Texas is launching a state junior golf team that will expand the pipeline for elite local golfers into the recently created U.S. National Development Program (USNDP), an initiative launched in 2023 by the United States Golf Association to create critical development, competitive, and talent identification opportunities for golfers ages 13-18.
Texas is now one of 30 states to join the USNDP’s state junior team program. The initiative launched in January 2024 with seven pilot states, expanded to nine more earlier this year, and continues to grow steadily. The USGA’s goal is to establish a team in every state by 2033, working in close partnership with allied golf associations, the PGA of America and its sections, and local junior golf programs.
“This program represents an important step in building the national player pathway,” said Heather Daly-Donofrio, USGA managing director, Player Relations and Development. “By creating state junior teams, we’re not only opening doors for more juniors to access resources and development opportunities but also instilling pride in representing their home state. That combination will help elevate competition locally and deepen the overall pool of talent nationwide.”
The participating states will each establish a committee consisting of representatives from major golf entities within the state including any AGAs and PGA of America Sections. The Team Texas Selection Committee will be comprised of representatives from the Texas Golf Association and both the Northern Texas and Southern Texas Sections of the PGA of America.
To learn more about Team Texas, including detailed overview, selection criteria and FAQs, click here. To read more on USGA Adding State Junior Teams Under USNDP Umbrella, click here.
Additionally, the 2026 USNDP Grant application deadline is Friday, Oct. 31. The USNDP Grant provides up to $15,000 in reimbursements for families of competitive junior golfers demonstrating financial need and exceptional potential to progress through the USNDP Development Pathway. For more information, click here.
