Nike Junior Camps combine game improvement and fun for kids

Golf is a multi-generational game, and for parents who want to enjoy the links with their kids, there is no better time than summer to get them started learning the sport.

This summer, 10 American Golf courses across Southern California will host Nike Junior Camps, where the focus is split evenly between fun and developing young golfers’ skills.

“We want the kids to improve by the end of the week, and we think that the curriculum we put in place achieves that,” said Nicholas Brunner, the National Director and Vice President of Nike Golf Schools and Junior Camps. “But it’s a summer camp too and we recognize that they’re not always super serious golfers, so we have them participating in fun games and different challenges.”

While half-day sessions are available, Brunner said the full-day camps are the most popular because they help young golfers advance the most and are compatible with working parents’ schedules. All players will improve their full swing, short game and putting, and full-day campers often make significant strides because of the on-course instruction they receive in the afternoons.

Instruction is geared toward the abilities of the players in each camp, with a ratio of 6-8 players per instructor. Kids also go home with a Nike hat, a dozen golf balls, bag tag, water bottle and camp workbook.

“At the core of it, the goal is to help the kids improve and enjoy the game,” Brunner said. “We want them to leave with a passion and enthusiasm for the sport.”