If your child is ready to move beyond beginner golf instruction and start playing real rounds, the High School Prep 11u Summer Camp at The Golf Practice is built for that next step. This program is Level Two of our summer camp lineup, designed for young golfers with previous experience who want to sharpen their game on the course. With indoor training facilities in Highland Park and Lisle and summer camp sessions held across four Chicagoland locations, The Golf Practice gives junior golfers the structure and course access they need to grow. Sign up now to reserve your child’s spot for summer 2026.
Formerly known as Travel Summer Camp, High School Prep 11u balances skill-building with on-course play. Every session includes skill stations, gameplay, competitions, and at least nine holes of golf. The atmosphere is more focused than a half-day introductory camp, but instruction still centers around fun, teamwork, and real-game scenarios.
Who This Camp Is For
High School Prep 11u is tailored for players around 11 years old who already have a foundation in golf. This isn’t a first-time camp. Participants should be comfortable with basic swing mechanics, course etiquette, and walking a full nine holes on their own.
The camp works well for kids who have completed a beginner or half-day program and are looking for more time on the course. It also fits players who compete in junior tournaments or plan to try out for their middle school or high school golf team in the coming years.
Skill Level Expectations
Players should be able to hit the ball consistently off a tee and from the fairway. They don’t need to be scratch golfers, but they should understand the basics of each club in their bag and be able to manage themselves during a round. Push carts are welcome for those who prefer not to carry.
Where Camp Takes Place
Summer sessions rotate across four well-known Chicagoland golf venues, giving campers the chance to play different layouts and course conditions throughout the summer.
Camp Locations
- The Evans at Canal Shores – Evanston, IL
- Winnetka Golf Club – Winnetka, IL
- Sunset Valley Golf Club – Highland Park, IL
- Highland Park Golf Learning Center – Highland Park, IL
Each location offers a different experience, from links-style play to more traditional tree-lined courses. Rotating between venues helps players adapt to varied conditions, which is one of the best ways to build confidence and course management skills at a young age.
What a Typical Camp Day Looks Like
Each day follows a structured schedule that splits time between focused instruction and on-course play. Mornings often begin with warm-ups and skill stations covering areas like putting, chipping, iron play, and driving.
After skill work, campers head to the course to play at least nine holes. Instruction continues during the round through team formats and on-course coaching. This setup keeps players engaged and gives them a chance to apply what they’ve practiced in a real-game setting.
Instruction Through Gameplay
Rather than running drills all day, coaches introduce themes through competitions and team-based formats. This approach helps kids internalize what they’re learning without the monotony of repetitive practice. Whether it’s a closest-to-the-pin challenge or a scramble format, the games reinforce skills while keeping the energy up.
Skills Covered During Camp
Campers rotate through several skill stations each day. The program is designed to build a well-rounded game rather than focusing on one area at a time.
Skill Station Breakdown
- Putting and short game – Reading greens, lag putting, chipping from various lies, and bunker basics
- Iron play – Distance control, trajectory, and target selection from the fairway
- Driving – Tee shots with a focus on accuracy and consistent contact
- Course management – Club selection, shot planning, and decision-making during play
Coaches adjust instruction based on the skill level within each group, so campers are always working at a pace that challenges them without overwhelming them.
How This Camp Prepares Players for High School Golf
The name says it all. High School Prep 11u is designed to give younger players the tools and habits they’ll need when tryouts come around. High school golf teams expect players who can manage a full round, keep an honest scorecard, and handle themselves on the course without constant supervision.
This camp introduces those expectations early. Walking nine holes independently, managing pace of play, and learning how to compete under mild pressure are all built into the daily routine. Players who go through this program year after year tend to show up to high school tryouts with more confidence and better course awareness than their peers.
What Sets This Camp Apart from Half-Day Programs
Half-day camps are great for younger or less experienced players who are still building comfort with the sport. High School Prep 11u moves faster. There’s more time on the course, more competitive formats, and a higher expectation for self-sufficiency.
That said, this isn’t a boot camp. The coaching staff keeps things fun and collaborative. The difference is in the depth. Players get more reps, more holes, and more exposure to the kind of golf they’ll encounter in organized team play.
How to Know If Your Child Is Ready
The simplest test is whether your child can walk nine holes independently and already enjoys playing golf. If they’ve completed a beginner camp or have spent time on the course with family, they’re likely ready for this program.
If you’re unsure, consider whether your child can do the following: hit the ball with reasonable consistency, follow basic rules and etiquette, and stay focused for a few hours outdoors. If the answer is yes to all three, High School Prep 11u is a strong fit.
Parents who want to build a progression for their child often start with a half-day camp, move into this program, and eventually transition into more competitive junior golf programming. That kind of long-term development path is exactly what this camp is designed to support.
