There are myriad reasons for you to introduce your child to golf. Not only is it outdoor exercise, it's a sport that requires discipline and concentration, but it's a great bonding ritual for parent and child. Aside from that, there's yet another reason to get your kid golfing:

You will never get herpes playing golf. At least if you do it even close to correctly.

Sadly, as some young Minnesotans have learned, the sport of wrestling can't make that same promise.

From a recent Associated Press article:

The Minnesota State High School League banned competitions and direct contact between wrestlers in practice until Feb. 6 after 24 cases of herpes gladiatorum were reported by 10 teams. The virus is spread by skin-to-skin contact, and symptoms include lesions on the face, head and neck.

"I think it's a bold step," said Owatonna High School wrestling coach Scot Davis. "How else are you going to get this thing cleared up? How do I explain to a mom that her kid has herpes forever?"

FYI: There has never been a high school golf coach that has had to tell a mom that their kid got herpes forever while golfing.

Also, South Dakota wrestling programs have been put on alert as well to keep an eye out for the spreading of herpes.

Just a little something to remember for when you're trying to find a sport your child will enjoy. Choose golf: It's fun, it's a bonding ritual, and it won't give you an ugly STD.

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