Sandpoint Elks have success with Hook-a-Kid on Golf national program

SANDPOINT — A huge success is the best way to describe the Sandpoint Elks Youth Golf Program’s incorporation of the national program Hook-a-Kid-on Golf, as a host of area kids are enjoying the fun of golf.

The beginners’ group completed their instructions, training and practice at the Elks Golf Course and the Conoco driving range in Sagle recently. All kids who completed the course get to keep the new clubs, bag, balls and tees, in addition to the shirt and hat.

All 36 participants, ranging in age from 8-15 years-old, showed up every day attentive, obedient, respectful and patient while moving through four separate training stations at the Elks. They also practiced at the driving range.  

On the final day, the students were teamed up with their family member, an instructor, or Elks volunteer for an alternate shot golf scramble on the golf course. It was incredible to see the improvement over five short days for kids who had never held a club.

After the presentation of their Completion Certificates, each participant was delivered their golf clubs for the final time, and this time for keeps. Finally, a hot dog barbecue finished off a fun and effective week for Sandpoint’s newest generation of golfers.

The next group, with the same instructors and volunteers, has already begun a six-week, Wednesday-only training program for players with previous experience. They will also be instructed on rules, technique, etiquette and improving their game.

The Youth Golf Program was made possible by a grant from the National Elks Foundation. Only 57 grants were awarded, and Sandpoint received one for more than $9,000, a credit to the grant writers.

This is intended to be an annual event and will be increased next year to accommodate more participants, since some kids missed out this year.

The Elks are extremely grateful to the following members who made this first program a success: Mike Deprez, Mike Keough, Nita Garvey, Irv Jenkins, Jack Parkins, Dean Raynor, Vance Alderman, Mary Stevens, Bob Huyck, Gary Noble, Rick Holcomb, Russ Brisboy, Holt Taylor and Denny Creighton.

Finally, a special thanks to: Tom Tharp for the use of the golf course; Nelson Ferrick for the use of the Conoco driving range in Sagle; Interstate Concrete for new practice pads; Sandpoint Building Supply for materials for new practice nets; Staples Office Supplies for printing; and all the parents, grandparents and whoever brought these great kids every day.

It is community-minded people like these that make Sandpoint a great place to live and work.