Since 1993, the Indiana Golf Office has proudly called Franklin, Indiana, home. Given the tremendous growth of The First Tee of Indiana, the Indiana Golf Foundation has decided to focus future efforts on increasing The First Tee programming, with the hopes of reaching even more Indiana youth in the years to come.
To that end, the Board of Directors recently voted to list the Indiana Golf Office’s current building and property for sale, with the intention of making a new home in the Indianapolis-area once the building sells. This major move will enable the Foundation to focus even more resources on growing The First Tee efforts—reaching more than 65,000 junior golfers statewide—which include not only golf training, but also character building, with its nine core values and nine healthy habits.
Because of the move, the Gongaware Junior Golf Academy will cease to exist in its current state after this summer. This decision was not taken lightly. Over 5,000 junior golfers have attended the Gongaware Academy over the last 17 years, but attendance numbers have been in steady decline—camp competition has increased and the balanced year-round school calendar has taken its toll. In addition, the facility has become increasingly expensive to maintain, especially given the seasonality of the game and camps. All of these factors played a role in the decision to move.
“While nothing will replace the special experience offered at the Gongaware Junior Golf Academy, we are excited about the opportunity for The First Tee of Indiana to reach even more youth golfers across the state,” said Mike David, Executive Director. “The loss of the overnight camp will leave a hole that we won’t be able to fill immediately, but we know that our campers, parents, and instructors will help us keep its legacy alive. And we are forever grateful for the support shown over the years by Ted Bishop, The Legends Golf Club, and the entire Franklin community.”
The Indiana Golf Office exists to give back to the community, and to the game that has given so much to Hoosier golfers statewide. By refocusing financial resources, the organization hopes to dedicate even more funds and energy to expanding its programming and to better serving all Indiana golfers at the new location.
The sales process could take several months to complete. Until then, it’s business as usual for the Indiana Golf Office.