From First Swing to Full Swing: San Vicente’s Junior Golf Program Welcomes Young Players

At the San Vicente Resort, golf is more than a game — it’s an opportunity for kids to explore, learn, and make lasting friendships in a supportive, outdoor setting. The San Vicente Golf Course offers programs designed to introduce young golfers to the sport while fostering confidence, teamwork, and a love for being active.

The San Vicente Junior Golf Program focuses on building skills while keeping the experience fun. Children work on all aspects of the game, from putting and chipping to full swings, in a relaxed, encouraging environment. The program is structured to celebrate every achievement, big or small, and to help kids develop a lifelong appreciation for golf.

Golf instructor Tim Smith says the junior program has grown significantly and helps lift players’ spirits while teaching values such as integrity, honesty, and teamwork. Because golf is an individual sport, each player can work on techniques tailored specifically to him or her.

The year-round program is open to both residents and non-residents ages 6 to 14. Participants meet twice a week, on Wednesdays and Saturdays, to learn the fundamentals of the game. Currently, 80 children are signed up, with about 15 to 30 attending on any given practice day. Attendance is flexible, and there is no requirement to participate every week. Each clinic is led by two to four instructors who focus on teaching proper ball striking and overall golf skills.

Smith says the program was the vision of Matt Brumbaugh, San Diego Country Estates Interim General Manager and former Head Golf Pro at the San Vicente Resort. What began with approximately eight children has grown to 80 participants. According to Smith, Brumbaugh wanted to ensure our golf experience had a junior golf program that would nurture young players and teach them the game of golf.

Sessions run Wednesdays at 4 PM and Saturdays at 10 AM. Registration is $50, with individual clinic sessions available at $10 each on a pay-as-you-go basis. Group instruction allows young golfers to practice together, share experiences, and enjoy the camaraderie that comes with playing a sport as part of a team.

Private Lessons for Kids and Families

For those seeking more personalized instruction, the Golf Shop Team offers private lessons tailored to each child’s pace and personality. Kids can also enjoy lessons alongside family members, making golf a shared experience.

·        Single Lesson: $50

·        Series of 5 Lessons: $200

Experienced instructors leading these sessions include Fred Arcaina, 1st Assistant Golf Pro & Tournament Director; Cody Snyder, PGA Associate and Golf Shop Assistant; Daryl Neff, Golf Shop Assistant; and Tim Smith, Golf Shop Assistant. Appointments can be scheduled at the San Vicente Golf Shop or via email at golf@sdcea.net.

A Community Hub for Young Golfers

San Vicente is more than just a golf course — it’s a place where kids connect with nature, form friendships, and enjoy healthy outdoor activity. From the first time a child picks up a club to enjoying a round of golf with friends, the San Vicente Junior Golf Programs make the game approachable, fun, and memorable. Whether for skill-building or simply enjoying the outdoors, young golfers find a welcoming environment where every lesson and every game is a chance to grow.

San Vicente Resort will be holding the San Vicente 2026 PGA Junor League May 13 to June 24. More information is available at https://www.pgajrleague.com/junior-league-events/129bc911-770d-427a-a81b-7a44e7bd13bb.

Whether they’re swinging a club for the first time or sharpening their skills, young golfers at San Vicente Golf Course enjoy more than just the game — they gain confidence, make friends, and experience the joy of being outdoors in a welcoming, supportive environment. With programs designed for learning, play, and connection, San Vicente Junior Golf is the perfect place for kids to grow both on and off the course.

Photos by Tiffany Pressler.