Golf: Washington Adds State Junior Team As USGA's U.S. National Development Program Grows

Golf: Washington Adds State Junior Team As USGA’s U.S. National Development Program Grows

10/12/25

Washington is starting up a state junior golf team, in association with the U.S. National Development Program (USNDP) for elite golfers 13-18 years old. The USGA launched the USNDP in 2023 to allow junior golfers to develop their game, like other countries do around the world.

Washington is one of 14 states that will add a statewide program in 2026, bringing the total to 30 states with a program. Washington Golf, the Washington Junior Golf Association, and the Pacific Northwest PGA Section will all work together to provide young players with sufficient resources, opportunities, and support to be the most successful golfers possible.

There will be a committee established with members coming from the highest ranks of golf in the state. They will oversee team selection, operation based on guidelines from the USNDP, and other areas of the program, such as the creation of a points structure, ranking system, and other areas of influence. The points-counting events will be published early in 2026, and the points list standing will be the primary consideration for the 2027 team.

The expectation is 24 total players, with 12 boys and 12 girls on the roster. The team will be announced late in 2026. Eligibility requirements are that players must be 13 years old by January 1, 2027, and not have turned 19 years old by July 19, 2027. Players must not be enrolled in college for the 2026-27 year, and must have a handicap index. Players also must be Washington residents and U.S. citizens, while not receiving funding from another golf federation or country.