Sandpoint Elks driving forward with Youth Golf Program

SANDPOINT — Sandpoint Elks Lodge No. 1376, Benevolent Protective Order of Elks has made some impressive strides toward a fully-functional, kid-ready Youth Golf Program for the young people in Bonner County.

With a generous $9870 grant from the Elks National Foundation and the dedication of Elk volunteers, there will be a couple of wonderful opportunities for 8 to 15 year-old kids to begin, and improve, their golf experience.

The YGP committee, under Program Director Denny Creighton, has formally partnered with “Hook a Kid on Golf,” a nationwide support organization dedicated to introducing the game of golf to kids at an early age.

“This is not just about playing golf,” said Creighton. “It’s about the life-lessons of discipline, respect, honesty, integrity that are part of the basics of the game…and life, really. Imagine all that, and having a lot of fun at the same time.”

 Sandpoint Parks and Recreation Department has agreed to include the YGP in its summer schedule and provide all the registration, insurance and background checks for the instructors.

“This is a great advantage to the Elks and the community” said Huyck of Parks and Rec’s involvement. “They are a focal point for many activities, and people know them. That takes the pressure off of the Elks, who will provide all of the instructors, helpers and administrators of the program.”

There will be two separate sessions. Both are for 8-15 year-olds and each will have 36 participants.

“Tee” level will be for kids who have never played golf, from July 16-20. All new equipment will be provided for the kids to keep upon completion.

“Green” level is for young golfers who already have clubs, and will be held once-per-week, for six weeks starting on July 25.

These programs are free and will fill up fast so register early beginning May 21 at Parks and Rec.

For more information please call the Elks at 263-3811, or visit “Sandpoint Elks lodge 1376” on Facebook.