OPENS MAY 24
YOUTH GOLF DEVELOPMENT CENTER
Strong character , passion for being outdoors , good manners , strategic thinking , and friendship are just a few of the valuable benefits golf can provide a person beginning at an early age and throughout life .
Typically only seen at private clubs and learning centers , the new Youth Golf Development Center at Sunset Valley Golf Club will be Highland Park ’ s and the surrounding communities ’ primary Center for youth golf instruction and skill development in the fundamentals of the short game --the most critical golf skills . The Center features practice areas for pitching , chipping , and putting , as well as long-shot hitting bays and will allow young golfers to practice shots up to 50 yards from fairways , rough areas , and bunkers with a real golf course ' s feel and aesthetic .
The new Youth Golf Development Center expands opportunities for Sunset Valley to carry on its tradition as the area ’ s premiere public course for golfers of all ages and abilities . It will be the host site for summer golf camps , junior lessons , the Highland Park High School boys and girls golf teams , and youth tournaments . When not used for its primary purpose : youth golf instruction , the Center will also serve as a practice facility for all Sunset Valley ’ s golfers .
Fundraising for the Center was initiated in 2018 through a generous donation from Amateur Golf Hall of Famer Joel Hirsch , a Highland Park native and longtime tournament player who dreamed of sharing with local youth the opportunity to learn and love the game of golf . The Parks Foundation of Highland Park has since led several successful fundraising initiatives and has received the support of the golfing community to complete the project . The outing is expected to bring Hirsch ’ s dream to fruition and fund the final amenities needed for youth to experience the personal and social benefits of golfing at the Center .
“ From an early age , playing golf taught me important skills in problem solving , built my self-confidence , challenged me to keep improving and has kept me active and fit while enjoying the great outdoors with my friends and colleagues ,” Hirsch said . “ Because my love of the game started at Sunset Valley , as well as that of so many others in our community , it is hoped together we can bring the same opportunity to today ’ s Highland Park youth .”
The Parks Foundation of Highland Park is dedicated to the belief that every resident deserves the opportunity for an enriched , healthy lifestyle . The Foundation supports and enhances the Park District of Highland Park ’ s exceptional facilities and provides resources to ensure that all community members are able to participate in Park District programs . The Parks Foundation of Highland Park is an independent , community-led , 501 ( c )( 3 ) nonprofit organization . For more information , visit www . pfhpil . org .
1390 Sunset Rd , Highland Park 847.432.7140
Summer 2021 • Park District of Highland Park 66