Program Summary
The Rochester District Golf Association and the RDGA Foundation are very pleased and honored to support the Jerry Stahl Junior Golf Academy – along with the support of several other organizations, including the Oak Hill Foundation and First Tee Western New York.
Through generous sponsorship, as many as 50 children will receive access to First Tee programming and RDGA Junior Membership with Youth on Course program. These students will come from First Tee community partners: YMCA of Rochester, Boys and Girls Clubs of Rochester, and the Monroe County Youth Bureau. All participants will be from underserved and in-need communities from the Rochester Area, as identified using the First Tee Socioeconomic Tool.
Now in Year Two, the Jerry Stahl Junior Golf Academy has expanded its reach to include a three-day golf camp for those participants who demonstrate a skill or desire to learn more.
This year’s programming will continue with “Mentor Play Days” in which participants will get to play 9 holes of golf with members of the local golfing community providing support and encouragement.
Eventually, the goal is to provide year-round programming – including access to indoor simulators during the off-season.
Thanks go out to all the program supporters and partners listed below who have helped the Jerry Stahl Junior Golf Academy come to life!
Participant Providers
YMCA of Rochester
Boys & Girls Club of Rochester
Monroe County Youth Bureau
Monroe County Parks - Genesee Vallley Golf Course
Program and Funding Providers
Oak Hill Foundation
Rochester District Golf Association Foundation
First Tee Western New York
Tom Watson Links
EnCompass
Program Features
First Tee instruction and programming
RDGA Junior Membership
Youth on Course Pass, allowing affordable access to golf courses.
Equipment & Practice Facility Access
Uniforms
USGA GHIN Handicap
Program Description
The Jerry Stahl Junior Golf Academy is a dynamic initiative designed to provide access to golf opportunities while fostering both personal growth and skill development for youth in the Rochester community. Through a strategic collaboration, the Oak Hill Foundation and RDGA Foundation have contributed essential funding, ensuring the scholarship’s sustainability. The RDGA Foundation continues to support the Youth on Course program by providing stipends to participating clubs, expanding access to affordable golf for young players. This collaboration ensures that youth from diverse backgrounds have the opportunity to experience the game of golf, regardless of their financial situation.
At the heart of the program is First Tee Western New York’s commitment to providing instruction and programming that integrates life skills education, character development, and leadership training. By empowering youth with these values alongside golf skills, the program creates a structured pathway for their growth, both on and off the course. First Tee identifies and supports deserving young athletes, offering them the tools to succeed in life and sport.
In addition to First Tee instruction, the program offers a comprehensive range of resources to participants. Through the RDGA Junior Membership and Youth on Course Pass, youth receive affordable access to golf courses, allowing them to practice and play year-round. Participants are also provided with equipment, access to practice facilities, uniforms, and a USGA GHIN Handicap, ensuring that they have everything they need to develop their skills and track their progress. These resources eliminate barriers to participation and foster an inclusive, supportive environment for learning and play.
The Jerry Stahl Junior Golf Academy ultimately empowers youth by providing not only access to golf but also the mentorship, character-building opportunities, and community involvement that create lasting impacts on their lives. Through this collaboration, we are shaping the next generation of golfers and leaders, creating opportunities for success both in the game and in life.
FAQ
Transportation
- Our partner organization EnCompass will provide transportation for participants to and from First Tee classes from July through August.
- As part of the agreement, partner organizations will also commit to transporting participants to the golf course for a set number of scheduled field trips.
Equipment Concerns
● First Tee will provide all necessary equipment for use during clinics.
● Participants will also receive golf clubs to continue practicing outside of class and to use on field trips.
Coach Training for Community Partners
- As part of our commitment to expanding access to golf and character development, First Tee will offer specialized coach training to staff members from our partner organizations. This training will equip community partner staff with the knowledge and skills needed to deliver meaningful golf instruction and life skills education, ensuring that participants receive continued support beyond the summer program. By empowering community partners with coaching capabilities, youth will have ongoing access to mentorship, practice opportunities, and structured learning experiences year-round, fostering long- term engagement and personal growth both on and off the course.