National scheme encourages record numbers of young to play golf

The number of juniors taking up golf in Shetland is at an all time high as a result of the national junior programme ClubGolf.

Last year sportscotland’s active schools network worked with the isles’ PE and teaching staff to introduce 230 primary five pupils to the sport. This year over 80 juniors participated in ClubGolf coaching at golf clubs, contributing to a national statistic of over 12,000 children in coaching programmes at 311 clubs.

To meet the growing demand in 2012 at least eight new volunteer coaches will be needed in Shetland to maintain appropriate coach to junior ratios.

Local clubs also need more helpers to assist with their juniors learning the game, to assist coaches delivering skill sessions and supervise juniors as they play on the course. Non-golfing parents are said to be ideal for the role.

Regional manager Willie MacKay said: “Our volunteer coaching workforce is the grassroots that ClubGolf development at clubs depend on. With 12,675 juniors participating in ClubGolf coaching Scotland does not have enough PGA professionals. Volunteer coaches provide a vital role in coaching juniors who have played the introductory game at school want to progress to club coaching.”

The next PGA Level 1 course in Shetland takes place on Saturday 5th and Sunday 6th May.

The PGA has a closing date for applications six weeks in advance of the course. Those interested should contact their golf club in good time.

To find out more either contact your golf club’s junior convener or ClubGolf co-ordinator or view the 2012 coach education calendar at www.clubgolfscotland.com.