St. Jude Golf Program

St. Jude proudly competes in the Western Athletic Conference golf program, joining 10 other schools in a dynamic and competitive league. Athlete athletes are expected to have a foundational understanding of the game and will compete under official league rules. More than just a sport, the St. Jude golf program offers a rewarding social and athletic experience that emphasizes personal growth, integrity, and teamwork. Our focus is on developing self-sufficient, responsible, honest, and competitive athlete athletes—both on and off the course.

Eligibility

The program is open to athletes (girls and boys) in grades 5–8. Younger athletes with the appropriate skill level and readiness may also be considered for participation.  Programs are typically offered across Instructional, Junior Varsity (JV), and Varsity levels, with placement based on skill level—not grade; teams may be coed.

Season Overview

Team placement is determined through several evaluation rounds held in late spring. The official season begins in late July and concludes with a league tournament in early October. Depending on placement level, teams typically compete in 10–14 matches throughout the season. Matches are held at local golf courses and are organized by skill level, giving athlete athletes the opportunity to compete in a supportive, team-oriented environment.

Practices & Player Development

The St. Jude golf program is designed to help athletes grow and refine their skills. Weekly practice opportunities include driving, putting, and—in the case of Varsity players—weekly 9-hole rounds outside of conference matches. While group practices are not mandatory, they are strongly encouraged and play an important role in helping athletes prepare for competition and continue developing their game.

Program Levels

Instructional Program (Developing & Beginner Golfers)

The Instructional Program is designed to help players build foundational skills while learning the rules, etiquette, and sportsmanship of golf in a semi-competitive environment.

Player readiness expectation:

Beginner golfers are welcome but should try to play 3–5 full 9‑hole rounds during the summer prior to the season (or equivalent experience) so they are ready to participate in matches. Families are encouraged to pursue clinics/lessons before the season since there is limited time to teach brand-new players once matches begin.

Match support & supervision:

Parents/adult volunteers are expected to help walk with groups during matches; guidance/advice is allowed in instructional-level play as needed.

Competitive Program (JV & Varsity)

The competitive pathway is intended for golfers with stronger course experience who can compete under more formal match standards. This includes JV and Varsity levels with team assignment based on demonstrated performance.

Competitive play rules:

Tournament rules apply at competitive levels—no advice may be given during matches (including by parents), and players are expected to have an in-depth understanding of rules and etiquette.

Learn more about the rules on the league page.

Tryouts / Team Placement:

Tryouts for Varsity take place during May at Robins Nest.  We use the best 2 scores out of 3 to align you to the proper team (Varsity or JV).

Tryouts for JV is by score ranking from playing 2-3 rounds on their own during May and beginning of June.  Golfers not trying out or turning in score cards are generally placed on Instructional teams.

Athletes may be permitted—and at times requested—to play up on a higher team level to address roster needs caused by player conflicts or absences (for example, a JV player playing on Varsity). However, athletes rostered on a higher-level team are not permitted to play down on a lower-level team (for example, Varsity to JV).

Parent Participation

Because our golf program does not have formal coaches, each family is asked to volunteer as a parent helper for at least two matches during the season. No golf experience is required. Parent volunteers will be given green fees from the coordinator to pay at the start of the match, help gather the group and engage in the team prayer beforehand, keep play moving, and collect and submit scores to the Golf Coordinator after the match. The official parent volunteer of the match will get a cart free from the course to assist in keeping up with the teams.

This support is especially important for Instructional-level golfers where we encourage and welcome parents to walk or ride with the athlete to support them in their instruction play.

Registration Information

Fees & What’s Included

Registration is $150 for the season

Registration includes:

Practice fees

Greens fees

Uniform polo and hat

A one-time additional Varsity expense ($25) to cover higher greens fees and expanded match/practice schedules will be requested after Varsity roaster is chosen. 

Walking carts are available to rent at each match for $5.  This is not included in your fees, if your athlete requires a walking cart they should bring the $5 to their match and pay the course directly for that rental.