My Philosophy on Junior Golf

I feel that as a sport PGA Professionals have a huge responsibility to grow the game. Unfortunately, in most golf clubs the children cannot join the club until they are 10 or over. Imagine telling a child they can't play football until they are 10!!! As a qualified TPI (Titleist Performance Institute) Level 1 and 2 Junior Coach, I run programmes designed to create better athletes and more mobile and active juniors. Our Junior Section at Blainroe is thriving due to designed programmes and coaching structures.

 I believe a different approach is essential to grow the game. I set up an After Schools Programme in 2011 and it has developed into one of the most active junior golf programmes in the country. From September-May, myself and my staff coach over 140 juniors per week from the age of 6-12. My philosophy is to start the children as young as possible so that when they are 10 and able to join a club they are very capable of playing golf to a level they can enjoy and grow from. This in turn has lead their parents to join the club and creates a family atmosphere within the club. If we can start the juniors young enough, it enables us to keep children playing golf for longer.

When they join the club, it has lead to high participation and success in Leinster & National titles. This creates a very positive and fun golfing environment.