USA Junior National Team

Elite Junior development built on PGA Tour coaching experience

This is an elite program that is for perspective tournament players looking to play high school and/or college golf. We use the game of golf to develop your junior golfer physically, mentally and personally. Youth golfers receive access to industry-leading training facilities and instruction from Jake Thurm, one of America’s top teachers and short game specialist, alongside Doctor of Physical Therapy, Jeremy H. Smith, PT, DPT, OCS.

Dozens of our students have become nationally and internationally-ranked junior golfers.

This program is for junior golfers ages 8 to 18 and is held year around. If your golfer is interested in playing high school or college golf, this program will prepare them for team placement.

“Jack was a mid-20s handicap when he met Jake. Now he is into the single digits because Jake taught him a repeatable, solid swing. You don’t need to be good to take a lesson. You just want to be good to take a lesson.”

— Parents of USA Junior Golfer

Complete player development – from first swing to tournament golf

Each USA Junior Golf Team Member Receives:

Personalized coaching & development plans
Tour-level technology & video analysis
Measurable performance tracking
On-course strategy & AimPoint green reading
Mental performance & confidence training
Golf-specific strength, mobility & speed
Tournament guidance & recruiting support
Team culture with Callaway gear

“Jake has had a tremendous impact on Ryan’s development—not only as a golfer, but as a young man. We are incredibly grateful for the time, encouragement, and mentorship he has provided over the years.
Like all parents, we hoped extracurricular activities would teach our children valuable life lessons. Beyond the golf skills, tournament experience, and competitive success, what we appreciate most is that Ryan had the opportunity to learn from an outstanding role model. Jake's character, leadership, and genuine investment in his players have helped shape Ryan in ways that extend far beyond the golf course.
For that, we are truly thankful. The influence Jake has had on Ryan's life means just as much to us as the golfer he helped him become.”
– Ben & Monica, Parents of USA Junior Golfer

USA Junior Team: Success Spotlight

Griffin Pohl – Illinois Wesleyan University Men's Golf Team

Griffin is one of Jake Thurm’s Elite Level USA Junior National Golf Team Members. He plays for Illinois Wesleyan University where he has earned College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin Golfer of the Week 3 times in one year.
Robert Politza – Valparaiso Men's Golf Team

Started with Jake Thurm in camps at the age of 9 and went through all 5 levels of the USA Junior Golf Program.
Jack Berry – Babson College Men's Golf Team

One of the standout moments in Jack’s career came with his first collegiate victory, winning by six strokes in a field of over 100 players that included many of the top Northeast Division III programs. The victory is a testament to years of hard work and dedication, dating back to his days with USA Juniors.
Kiki Keen – UW–Green Bay Women's Golf Team

From junior golf to the Division I stage, Kiki Keen keeps rising. She recently sealed her first collegiate match-play win with a clutch putt on 18, helping UW–Green Bay claim the team victory at the Motor City Matchup. A longtime standout who began her journey with us at Nike Junior Golf Camps, earned multiple IJGA wins, advanced through all five levels of USA Junior Golf Team, and continues to build her collegiate résumé — Kiki’s years of development are paying off.
Braden Zacharias

From an 18+ handicap to a 7.5 index, and consistently moving from scores in the 90s into the 70s, this USA Junior Pre-Elite Team member has made remarkable progress. Now competing as a medalist in high school matches and recently recording a hole-in-one, his development reflects the impact of structured training and commitment to improvement. A strong trajectory—and more to come.

Four program level options – each designed to fit your Junior Golfer’s goals

LEVEL 1: PAR

2 group practices each week
Unlimited access to the online V1 Branded Golf Academy

Designed for new and beginner junior golfers

LEVEL 2: BIRDIE

2 group practices each week
2 private lessons with Jake Thurm each month +Play Day 10 weeks each summer
Unlimited access to the online V1 Branded Golf Academy

BEST VALUE! Designed for developing players building consistency and experience

LEVEL 3: EAGLE

2 group practices each week
2 private lessons with Jake Thurm each month
2 personal training sessions with Dr. Jeremy Smith each month
Unlimited access to the online V1 Branded Golf Academy

Designed for competitive juniors preparing for high school golf

LEVEL 4: ALBATROSS

2 group practices each week
4 private lessons with Jake Thurm each month
4 personal training sessions with Dr. Jeremy Smith each month
Unlimited access to the online V1 Branded Golf Academy

Designed for committed players pursuing collegiate golf

“Jake’s program helped Ethan discover a lifelong love of golf. Over the years, he gained far more than swing improvements—he built confidence, lasting friendships, and memories he'll carry with him for years to come.

As he begins his next chapter at the University of Illinois, we're incredibly grateful for the coaching, encouragement, and support Jake provided throughout his journey. Thank you for making such a lasting impact on Ethan’s life.”

— Lucy H., Parent of USA Junior Golfer

Our Junior Team Trains Year-Around

Links & Tees Golf Facility

900 W. Lake St.

Addison, Illinois 60101

Outdoors: May 1 - October 31

Indoors at the Dome: November 1 - April 30

“Ball Speed is the biggest determinant of potential and a college scholarship ”

— Jake Thurm

Ready to get your Junior Golfer started in our program?

If you’d like to connect with Jake for more information, please submit the inquiry form.

If you’re ready to enroll, we start new golfers on the first Monday of each month. Please fill out the two forms below and bring to first practice.

Click here for Enrollment Form

Click here for Parent Consent Form

“Our relationship with Jake Thurm has been one of the most impactful influences on my child’s development as a golfer. His holistic approach gave me complete confidence in entrusting my son to his care, and Jake embraced that responsibility as if he were part of our family. His expertise in both the golf swing and the game itself is unmatched. More than just a teacher, Jake is a coach and a mentor. He builds meaningful, personal relationships with his players—ones grounded in trust, communication, and mutual respect. If you’re serious about golf, Jake Thurm will help you reach your full potential.”

— Parents of Griffin Pohl, current Student-Athlete at Illinois Wesleyan University

Special Events

Jackson T. Stephens Cup at Shoreacres

Keynote speaker for The First Tee, September 2025

We Grow Golfers

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