Indiana State Junior Team
Indiana Golf is proud to announce the launch of Team Indiana, part of the USGA’s State Team Program within the U.S. National Development Program (USNDP). This new initiative is designed to identify, support, and elevate the top junior golfers in each state, while giving them access to valuable resources and opportunities to grow their games on the regional and national stage.
As a member of Team Indiana, selected players will not only represent our state but also gain exposure to training, education, and competition pathways that prepare them for success at the highest levels of amateur and professional golf.
Introducing Team Indiana
About Team Indiana
Indiana Golf has been selected as one of 14 new states joining the USGA’s State Junior Team Program in 2026, expanding opportunities for the next generation of elite golfers right here in our state.
As part of the U.S. National Development Program (USNDP), launched in 2023, Team Indiana will help provide critical development, competitive, and talent identification opportunities for golfers ages 13–18. Indiana becomes one of 30 states now participating in this rapidly growing program, which aims to include all 50 states by 2033.
Heather Daly-Donofrio, USGA Managing Director of Player Relations and Development, said:
“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.”
About the U.S. National Development Program
The USNDP, launched by the USGA, is the first national pathway for golf development in the United States. By partnering with Allied Golf Associations (AGAs) across the country, the USNDP provides a framework for identifying and supporting talent at every stage of development, beginning with state-level teams like Team Indiana.
Learn more about the USNDP: USGA National Development Program
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Committee Oversight: Team Indiana will be guided by a committee of representatives from [insert organizations, e.g., Indiana Golf, Indiana PGA Section, First Tee-Indiana, etc.].
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Selection Criteria: Finalized criteria will be published before the first counting event of the 2026 season. Selections may be based on points lists, rankings, and other competitive factors.
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Roster Size: Indiana anticipates naming 12 players (boys and girls combined) to the inaugural team in late 2026.
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Eligibility:
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U.S. Citizen and Indiana resident
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Ages 13–18 as of Jan. 1, 2027 (must not have reached 19th birthday by July 19, 2027, or be enrolled in college for 2026–27)
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Active Handicap Index® required
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Additional eligibility information will be posted here as details are finalized.
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Team Indiana athletes will gain:
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Access to USNDP training, education, and athlete resources
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Recognition as one of Indiana’s top junior golfers
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Competitive opportunities to represent Indiana at higher levels
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Exposure to a clear pathway connecting junior, collegiate, and elite amateur golf
FAQs
Who can be selected for Team Indiana?
Junior golfers meeting age, residency, and eligibility requirements, with performance measured through points/rankings and committee discretion.
Do I need to apply?
No. Eligible players will be evaluated automatically based on performance in recognized competitions.
When will the first team be announced?
The inaugural Team Indiana roster will be named in late 2026, following the championship season.
How many players will be on the team?
Indiana expects to have 12 players (6 boys, 6 girls) as part of its first team.
What benefits come with being on the team?
Players will gain access to USNDP resources, advanced development opportunities, and the pride of representing Indiana on a national stage.