The lure of the game could be attributed to the lush opulence and richness of the greens. For me, such vast greenery summons up childhood memories of picking, rolling, and tumbling in the grass; oh the freedom.
Could it be the tempestuous breeze of dry crisp air that sucks you in. The arid fondling of this invisible gas substance that meets you upon arrival just prior to tee off. Or could I completely be underestimating one simple element...the smell of fresh green grass?
'Ah-Choo'!
Golf is a game of focus, practice, repetition and determination. It is a game for all ages. A possible lifelong hobby, that I hope will capture the heart of my son.
From this Ancient game created during the Middle Ages, he will learn some of life's lessons. Golf can take us on a journey of different obstacles and challenges. Like life, golf has different courses and unpredictable scenarios. The game will ensue in him the gift of persistence, positive thinking, and the confidence to bet on his self. If one club doesn't get the job done, change it out, try another.
I hope that my son will use the game of golf to give him the opportunity to take time out-and to seek the crisp air. To extract from the beauty of the green master pieces of both God and man. And to never forget to hunt for the meandering scent of fresh green grass. To allow it to permeate through his soul. Such a Godly scent.
My son wants to add that there is more to golf than just green grass. That there is an exploding excitement that happens when you hit the ball with proficiency. That in that moment of precision, the countless balls hit in error will dwindle by your minds wayside. And there, you will linger in triumph, for at least that moment.
It's the ball hit off the tee, with coached accuracy, that is the one that counts. The one that makes the game captivating. The shot that makes you return to the game, again, and again.
TJ's 2-day Jr. Golf Camp, at The Westin Kierland- Scottsdale, Arizona. Price tag $338.00, which includes four hours of private instruction and lunch. And let's not forget about the few hours of resort swim time for the girls and I.
If you think the price tag is too steep, keep in mind that there are many affordable options out there to introduce your child to the game of golf. For as low as $99 you can purchase a summer pass on many golf courses. The summer pass then allows you to play a round of golf for about $12.
Another great way to get kids started with the game, is to check to see if your community offers a First Tee program. In 180 communities across the United States and in select international locations, The First Tee chapters deliver the Life Skills Experience curriculum to kids and teens at more than 900 golf programming locations. First Tee is a wonderful golf mentoring program created by the PGA. The cost for an entire year of lessons is about $59, the program offers 1-two hour lesson per week. Visit Firsttee.org.
Some photographs are property of the Westin-Kierland.
Not an endorsement- for informational purposes only.
by Conay and TJ Huizar
