In partnership with the San Diego Junior Golf Association
The Emerald Golf Development Pathway (EGDP) is a comprehensive program for junior golfers to learn, develop, and compete through expert coaching, accessible programs, and a partnership with the San Diego Junior Golf Association that expands opportunities through scholarships, tournaments, and player development initiatives.
ABOUT THE EGDP
A Roadmap to Success
The Emerald Golf Development Program (EGDP) is more than a collection of junior golf lessons and tournaments—it’s a complete pathway designed to help young golfers learn, develop, and compete with confidence at every stage of their journey. Unlike traditional junior golf programs that focus on a single aspect of player development, the EGDP connects every step of the process, from a child’s very first swing to competitive tournament play, all within one supportive, welcoming, and accessible environment.
Led by Heather King, PGA, San Diego PGA Teacher of the Year, the program is built on a passion for developing not only better golfers, but more confident, engaged young people. Through a unique partnership with the San Diego Junior Golf Association, including Emerald Isle’s annual $20,000 commitment to the Emerald Golf Development Scholarship Fund and underwriting player entry fees for SDJGA events at Emerald Isle, the EGDP removes barriers and creates meaningful opportunities for every junior golfer to succeed.
From PGA Junior League, LPGA Girls Golf, camps, clinics, and private instruction to the new Emerald First Step Series—a free tournament experience created specifically for first-time competitors—the EGDP provides an unmatched developmental pathway where every junior golfer has the opportunity to start, improve, and progress at their own pace.
Core Initiatives
The Pathway Mission
Built on four core initiatives—Development, Connections, Guidance, and Support—the Emerald Golf Development Pathway (The Pathway) provides junior golfers with a comprehensive foundation for success. Through expert coaching, a connected player pathway, experienced leadership, and meaningful community partnerships, The Pathway creates opportunities for every junior golfer to learn, grow, and thrive in the game.
DEVELOPMENT
The EGDP gives junior golfers a place to start, improve, and progress at their own pace through coaching, programs, tournaments, and competitive opportunities.
CONNECTIONS
The EGDP serves to connect all parts of a player’s journey – from introduction and instruction to development and competition within a supportive and accessible environment.
GUIDANCE
The EGDP will be led by Heather King, PGA, San Diego PGA Teacher of the Year, whose passion for player development and commitment to growing the game continue to shape Emerald’s instructional programs and player experiences.
SUPPORT
The EGDP is a partnership with the San Diego Junior Golf Association which includes an annual commitment from Emerald Isle of $20,000 to the SDJGA Emerald Golf Development Scholarship Fund, and the underwriting of all player entry fees for SDJGA events held at Emerald Isle.
Next on the Tee
What’s next on the Pathway?
Looking ahead, Emerald is planning to build a new indoor Player Development Center featuring simulator technology to further enhance player development opportunities. Stay tuned for renderings of the new build, coming soon!
Together with our partners at SDJGA, we’re committed to creating accessible pathways into the game and helping players confidently take their next step in golf. In the coming weeks we will be providing more information on the First Step Series and look forward to bringing you along with us on The Pathway journey.