Course," said Adam Heieck, CEO of Youth on Course. “The rapid pace of our expansion speaks to the growing demand for affordable access to golf for youth, the incredible support from our partners and the dedication of our members. As we look to the future, we remain committed to breaking down barriers and creating even more opportunities to inspire and support the next generation of golfers.”
Founded in Monterey, California, in 2006, Youth on Course began with access to just six golf courses in Northern California. Today, it has grown into an international organization, providing golf rounds for $5 or less to nearly 250,000 members across more than 2,000 golf courses in the U.S., Canada, and Australia. By breaking down financial barriers, Youth on Course empowers young people to enjoy the game’s benefits, from fostering life skills to creating career opportunities.
Central to this achievement is Joshua Jackson, the Youth on Course member who played the four millionth round at Willow Springs Golf Course in San Antonio, Texas. A senior in high school and standout athlete, Joshua has faced recent challenges, including an ACL injury that ended his football season.
His mother, Rachel, shared, “After Joshua tore his ACL in the second football game of the season, he was devastated. The injury effectively ended his high school football career and impacted his college recruiting journey. The only thing that took his mind off things over the last two months was hitting the golf course with his buddies. He would never have gone to the course he played on that day if it weren’t for Youth on Course.”
Jackson joined Youth on Course in November 2023 through the Texas Golf Association (TGA). His milestone round underscores the importance of partnerships like the one with Willow Springs Golf Course, a Youth on Course partner since 2019. The course has provided more than 2,000 affordable rounds to young players in the local community, fostering opportunities for youth to develop a lifelong love for golf.
“Congratulations to Youth on Course and Joshua Jackson on playing the 4 millionth round here at Willow Springs Golf Course,” said Ruben Caraveo, Director of Marketing at Alamo City Golf Trail. “We are proud to partner with Youth on Course to drive access so more kids in our area can experience this great sport.”
Managing Director of the TGA Foundation, Kelly Kilgo expressed, “Reaching four million rounds played is more than a milestone—it’s a testament to the impact of Youth on Course. Every swing, every putt, and every round represents an opportunity for young golfers to learn, grow, and fall in love with the game. I’m especially thrilled that the four millionth round happened in Texas!”
As Youth on Course looks to the future, the organization remains committed to its mission of removing barriers to golf and empowering youth through the game.
About Youth on Course
Youth on Course is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that provides youth with access to life-changing opportunities through golf. Private funding makes it possible for members to have access to play for $5 or less through subsidies to thousands of courses throughout the United States, Canada and Australia. Members have the opportunity to succeed through Youth on Course programs: DRIVE Club, Careers on Course, Leadership Council and College Scholarships. In addition, Youth on Course recently launched an Alumni Network, which extends membership to those 19 and older. This elevated membership offers opportunities for young adults to connect at complementary events, access exclusive deals, find jobs, and much more. More information about Youth on Course can be found by visiting youthoncourse.org or Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok and X.