Junior golf is making a vibrant comeback in Pahrump, thanks to the efforts of David Wilson and Tori Peers. Together, they are revamping the Pahrump Valley Junior Golf Program, focusing on providing opportunities for young golfers aged 5 to 18 to learn, practice, and compete in the sport. Their passion for golf and commitment to nurturing the next generation of players are creating a promising foundation for the program’s future.
Tori, an avid golfer since the age of five, grew up participating in the program herself. She played in high school, went on to play at Cal State Bakersfield and now competes at the mini-tour level professionally. For Tori, the program holds a special place in her heart. “The program was a big part of my development growing up,” she said. “It’s exciting to bring it back and give kids the same opportunities I had.” Her extensive experience in the sport provides a wealth of knowledge that she’s eager to share with young players.
David, while newer to golf, brings a unique perspective. He began playing at 25 after a successful basketball career in high school and college. Under the mentorship of former PGA Tour player Bob Byman, David has developed a deep appreciation for the game over the past six years. “I want to share that enjoyment of golf with kids and help them build a foundation early so they’re prepared for middle and high school competition.” The enthusiasm for golf and commitment to teaching it to the next generation that Tori and David share aligns perfectly with the program’s mission.
The program has been dormant for a few years, but Tori and David are determined to restore it to its former glory. They’ve partnered with local golf veterans Bob Hopkins and Larry Goins, who helped establish the original program, to ensure a strong foundation for this new chapter. Their collaborative approach aims to create an environment where young golfers can thrive.
The revamped program begins in January 2025 with two clinics (Jan 3-4 and Jan 19-20) designed to teach young players the fundamentals of the sport. The clinics will focus on everything from swing mechanics to putting techniques and the essential rules of golf. “We’re starting with the basics,” Tori explained. “Clinics will cover everything participants need to enjoy the game and compete effectively.” Flexibility is also key. While attending clinics is necessary for tournament participation, Tori and David understand that schedules can be challenging for families. “If kids can’t make a clinic, we’ll work with them individually to ensure they’re prepared and able to participation in the tournaments,” David said.
Once the clinics are underway, the program will hold monthly tournaments during the school year, transitioning to weekly tournaments in the summer at Lakeview Golf Course. These tournaments provide young golfers with the opportunity to test their skills in a supportive and friendly competitive environment.
Golf etiquette is an integral part of the program. Participants are expected to follow a dress code that aligns with traditional golf standards: collared shirts or golf shirts, no jeans or gym shorts, and golf-appropriate pants, skirts, or shorts. “It’s about teaching them the culture of the sport early on,” David explained. This emphasis on proper attire and conduct ensures that young golfers not only develop their skills but also learn respect for the game.
To support the program’s growth, Tori and David have launched a creative fundraising initiative called Chase the Ace, which will begin in January. Held every Tuesday evening at the Mountain Falls Grill Room, the event is a raffle-based game where participants buy tickets for $1 each. Half of the proceeds will go to the Junior Golf Program, and the other half will form a jackpot for the winner. “It’s a fun way to engage the community while raising money for the program,” David said. The excitement builds each week as participants hope to pull the Ace of Spades, with the jackpot growing until a winner is crowned.
The Junior Golf Program is already generating enthusiasm among local families, and Tori and David are optimistic about its potential to grow even further. By creating a program that is accessible, flexible, and grounded in the principles of golf, they aim to inspire a love for the sport in young players. “We’ve seen how small the high school teams have been in recent years, and we want to change that,” Tori said. “By starting kids young, we’re building a pipeline for the future of golf in Pahrump.”
With their combined expertise, passion, and dedication, Tori and David are not just revitalizing a program—they are sparking a new era of opportunity and growth for junior golf in Pahrump. Their efforts ensure that young players will not only learn the sport but also build valuable skills and memories that will last a lifetime. The future of junior golf in Pahrump is bright, and with Tori and David leading the way, it’s sure to shine even brighter.
For more information or to ask questions about the program, you can reach out to Pahrump Valley Junior Golf through their Facebook or Instagram pages. Tori and David are eager to connect with the community and answer any questions you may have.
