So, you and your family would like to learn to play golf? Your next question is probably, “How much is it going to cost us?” Great question. Maybe it won’t cost as much as you think.
Let’s for a moment assume that your family consists of two adults and two children; the youngest of which is 4 or more. Next, let’s assume that you’re committed to put some time into the effort once or twice a week. Final assumption, you and your family have not played golf before. Okay? Let’s begin.
First, take some lessons. Learning before buying can pay big dividends later. Most golf facilities have clubs you can borrow or rent while you’re taking lessons. Expect to take 5-7 hour-long lessons for the family to learn the fundamentals. Look for an instructor who will engage everyone in the family and help you grow and learn to play together. Golf instructors typically charge $80 to $120 per hour, so expect to pay around $600 for 6 sessions.
Next, you will need to purchase clubs. “Big box” stores like Dick’s and their subsidary Golf Galaxy carry starter sets (bag, irons, woods, and putter all in one). It’s not critical to get the top of the line here as you will want to replace your clubs anyway after a year or two. Expect to pay $200 to $400 per set or about $1,200.
Third, head for the driving range where you can practice the drills the golf instructor has suggested. Remember to make it fun. Take turns hitting. Observe and remind each other what the instructor said. Some of the better ranges also have short game areas where you can practice your putting and short game. A couple large bucket of balls for the family will probably run you about $20-25, plus snacks. Plan on practicing once or twice for each lesson you take or about $150 for six practice outings.
Now you’re ready to play. Before heading out, let’s add up your investment. You’ve spent $600 on lessons, $1,200 on equipment and apparel, and at least $150 on practice. Of the available summer time, you’ve have used six outings on lessons, one outing (or two) on buying clubs and stuff, and six outings on practice. At this point, you’ve probably only got three or four outings left before school starts in September.
Keeping your child’s interest in the game at this stage is paramount. Look for a family-friendly course that offers 3-hole rates and family tees. Best Ball, a format often found in company golf outings, can be a great way to keep the family playing together. Nine-hole walking rates run about $15-20 per person, plus ice cream sodas. Expect to pay $40-60 per outing or $200 for the summer.
Investing almost $2,000 for the opportunity to play four times with the family doesn’t seem like a great return on investment. However, take another look at what you’ve accomplished. The family has learned a game you can play together (and with others). You’ve spent time together learning, practicing, and playing. You’ve encountered many teachable moments for the important things of life like honesty, humility, integrity, patience, perseverance, and compassion. Finally, you’ve built a solid foundation for playing together for the rest of your lives. As the commercial says, that’s PRICELESS. Now, how much did it cost?
[Editor’s Note: Like most you may feel after reading the above that you and your family has neither the time nor the money to learn the game. For these reasons, Play-a-Round Golf has just announced SNAG-a-Family, a more fun and economical way to get your family into the game. We can get you golfing “Quicker. Cheaper. Better. And a Ton More Fun.” Interested? Give us a call.]
