Role of AJGA and HJGT in Recruitment
How junior golf tours impact college recruiting opportunities
Select Tour
AJGA (American Junior Golf Association)
Premier junior golf organization with national tournaments
Founded
1978
Annual Events
100+ annually
Members
7,000+
Strengths
- Highest level of junior competition
- Strong college coach presence
- Performance-based rankings
- Scholarship opportunities
- National recognition
Requirements
- AJGA membership ($195/year)
- Handicap of 5.4 or better (boys)
- Handicap of 8.4 or better (girls)
- Performance-based invitations
- Qualifying tournaments
Recruiting Benefits Comparison
| Benefit | AJGA | HJGT |
|---|---|---|
| Coach Exposure | High - National tournament presence | Moderate - Regional coach attention |
| Ranking Systems | National rankings and stars | Regional rankings and points |
| Scholarship Opportunities | Rolex scholarships and college grants | Merit-based awards and recognition |
| Competition Level | Highest level junior competition | Multiple skill-based divisions |
Recruiting Strategy by Phase
Entry Level
AJGA Strategy
- Qualify through local tournaments
- Improve handicap to meet requirements
- Attend AJGA qualifying events
- Focus on consistency
HJGT Strategy
- Join appropriate skill division
- Play frequently to gain experience
- Build tournament resume
- Develop competitive skills
Development
AJGA Strategy
- Compete in Invitationals
- Seek star ranking
- Attend junior all-star events
- Build national recognition
HJGT Strategy
- Advance to higher divisions
- Compete in state championships
- Seek regional recognition
- Prepare for AJGA transition
Elite Level
AJGA Strategy
- Compete in Open Championships
- Qualify for Rolex TOC
- Maintain high star ranking
- Attract college attention
HJGT Strategy
- Win regional events
- Compete in national championship
- Achieve top rankings
- Transition to national tours
Cost Analysis
| Category | AJGA | HJGT | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Membership | $195/year | $150/year | Annual membership fees |
| Entry Fees | $200-400/event | $125-250/event | Per tournament entry |
| Travel Costs | $500-2000/event | $200-800/event | Hotels, flights, meals |
| Annual Investment | $15,000-50,000 | $5,000-15,000 | Total yearly commitment |