Rochester District Golf Association

A week of learning, laughter, new friendships, and a whole lot of golf. ⛳💙

The Jerry Stahl Junior Golf Academy gave young golfers from across the Rochester community the opportunity to experience the game, learn new skills, and discover everything golf has to offer.

From their first swings to taking their new clubs home, the memories made this week are just the beginning.

A huge THANK YOU to everyone who made this experience possible — our coaches, volunteers, partners, supporters, and most importantly, the incredible juniors who brought their energy and enthusiasm every day.

Together, we’re creating opportunities and helping grow the game for the next generation.

YMCA of Greater Rochester | United States Golf Association - USGA | First Tee - Western New York | First Tee

A great day of golf, competition, and community at Old Hickory. ⛳

Special Olympics New York athletes from the Genesee and surrounding regions came together for the 2026 Genesee Region Super Regional Golf — showcasing their skills across multiple levels and, most importantly, enjoying the game together.

From the opening ceremony to the final putts, take a look back at some of the moments that made the day special.

Congratulations to all of the athletes, coaches, volunteers, and supporters who made it possible!

Golf is more than a game — it’s an opportunity to try something new. ⛳

Two juniors from the Jerry Stahl Junior Golf Academy share why they joined the program, what they discovered about the game, and what the experience meant to them.

From finding a love for putting and hitting the driving range to simply being given the chance to learn, their words say it best:

“I would say thank you for giving me this opportunity and letting me learn new things.”

That’s what this program is all about. 💙

United States Golf Association - USGA | YMCA of Greater Rochester | First Tee - Western New York

“A game that can last a lifetime.” ⛳

For Tim Karches, Executive Director of First Tee - Western New York and a First Tee Recognized Coach, the Jerry Stahl Junior Golf Academy is about much more than learning how to swing a golf club.

It’s an opportunity for young people across the Rochester community to meet new people, learn new skills, and develop values like perseverance, honesty, and integrity through the game.

Thanks to Tim and everyone helping create an experience that can make an impact far beyond the golf course. 💙