Murfreesboro golf commission approves free play for children under 6, hears youth-program update

The Murfreesboro Golf Commission voted unanimously to let children ages 0–5 play for free locally and received an update on the Youth-on-Course (Kids Play Free) transition.

Emily Miller, staff member running the agenda, told the commission that ‘‘as of yesterday, we’ve had 125 rounds logged in on course since September 1,’’ and that the Tennessee Golf Foundation paid the first year’s $40 membership fee but that responsibility has now shifted to parents. Miller said the program reimburses the course ‘‘$8 a round’’ while the local junior rate remains lower at about $5 at some courses.

The commission discussed how the program has been used for middle-school and high-school matches and whether it was intended for organized competition. Commissioners noted the existing Youth-on-Course membership covers ages 6–17 and debated how to manage 5-year-olds who might require direct adult supervision. Miller and others said staff can use discretion for very young children and that standard practice often requires a child to be accompanied by an adult when under 12.

After discussion, a commissioner moved to permit children ages 0–5 to play free under the local implementation; the motion was seconded and carried unanimously.

The decision shifts program access while maintaining that the $40 annual membership for Youth-on-Course is now paid by participants’ families. Commissioners asked staff to develop clear communication for coaches and parents about eligibility and any supervision requirements going forward.