With the PGA-led Golf 2.0 programme focusing attention throughout the industry on growing the game, one Texas course is trying a different approach to attracting new golfers.

Eric Claxton, senior director of golf at the Wolfdancer club in Austin, Texas, returned from the PGA show in Orlando buoyed by the discussion of Golf 2.0. Described by the PGA of America as the most important initiative undertaken in its 96-year existence, Golf 2.0 is intended to make the game user-friendlier and halt slumping participation by keeping golf relevant and desirable among consumers with less money and more options. And of course, junior golf and family participation in the game are a big part of the equation. 

With that in mind, Claxton focused on this year’s spring as an ideal opportunity to add another family-friendly activity at the property, which attracts more than 1,500 daily guests during this time period.

On 11 March, Wolfdancer will have a different look, one that includes over-sized cups and family tees on each hole of its Arthur Hills design. Junior golfers 17-years-old and under will play for free after midday with an accompanying paid adult. A US$100 family pass will be available after 4pm including golf, rental clubs and golf balls for a family of four. 

“We are going to see how this first event goes, and then evaluate from there,” said Claxton. “I hope we will be able to do this once a month during the summer season.”