As the numbers show growth in women’s participation in golf, courses and clubs are adding heavier doses of instructional programming to complement the traditional low-key, more casual outreach efforts.

Junior golf programs are growing up, as more targeted and relevant approaches are helping to overcome the next generations’ initial aversions to the game.

Cutting-edge retailing at today’s clubs has gone far beyond hoping for quick sales as golfers check in for tee times. Today’s top shops offer a shopping experience that may not even involve golf.

Socializing + cocktails + a side order of golf = winning events!

Success has come in many forms for some of today’s leading golf instructors, but they’ve all shared one common approach: being open-minded in their search for creative and unique “teaching moments” that can lead to customized solutions.

A variety of properties have initiated innovative, ongoing programs to successfully draw in new players from beyond golf’s traditional demographic profiles.

Golf professionals still hold the keys to stimulating more participation in the sport. Here are profiles of several who have found especially effective ways to unlock new interest and enthusiasm.

A new model that combines golf and fitness memberships at extremely affordable rates is proving to be an especially attractive mix of recreational offers.

Built around family-friendly facilities and a more effective management structure, the “farm system” at Haggin Oaks consistently yields new crops of eager young golfers.

Upgraded golf practice facilities have moved front-and-center as an important amenity that not only helps to boost interest in the game, but also adds appeal and value to club memberships.

More properties are awakening to how senior players may hold the best promise for growing the game.

Many club and resort properties are proving there are no limits to growing the women’s side of golf, given the proper mix of fundamentals with fun.

As clubs refocus on junior programs as a key to golf’s long-term health, they’re realizing broader payoffs by bringing in families who will use the full range of club services and amenities.

Some clubs are finding that “coming up short” may be the best way to break out of golf-round stagnation, as they gain big benefits from small-course strategies.

To build on new awareness and momentum created by the USGA’s “While We’re Young” campaign, more clubs and courses are devising player-friendly solutions to help support the need for a faster pace of play.