October 21, 2025

Scottie Scheffler Launches Free Junior Golf Tour in Dallas

News Summary

World No. 1 golfer Scottie Scheffler has partnered with the Northern Texas PGA to launch the Randy Smith Junior Tour, a free initiative for young golfers aged 6 to 12 in Texas. The tour, honoring Scheffler’s longtime coach Randy Smith, aims to make golf accessible by eliminating entry fees and focusing on learning rather than rankings. Scheduled to start in 2026 with 10-12 events, participants will engage in a stamp-based system on par-3 courses, creating an inclusive environment that encourages sportsmanship and community.

Texas is set to welcome a new initiative aimed at young golf enthusiasts, as Scottie Scheffler, the world No. 1 golfer and a resident of Dallas, teams up with the Northern Texas PGA to launch the Randy Smith Junior Tour. This free junior golf circuit aims to provide a platform for young players aged 6 to 12 to participate in competitive golf without the financial barriers that often limit access to the sport.

The Randy Smith Junior Tour is designed to promote inclusivity and participation in golf, named in honor of Scheffler’s longtime coach and mentor, Randy Smith. Smith is a pro emeritus at Royal Oaks Golf Club and is recognized in the PGA Hall of Fame for his contributions to the sport. Scheffler, who has been under Smith’s mentorship since he was six years old, credits him for instilling the values of character and respect within the game.

The tour will kick off in 2026, featuring 10 to 12 events throughout the year. The participants will be divided into two age categories: 6 to 9 years old and 10 to 12 years old, allowing both boys and girls to take part. The intention is not merely to offer competitive play but to foster learning and enjoyment in the game.

Significantly, the Randy Smith Junior Tour will eliminate typical costs associated with junior golf participation by waiving entry fees and membership dues. This strategic move is aimed at dismantling the financial barriers that may discourage families from enrolling their children in golf programs. Scheffler and the Northern Texas PGA recognize that affordability is a pressing issue in youth sports and are dedicated to creating a sustainable, accessible environment for young golfers.

The format of the events is also geared toward fostering an engaging and educational atmosphere. Participants will compete on par-3 courses using 6 or 9-hole formats, emphasizing personal growth and enjoyment over traditional competitive rankings. Players will form 4-player teams while playing their own balls, and they will be guided by trained high school golfers during the events. These high school mentors will not only instruct participants on golf skills but also teach essential lessons in course etiquette, safety protocols, and sportsmanship.

Rather than focusing on stroke scoring, the tour will utilize a stamp-based system to celebrate each participant’s effort and teamwork. This unique scoring method aims to reinforce the significance of collaboration and personal achievement, making the game enjoyable for all skill levels. Furthermore, parents are encouraged to be present during the events, although they will not be allowed to act as caddies, ensuring that young athletes develop independence on the course.

As a lighthearted closing to each event, all participants and their families will be treated to ice cream celebrations, reinforcing the tour’s commitment to creating a fun and community-oriented atmosphere. The tour’s launch comes at a time when concerns regarding youth sports participation and affordability are prevalent, emphasizing the need for initiatives that encourage inclusivity and access.

In the initial year, the program will focus on fine-tuning logistical operations, gauging the interest levels among participants, and evaluating the potential for future expansion. Although the Randy Smith Junior Tour will primarily serve North Texas, the model established could be adapted and implemented in other regions, creating a wider network of accessible junior golf programs.

The initiative aims not only to provide immediate opportunities for young golfers but also to establish a long-term sustainable pipeline that nurtures future talent in Texas. Through the Randy Smith Junior Tour, Scheffler and the Northern Texas PGA hope to inspire the next generation of golfers while honoring the legacy of a beloved mentor.

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