Catch the Spirit began in 1991 as an effort to attract more youth and families to the game of golf and USGA Championships. The goal of the program is to provide exposure to the game - its rich history, heroes and lessons - to a new generation of golfers. Several unique components of the program allow juniors to learn about the game of golf and enjoy its traditions through special events and educational opportunities at USGA Championships. The program strives to make these experiences educational, interactive, and fun in order to ensure the game's traditions and spirit are passed on to each junior spectator.

As part of the Catch the Spirit program during the U.S. Women's Open and U.S. Senior Open, juniors ages 17 and under receive complimentary admission when accompanied by a ticketed adult. Typically, a junior-friendly tent is open for the duration of these championships where kids receive USGA publications, a complimentary lunch voucher and a Catch the Spirit cap among other items. Additionally, juniors have the opportunity to participate in an array of activities, including course tours, scavenger hunts, and practice swing stations. At the U.S. Open, and a handful of Amateur Championships each year, participants and chaperones from USGA-supported programs and other social service agencies are invited to attend a Catch the Spirit Junior Day. Typically, the day consists of course tours, exhibitions by trick-shot artists, a golf clinic, and presentations by USGA staff.

Catch the Spirit is supported by the Regional Affairs Committee, the Regional Directors, and the Grants and Fellowship Department. In 2008, a record-setting 19,000 juniors participated in Catch the Spirit events during the championship season.