Caddie opportunities grow at historic public golf course in New Jersey
GLENVIEW, Ill. – The Western Golf Association/Evans Scholars Foundation is working with the Essex County Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs to create new youth caddie opportunities at Weequahic Golf Course in Newark, New Jersey.
A small group of students have begun caddying at Weequahic this year, gaining hands-on experience at one of New Jersey’s most historic public golf courses. The program is part of a broader effort by the WGA to provide young men and women with access to caddying, helping them build valuable life skills, gain financial independence and connect with successful professionals and community leaders.
The WGA oversees the Evans Scholars Foundation, which awards full tuition and housing college scholarships to promising young caddies who have financial need. High-achieving caddies in New Jersey also have the opportunity to apply for the NJ Golf Evans Scholarship.
The effort builds on the WGA/ESF’s growing presence in New Jersey, where Evans Scholars attend Rutgers University, one of the Program’s 28 partner universities nationwide. The BMW Championship, a PGA TOUR FedExCup Playoff event that benefits the Evans Scholars Foundation, also will be held in New Jersey next year.
“These students have been selected from the local community because of their academic commitment, character and work ethic,” said Brian Bianchi, Vice President of Caddie Development for the WGA/ESF. “We’re excited to work with Essex County and Weequahic Golf Course to create new opportunities for students in the Newark community, helping them gain valuable work experience, connect with positive mentors and learn about scholarship opportunities that can change the trajectory of their lives.”
Launched in early May, the youth caddie program will continue through early fall, with the 8 and 8:12 a.m. tee times on most Saturdays and Sundays at Weequahic Golf Course designated as youth caddie tee times. Each player in these groups will be assigned a youth caddie for the round. Base caddie fees will be covered by the WGA, and players are encouraged to offer a gratuity of $10 to $20 per caddie for good service.
Youth caddies at Weequahic will support golfers throughout the round by carrying bags, keeping clubs clean, spotting golf balls, providing basic yardage information and assisting with course maintenance, including raking bunkers, replacing divots and repairing ball marks.
“Weequahic Golf Course has always been an important part of the Newark golf community, and this youth caddie program adds another meaningful dimension to the experience we offer here,” said Tim Christ, Director of Golf Operations for Essex County. “These young caddies will have the opportunity to learn the game, build confidence and develop important life skills, while golfers will be able to support local students and enjoy the tradition of caddying during their round.”
Originally designed by George Lowe, then the head professional at Baltusrol Golf Club, Weequahic Golf Course first opened for play in 1914 and is the oldest public golf course in New Jersey. Following a comprehensive renovation by Stephen Kay, Weequahic reopened in summer 2025 with rebuilt greens, tees, bunkers and a refined routing that enhances playability while preserving the course’s historic character.
Set within Weequahic Park along the shoreline of its 200-acre lake, the course offers a welcoming and engaging experience for golfers of all skill levels. The revitalized layout blends historic character with improved playing conditions, creating an ideal setting for young caddies to learn the game and serve the local golf community.