Virginia Golfer May / Jun 2018 | Page 31

Want more info? Visit wgaesf.org. The new “Carry the Game” initiative aims to recruit, train and promote more youth caddies across the country. The WGA has also launched a new ini- tiative this year called “Carry the Game,” which is an advocacy group that helps introduce students to golf. Not only does the program encourage youngsters to become lifelong golfers, but it also creates additional opportunities for them to train and work as caddies. “Carry the Game” operates under the WGA’s organizational umbrella, but it col- laborates with such entities as the World Golf Foundation, the United States Golf Association, PGA of America, The First Tee, and Youth on Course. Their focus is to promote the role of youth caddies in golf and to serve as a resource for those interested in becoming caddies or forming a youth caddie program. The goal is to increase the number of youth caddies and the diversity of those individuals by estab- lishing more caddie opportunities at “In addition to being a great way to learn about the game, caddying provides life-changing benefits that are instrumental to young people’s individual growth.” —John Kaczkowski, WGA President and CEO vsga.org golf courses nationwide. VSGA clubs involved in the program are The Found- ry in Powhatan, Kinloch Golf Club in Manakin-Sabot, and Westwood Country Club in Vienna. The program will supply caddie train- ing materials and certification, a caddie club locator, expertise on all caddie-re- lated matters and other forms of support. The end result also assures more future golfers, while preserving and enhancing the tradition of caddying within the game. “Over the past few years, numerous leading golf organizations have discussed the importance of creating a governing body for youth caddying, so we’re excited to see that the WGA is spearheading this important initiative,” said World Golf Foundation CEO Steve Mona. “The WGA is a recognized leader in youth caddying, and we’re all looking forward to working together to help bring this effort to life.” And with the summer months just around the corner, young caddies may be lifting your bag, while also lifting their future opportunities through the game. M AY / J U N E 2 0 18 | V I R G I N I A G O L F E R 29