Golf provides individuals with autism an opportunity to develop focus, patience, and coordination through a structured yet flexible environment. The sport encourages independence, goal-setting, and self-paced progress, helping participants build confidence while enjoying meaningful recreational experiences. 

Through golf, individuals can strengthen communication, motor planning, and emotional regulation skills, while also engaging in social interactions that foster connection and a sense of belonging within the community. 

Program Overview

The Ernie Els #GameON Autism Golf program is infused with evidence-based practices for teaching golf to people with autism. 

Participants learn golf skills while practicing specific autism learning concepts, including communication, emotional regulation, motor, and social skills. 

The goal of the program is for participants to achieve their individual golf successes and to build confidence and self-esteem in a fun, welcoming, and supportive environment. 

Program Structure

The Ernie Els #GameON Autism Golf program consists of 12 group lessons, each of which has a specially designed lesson plan that delivers comprehensive golf instruction and incorporates autism-focused learning concepts, specifically referred to in each lesson as the “autism learning concept.” It is a comprehensive program for individuals with autism which utilizes multiple evidence-based practices identified by the National Clearinghouse on Autism Evidence and Practice (Steinbrenner, et al., 2020).

How to Become an Official Program Provider

Would you like to bring the Ernie Els #GameON Autism Golf Program to your community? Individuals can become an Official Program Provider (OPP) through a structured training and certification process in this and other sports. For more information and/or to become an Official Program Provider, contact: sports@elsforautism.org.