In this episode of The Golf Parent Podcast, Ryan Adams sits down with Andrew Lewis to break down the realities of junior golf development and the future of the game in America. From the rise of Texas as a golf hotbed to the importance of tournament experience, Andrew shares insights that every parent of a junior golfer needs to hear.

This conversation goes far beyond swing mechanics. Andrew opens up about the role of parents in building a positive environment, the value caddies bring to young players, and how patience can be the difference between burnout and long-term success. He also provides a candid look at the evolving college golf recruiting process, the impact of NIL, and what it really takes to stand out in an increasingly competitive field.

If you’re a golf parent wondering how to support your child’s journey, build resilience, and keep the joy alive in the game, this episode will give you the clarity and confidence you need.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

- Texas is becoming a hub for junior golf development

- Tournament experience is essential for young players

- True skills development covers every part of the game

- Parents should focus on conversations of improvement, not criticism

- Burnout comes from stress more than overplaying

- Caddies can provide valuable support and strategy

- College recruitment starts early, but kids can reach out to coaches first

- Competition for college golf spots is getting tougher

- NIL opportunities are growing but require patience

- The love of the game should always come first

⏱️ Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Background

02:54 The Future of American Golf

06:06 Developing Elite Junior Golfers

08:56 Tournament Experience and Burnout Concerns

11:44 Parenting and Coaching Dynamics

14:49 Caddying and Junior Golf Opportunities

17:38 Navigating College Golf Recruitment

20:44 Recruiting and Team Dynamics in Junior Golf

21:29 Changes in College Golf Regulations

24:12 The Impact of NIL on Junior Golf

26:13 Focus and Emotional Regulation in Junior Golf

30:34 Parental Guidance and Support

33:03 Fostering Enjoyment and Curiosity in Young Golfers

35:05 Finding the Right Junior Golf Coaches

37:40 Creating Structured Training Routines

40:51 The Long Journey of Junior Golf Development💥 Sponsor Shoutout:

This episode is sponsored by IJGA, the world’s premier junior golf academy trusted by families who want to unlock their golfer’s full potential.🔗 Connect with Andrew lewis:

📸 Instagram: @Andrewlewisgolf

🌐 Email: Ajlewispga84@gmail.com

🌐 Website: https://bio.site/alewisgolf

🔗 Connect with The Golf Parent:

🌐 Website: https://www.thegolfparent.com/

📸 Instagram: / thegolfparent

📺 YouTube: / @thegolfparent

🎧 All Episodes: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube