U.S. Kids Golf

Corporate Headquarters: Peachtree Corners, Georgia

Website: http://www.uskidsgolf.com

Category: Equipment

LEADERSHIP

Dan Van Horn, President and Founder

John Plaziak, CEO

Lane Andrews, VP Marketing LLC & Foundation

John Bryan, VP Coaches Institute

Eric Meracle, VP Sales

Company Overview

U.S. Kids Golf stands as the world’s leading junior golf company, with a comprehensive approach that spans equipment manufacturing, tournament organization, and coaching development. Founded in 1996 by former golf professional and engineer Dan Van Horn, the company emerged from a father’s mission to help his young sons better enjoy the game of golf. Today, U.S. Kids Golf has impacted over a million families worldwide through its three core divisions: equipment manufacturing, tournaments, and coaching education.

The company’s foundation rests on its innovative approach to youth golf equipment, offering four distinct product lines scaled for players in 3-inch height increments. These include the Yard Club for beginners, the industry-standard Ultralight clubs, the advanced Tour Series, and their newest EP line featuring technologically advanced putters and adjustable drivers. Additionally, the company serves the growing female golf market with its Ultralight for Women line.

“Our vision of families spending time together outdoors and playing golf remains our true passion,” says founder Dan Van Horn. “We’re not just selling golf equipment – we’re creating a pathway for young players to develop their skills and love for the game while building lasting family memories.”

Key Facts:

• World’s largest organizer of junior golf tournaments, hosting more than 1,900 events annually
• Certified over 6,100 coaches across 73 countries through the Coaches Institute
• Offers four distinct equipment lines serving players from 36″ to 69″ tall
• Operates the U.S. Kids Golf Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization
• Hosts the prestigious U.S. Kids Golf World Championship at Pinehurst, attracting over 2,000 players from 50+ countries

Business Innovation

The company’s innovative approach extends beyond equipment to its entire ecosystem of youth golf development. In 2015, U.S. Kids Golf purchased Longleaf Golf & Family Club in Southern Pines, NC, which serves as a “living laboratory” for growing kids and family golf in a club environment. The facility features the pioneering Longleaf Tee System, with seven tee locations ranging from 3,200 to 6,800 yards, making the course accessible to players of all skill levels.

Service Offerings:

• Custom-fitted youth golf equipment for all skill levels
• Global tournament series including Local Tours and World Championships
• Comprehensive coach certification program
• Player Pathway development program with ten skill levels
• Family-oriented golf facility operations

Strategic Advantages:

U.S. Kids Golf maintains its market leadership through a unique combination of properly fitted equipment, structured player development programs, and extensive tournament opportunities. Their integrated approach ensures young players have access to appropriate equipment, quality instruction, and competitive opportunities that match their skill level and physical development.

Future Focus

The company continues to expand its global reach through its tournaments division and Coaches Institute while advancing equipment technology for young players. The success of their World Championship events, which have produced numerous PGA and LPGA stars, demonstrates the effectiveness of their development pathway.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

U.S. Kids Golf’s holistic approach to junior golf development has created a sustainable model for growing the game. By combining properly fitted equipment with structured learning programs and appropriate competition opportunities, the company has established itself as the global leader in junior golf development. Their commitment to family involvement and player-appropriate programming continues to shape the future of golf while creating lasting family memories.