The USGA and ESPN golf schools joined together in 2008 to give USGA members discounts and benefits to participate in lessons. ESPN golf schools were developed in 2003 and provide instruction for individuals of all ages and abilities. ESPN has 50 sites across America at some of its most prestigious golf courses. It offers various programs, which include the power tour, a one-day program that teaches golfers to drive the ball farther. The schools also offer a beginners' program teaching basic gripping, driving and etiquette. In addition, ESPN offers a three-day club tour that focuses on three clubs: the driver, putter, and wedge.
The LPGA and USGA have united to give instruction to young female golfers. The golf sites that provide lessons are coordinated by site directors who are LPGA or PGA professionals, USGA members, or members of the Executive Women's Golf Association. In addition moms, dads and girl scout leaders can also apply to be site directors as long as they meet the requirements. These include showing a strong desire to play, identifying a LPGA or PGA instructor to teach the girls and demonstrating funding. Girl's golf provides a solid foundation for girls who want to have playing time with family and friends or who would like to eventually play competitively. The schools present a five-level progressive learning system course. The LPGA/USGA golf schools offer girls an enjoyable environment in which they can make new friends, learn about the game, and compete.
In 2009 the PGA and USGA came together with intention of providing instruction to junior golfers. The purpose is to increase the number of junior golfers and to encourage kids in pursuing a lifelong participation in golf. This pilot program is designated to seven states and areas with the strongest interest including Indiana, Illinois, New Jersey, northern Texas, South Florida, southern California and Wisconsin. Three initiatives have been implemented. An after-school program is available for all interested children and lasts for one hour for four to six weeks. A trio mentoring program that encourages golfers to reach their full potential is designated for six children in each identified area. Kids have to be chosen by a PGA professional to participate in the trio mentoring program. The third initiative is the PGA first swing and medalist curriculum, which teaches kids core golf skills, rules and etiquette of the game.
The USGA and PGA offer workshops across the country for members to become more acquainted with the rules of golf. Golfers with a range of experience participate in the workshops. The rules can be complicated and overwhelming, therefore the workshops are divided up for beginner, intermediate and advanced golfers. The USGA offers several two-day workshops and a three-and-a-half day workshop around the country; however, the workshop in Dallas, Texas, is restricted to participants who have passed an optional 100-question exam. To participate in the workshop in Dallas, golfers need to get 85 or better on the exam. If a golfer does not feel ready to take this exam, he can take an intermediate exam. The intermediate does not give access to the Dallas workshop, but will help build your confidence to take the 100-question exam.