In the spring of 2007, the Morton Foundation added a new junior golf program called Morty’s Kids @ OSU. This program represents a unique partnership with Ohio State’s Professional Golf Management Program. Under the supervision of our Director of Instruction, Brent Bower and PGA professional Tod Hecht, PGM students develop the curriculum and provide the instruction for this 8-week after-school program.
While there are similarities between this program and Morty’s Kids Junior Golf Days, unlike the summer program, it is by invitation only. Participants from the previous summer’s Morty’s Kids Junior Golf Days are invited to attend based on their skill level, attendance record and age. Registration is limited to 20 kids and the aim is to provide a much more focused learning environment with a greater opportunity for individual interaction. This, in turn, gives kid’s skills a jump start going into the summer program.
The first sessions are held in Ohio State's RPAC facility which offers both classrooms and an indoor putting green and hitting stations. As the weather warms up, the remaining sessions are held at Ohio State University Golf Club. The final week consists of several skill contests, a cookout and awards.
For those enrolled in Morty’s Kids @ OSU, attendance is mandatory for at least 6 of the 8 sessions. Sessions begin promptly at 4:30 and everyone is expected to be checked in and ready for class at that time. Because golf attire is strictly enforced, each child will receive a golf shirt at the first session to wear each week. A $40 fee for the program is due at registration, and financial aid (link to is available).
In our first season, nineteen kids and fifteen PGM students participated. Rave reviews for the program were heard from every direction: children, parents, and the university. Due to the positive response and visible results, we plan to continue this program for many years.
