Golf Course To Host Event For Golf Students In Evanston

The Evanston Wilmette Community Golf Course Association will host golf students who participated in lessons through afterschool programs in Evanston at a special golf clinic and celebration event to be held on Friday, May 17 from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at the golf course.

The programs, held beginning in April for pre- and teenagers at Robert Crown Center, Fleetwood-Jourdain Center and the YMCA of Evanston, introduced young people in Evanston to the game of golf.  In recognition of their progress and enthusiasm for the program, the City, in cooperation with the Golf Association, is hosting this special event at which time the students will have an opportunity to practice their shots, compete in games and contests, and generally have fun – and see a real golf course.  There will be prizes and refreshments for all.

The program, under the auspices of the City of Evanston Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department, offered the lessons which were designed for kids who would not normally be involved in golf.  This is a special initiative to open golf to a diverse community in Evanston.

More than 20 kids participated this spring in the inaugural sessions. The instructors have reported that the kids are spirited and focused on learning.  The City is encouraged to expand the program and continue in coming years.

Among the activities planned will be chipping and putting sessions as well as the ability to play one or two holes.  There will be certificates awarded for completion of the program, along with rule books and golf balls for all. As a special gift, the Golf Course Association will provide two rounds of golf for each of the kids, to be used later in the season.  The kids are encouraged to golf at the course and bring friends and family members. 

As a follow up to this program, the City is also offering Family Golf Nights at the course as well as golf lessons and summer golf camp programs for kids.

“We are impressed with the interest that the kids have shown in their lessons and their enthusiasm for golf, a sport that many may never have considered.  We are happy to host them, and collaborate with the City, to bring golf to our young people. Our course is a perfect setting for new golfers, and an ideal place for families to learn and practice.  We are happy to be available to the youth of our community and to help engage them,” said Jay Ryan, chair of the Youth Golf Committee of the EWCGA. “We want to thank Ray Doerner and Kevin Wallin for their help in organizing this program.  It is a great way to introduce kids from around the City to the game, and the course.”

For more information on youth golf and golf programs sponsored by the city, visit the city website at www.cityofevanston.org.  For more information on the golf course and special rates for youth, visit www.ewcgolf.org or call  847-475-9173 or email  evanstonwilmettecgc@gmail.com.