More Than a Game – Why Junior Golf is Thriving at Came Down
Junior golf at Came Down Golf Club is experiencing real momentum and it’s about far more than simply learning how to play the game.
Across Dorset, more young people and families are discovering golf through inclusive coaching programmes, accessible practice facilities, exciting competitions and a strong sense of community. At Came Down, junior golf has become one of the fastest-growing parts of the club, creating a fantastic environment for the next generation of golfers.
Growth of the Junior Section
The junior section at Came Down continues to grow, with more children and teenagers joining the club and getting involved in coaching, competitions and regular golf activity.
This growth has been driven by a focus on accessibility, enjoyment and creating opportunities for every level of golfer. Whether a child is picking up a club for the first time or already competing, Came Down offers pathways to help every young golfer progress at their own pace.
Just as importantly, the club has created a welcoming social environment where juniors can build friendships, confidence and a lifelong love for the game.
Why More Young People Are Discovering Golf
Golf is becoming increasingly attractive to younger players because it offers something different from many other sports.
Young people are discovering a game that combines outdoor activity, social interaction, personal challenge and competition, all within a relaxed and supportive setting. At Came Down, golf is presented in a modern, inclusive and enjoyable way that removes many of the barriers traditionally associated with the sport.
The game also helps children develop confidence, resilience, focus and independence while spending time outdoors in a safe environment.
Hosting Junior Golf Events in Dorset
Highlights of the year have been hosting the Dorset Schools’ Golf Championship and the South West Schools Golf Championship at Came Down Golf Club.
The events welcomed talented young golfers from schools across the South West and showcased the strength of junior golf across Dorset and beyond. Supported by organisers alongside dedicated Came Down volunteers, the competitions highlighted exactly why junior golf continues to grow – young players enjoying competitive golf in a friendly and supportive environment.
The club also recently hosted the successful Came Down Junior Open 2026, welcoming a strong field of players from across Dorset and beyond. Excellent scoring, fantastic sportsmanship and great support from parents and volunteers all contributed to a brilliant day.
Events like these are helping inspire more young people to get involved in golf and giving juniors valuable opportunities to develop confidence and experience competitive play.
Taking Junior Golf Beyond the Club
Alongside the growth of our junior section, Came Down is also expanding its involvement in team golf through events organised by the Dorset County Golf Union (DCGU). These competitions provide young golfers with the opportunity to represent the club, experience competitive golf at different venues across the county and enjoy the camaraderie that comes with being part of a team.
This year, Came Down juniors are competing in three prestigious DCGU events. The County KO Cup sees teams of four play singles matchplay fixtures both home and away against other clubs.
The club will also defend its title in the Cyril Nash Trophy, held annually at Wareham Golf Club. Last year’s winning trio went on to represent Dorset at the England Golf National Junior Championships, enjoying a fantastic experience on the national stage.
Later in the summer, juniors will also have the opportunity to compete in the Colin Chataway Trophy at Crane Valley Golf Club, another popular county team event that brings together young golfers from across Dorset.
These competitions provide invaluable experience, helping players develop their golf, build confidence and create lasting memories alongside teammates and friends – something that has always been a special part of junior golf.
Throughout the summer, Came Down will also host a series of Junior Stableford competitions and the Junior Championships, giving young golfers regular opportunities to test their skills, track their progress and enjoy competitive golf in a friendly environment.
Growing Golfers Together – Partnership with Wessex Golf Centre
An exciting partnership with Wessex Golf Centre is also providing even more opportunities for junior golfers across Dorset.
The alliance allows professionals from both venues to share facilities and expand coaching access for players of all abilities. As part of the partnership:
Nick Rodgers, Came Down’s Head Professional, is now available for lessons at Wessex Golf Centre
Luke and Fern Shaw from Wessex Golf Centre can now coach on Came Down’s 18-hole course
Both clubs are offering discounted junior membership opportunities
Came Down has provided four complimentary junior memberships to Wessex Golf Centre players
Recently, Club Vice Captain Ryan Ford and Fern Shaw presented complimentary memberships to Sonny Warne, Louie Thompson, Levi Grimshaw-Wills and Charlie Roberts as part of the clubs’ shared commitment to supporting and developing junior golf within the region.
The partnership is helping create a stronger pathway for young golfers by combining high-quality coaching, practice facilities and on-course opportunities.
The Role of Coaching, Facilities and Accessibility
A major reason junior golf is thriving at Came Down is the investment in coaching opportunities and accessible practice facilities.
The club provides PGA professional coaching, structured development pathways and beginner-friendly sessions designed to make golf approachable from the very start. Juniors can access both group and individual coaching while gradually building confidence through practice and on-course play.
Practice facilities also play a huge role in making golf more accessible. Came Down offers a dedicated putting green, swing nets and driving range, where juniors can practise and improve in a relaxed environment, helping beginners build confidence before heading onto the course. For those new to the game, equipment is also available to borrow, while the on-site pro shop stocks a range of clubs and golfing essentials for juniors looking to get started properly.
Having welcoming spaces and easy access to equipment helps remove many of the barriers often associated with starting golf and makes the game far more approachable for young players and families.
Coaching Pathways for All Abilities
At Came Down, junior golf is designed to support every level of player.
Beginners can start with fun introductory sessions, while more experienced golfers can access advanced coaching, competitions and team golf opportunities. Recently, Came Down Juniors faced Weymouth in the Junior KO Cup, with several players making impressive match play debuts in a closely fought contest.
These experiences help young golfers develop both their game and their confidence while enjoying the team side of golf in a supportive environment.
Opportunities for Home Educated Children
Came Down Golf Club is also proud to offer golf coaching opportunities for home educated children across Dorset.
These sessions provide a relaxed and supportive daytime activity where young people can stay active, socialise and learn new skills in a positive outdoor environment. Sessions are suitable for ages 6–16, with PGA professional coaching, clubs provided and options for both one-to-one and group sessions.
Golf has proven to be a fantastic activity for home educated children, helping build confidence, focus, resilience and self-esteem while having fun along the way.
A Safe and Welcoming Environment for Families
Junior golf at Came Down is very much a family-friendly experience.
Parents and family members are encouraged to become part of the club community, whether through supporting competitions, attending coaching sessions or simply spending time together at the club. The welcoming atmosphere helps families feel comfortable from the moment they arrive and allows children to enjoy the game in a safe and encouraging environment.
With growing participation, exciting partnerships and increasing opportunities for young players, junior golf at Came Down has never been in a stronger position and the future looks incredibly bright.
If you have any queries about our junior membership options and benefits, our Academy or lessons with PGA professionals, please get in touch with the team – we’d be delighted to help you or your child get started at Came Down Golf Club.
