More affordable tee times for Cincinnati youth
The Cincinnati Recreation Commission has joined with the nonprofit Youth on Course to make golf more affordable for local children, expanding the program to 11 courses across six facilities in Greater Cincinnati. The move is intended to increase year-round recreational options and lower barriers to entry for juniors interested in the game.
Under the agreement, youngsters with an active Youth on Course membership can play nine holes for $3 or 18 holes for $5 at participating CRC courses. The rates apply any time Monday through Friday and after 3 p.m. on weekends and holidays, giving families greater flexibility to schedule outings outside school and work hours.
“We’re incredibly proud of this collaboration because we believe in golf’s ability to transform lives, build confidence, friendships, community, and create new opportunities,”
the organization’s CEO, Adam Heieck, said in a statement announcing the partnership.
Local impact and growing demand
The expansion comes as Youth on Course membership in Southern Ohio rose by 6.4% in the first half of 2026, signaling increased interest among youth and a need for more low-cost entry points to the sport. For Cincinnati-area parks and recreation officials, the partnership is a way to leverage public golf assets to support youth development without adding significant new budgetary burden.
- Access: 11 courses now participate across six CRC facilities.
- Cost: $3 for 9 holes, $5 for 18 holes with membership.
- Hours: Weekdays all day; weekends/holidays after 3 p.m.
One named local partner in the announcement is Avon Fields Golf Course at 4081 Reading Road. The full list of participating sites was described as expanding the Greater Cincinnati footprint for 2026; CRC officials said the arrangement is meant to create more consistent, affordable playing opportunities so youth can continue developing skills and enjoying outdoor recreation through the year.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Participating courses | 11 |
| Facilities | 6 |
| Price (9 / 18 holes) | $3 / $5 |
| Membership growth (H1 2026) | 6.4% |
Why it matters for Cincinnati
Affordable access to city recreation facilities has been a focus for local leaders trying to broaden youth engagement with healthy, structured outdoor activities. Golf proponents and recreation officials say the sport offers opportunities for mentorship, physical activity and scholarship pathways, and lower-cost rounds can make those benefits reachable to families who otherwise face financial barriers.
For Hamilton County and the state, the partnership is an example of public and nonprofit collaboration to expand services without significant new capital outlay. If local demand continues to grow, CRC and Youth on Course officials indicated they will monitor usage and consider further expansion or schedule adjustments to meet community needs.
Registration details for Youth on Course membership and a complete list of participating Cincinnati courses were made available by the organizations at the time of the announcement.
