July 2017 | 15 Subscribe today at juniorgolfmag.net “The development of a junior or adult golfer is in three stages: introduc- tory, recreational and competitive,” Jacobs says. “The golf industry has done a great job cultivating competitive events and tours, and an average job at developing recreational programs. But it has neglected to concen- trate on introductory programs. “TGA benefits the industry through reaching millennial parents, en- gaging students at the same time they are trying and playing other sports along with economically impacting golf courses, PGA and LPGA Professionals and manufacturers. We truly mark the beginning of the player pathway. With traditional golf participation on the decline, it’s important to bring the values of golf to youth and parents, and increase the number of players.” Jacobs believes that TGA’s biggest strength as an organization is the business, curriculum and training infrastructure that it provides to its franchises to create a golf ecosystem within people’s communities. “Utilizing a franchise model, we give people the opportunity to be their own boss, control their own time and destiny, and build equity in a busi- ness they are passionate about while investing in their community and the game of golf.” David Weiss is a Los Angeles-based freelance golf writer who has contributed to GOLF, Golfweek, LINKS, Wall Street Journal, Newsweek and Men’s Journal. Kids learn the fundamentals, inside and out, with clubs, balls and unique learning devices