Beginning with the 2016 season, the Southwest PGA Foundation (SWPGAF) and the Junior Golf Association of Arizona (JGAA) have announced a partnership that will position both organizations to jointly assume a leadership role for the development of junior golf in Arizona. The organizations have outlined several collaborative efforts that will better define the junior golf development landscape, provide rewarding competitive opportunities, and the development of common marketing and promotional campaigns.

“This partnership will allow us to consolidate resources to enhance the junior golf experience for every player at every level,” said Scott McNevin, Executive Director of the JGAA. “The game of golf offers many enriching opportunities from the thrill of competition to valuable life lessons such as honesty, sportsmanship and perseverance – all things that will serve them well on and off the golf course.”

Under the new partnership structure, the SWPGAF will focus on game introduction through golf schools, after-school programming, junior camps, PGA Junior League, Drive Chip & Putt and the Antigua Prep Tour (9-hole beginner events). The JGAA will focus on an event calendar full of competitive playing opportunities, including the JGAA’s Junior Masters Series. Together, they will also offer educational support through scholarships such as the Tres Arnold Scholarship, John Wolfinger Memorial Scholarship, JGAA and SWPGA Foundation Scholarships. Both organizations will also raise funds to support respective programs and initiatives.

“Passing the game of golf on to the next generation has always been one of the primary components of our Association’s mission,” said Michael Miller, Executive Director of the Southwest Section PGA. “Our new partnership with the JGAA supports this mission in a way that will allow us to give more juniors the opportunity to learn, practice and play the game of golf for a lifetime of enjoyment. The PGA professional has always been the touchstone for teaching junior golf at the local level. This partnership further advances that influence on tomorrow’s players.”

The partnership between the two long-time allied associations creates a mutually agreed upon vision that will spearhead efforts aimed at creating a more clearly defined progression through the junior golf learning and development cycle.

For more info on the Firebirds Club, CLICK HERE!