Joel Dahmen might be a PGA Tour winner and a hell of a lot better than any of us at golf, but there’s a reason his “Full Swing” episode immediately became a fan favourite: he’s one of us who just so happens to be able to compete in majors. With a son of his own and a second kid on the way, Dahmen is already thinking about how he can save some money if they ever get into golf. There’s nothing more relatable than that. You gotta think ahead!
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While answering random questions while “flying the plane” with Mark Hubbard, Dahmen was asked about the best way to get young golfers into the competitive junior circuit. That’s when he delivered one of the best ideas we’ve heard in a long time. Stay away from those $500 tournament fees for as long as possible. Baby formula isn’t cheap.
Find the course where the latest junior tournament was played, and book a tee time late in the day after everyone leaves. Play golf with your son/daughter from the tournament yardage and see how you stack up. Pins will be the same, distance the same, bring up the leaderboard… https://t.co/TePTk4uwxE
— Joel Dahmen (@Joel_Dahmen) August 4, 2025
“Find the course where the latest junior tournament was played, and book a tee-time late in the day after everyone leaves,” Dahmen explains. “Play golf with your son/daughter from the tournament yardage and see how you stack up. Pins will be the same, distance the same, bring up the leaderboard after the round to see how you and your child stack up against the junior field… it’s like playing a tournament for twilight golf fees instead of $500 tournament entry.”
One commenter called this a “galaxy brain” idea, and another compared it to “sneaking onto the course during the member-guest” tournament. Which is a great way to get your kid invested in the sport without emptying your wallet and getting them in stressful situations earlier than they need to be. You can also get a feel of their talent level in a more relaxed environment. It’s a win for everyone.
Dahmen answered a few other important questions – what he’s up to before the PGA Tour’s “Fall” season, potential TPC Scottsdale plans and where to put your glove – but this junior tournament tee-time life hack is the clear winner… and something to jot down for later.
Somehow, cementing his spot in the FedEx Cup’s top 100 isn’t the most important thing Dahmen has done in the past few days. When the next PGA Tour season comes around again, Dahmen is going to get a lot of handshakes from thankful parents grateful for this “galaxy brain” idea.
