New Jersey Launches State Junior Team as Part of the USGA’s U.S. National Development Program
One of 14 states added to the junior team program in 2026
KENILWORTH, N.J. (Oct. 9, 2025) – New Jersey 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.
“This is an exciting milestone for junior golf in New Jersey,” said Kevin Purcell, Executive Director of New Jersey Golf. “For generations, our state has produced outstanding young players through strong local and regional programs. By joining the USGA’s national pathway, we’re giving our best juniors a clearer route to the highest levels of competition while continuing to strengthen the game’s foundation here at home.”
New Jersey 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. New Jersey’s team committee includes New Jersey Golf, New Jersey PGA Section, Metropolitan Golf Association, GAP and Philadelphia PGA Section.
The committee will oversee team selection criteria, and the operation of Team New Jersey based on guidelines provided by the USNDP. Team selection criteria may consist of a points structure, ranking or combination of other competitive factors, and will be published prior to the entry deadline of the first counting event of the 2026 championship season.
State team roster sizes are calculated by elite junior participation in the state, ranging from two boys/two girls to 20 boys/20 girls. New Jersey expects to have eight boys and eight girls as part of the initial team, which will be named in late 2026. To be eligible to compete on a state team, a player must be a U.S. Citizen and resident of the New Jersey. Each eligible player must be 13 years old by Jan. 1, 2027, have not reached their 19th birthday by July 19, 2027, and must not be enrolled in college for the 2026-2027 school year. A Handicap Index® is also required.
Additional eligibility requirements and FAQs can be found at Team New Jersey
About The USNDP
The mission of the U.S. National Development Program is to foster future generations of American golf talent. The USNDP provides a pathway to success in golf by delivering competitive opportunities, support, and training that develops American golf talent and mitigates financial burdens. With our key strategic partners, host venues, and champions, we provide education, experiences, and mentorship that help athletes achieve success at each level. We are committed to fostering a positive and healthy pathway for American golfers to follow their dreams and reach the pinnacle of the sport.
