Golf pro Sam Cresta teaches kids the basics and joy of the sport

Hoping to spread the joy of a game that has given him so much, Golf Pro Sam Cresta, of American Classic Golf Club hosted a two-day camp July 8-9 for kids aged 7 to 12 at the course north of Rehoboth Beach.

A dozen kids took part in the two sessions aimed at getting young players to see how much fun the game is while learning the basics of golf, including different swings. The future course crushers also learned golf etiquette and the importance of playing the game properly.

“Almost everyone was a total beginner,” Cresta said. “The goal of the camp, more than anything, was for them to just have fun and get introduced to [golf]. It was actually less instruction than other classes and clinics we've run. Safety is first and foremost, but more getting to know what the clubs are – iron versus driver, what a chip is, what a putt is, when to use the driver, when to use a seven-iron, how to hold the club, how to swing. Very basic in terms of mechanics. In terms of the structure of the camp, it was more to just get them exposed to golf, having fun with it, meeting the other kids and hopefully wanting to play more golf.”

Although this was the only camp this summer, Cresta said parents who are interested in getting their kids involved can book lessons at ACGC, or for extra benefits, they can register with the national Youth on Course (youthoncourse.org) program. Parents pay $20 per year for the program that allows their child to play at enrolled courses for $5 or less.

ACGC is also host to First Tee classes in the spring and fall. The course has another advantage for younger golfers.

“A lot of people don't realize we actually have a kids’ course out here,” Cresta said. “In the fairways, the yellow plates are actually a kids’ course, and we have a kid scorecard, so it's even shorter than the regular front tees.”

Players, adults included, opting to learn from Cresta are getting a first-class lesson.

“I’m certified with the United States Golf Teachers Federation,” Cresta said. “I also offer private lessons, one-on-one or small group, which is another great way to get engaged.”

Cresta started the game a little bit later in life, but he said golfing and teaching were the perfect pair.

“I had a passion for the game and a passion for teaching, and it kind of blended those together,” Cresta said.

Parents or players interested in lessons or playing can go to americanclassicgolf.com.