Golf Australia reinforced support for young elite golfers, with the introduction of an Elite Development Panel to direct recommendations made by the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) in its high performance review. The panel brings together nine of Australia&aposs finest sporting minds who share a combined vision of turning our elite athletes into world champions. Peter Knight, Director of Elite Development at Golf Australia said, “To continue producing world-class golfers, Australia needs the collective input from an expert group of people to oversee the implementation of the high performance review set by the ASC. “The Elite Development Panel is made up of leaders from golf and other sports-related fields who will set directions for our elite athletes, creating pathways for them to go on and achieve greater things. Golf Australia, along with the ASC has created this panel to ensure the high performance review is applied to give our young golfers the best chance of success on the international and professional stage. “Ideas and recommendations to come from such a panel will also be used with younger developing players and their coaching programs,” Knight added. The review was drawn up in early 2007 and analysed Australia&aposs elite golf program, putting forth recommendations on how to develop pathways from junior golf through to professional ranks. The Elite Development Panel will meet three times annually to assess and if necessary, alter processes to ensure Australia continues its charge as an international golfing force. Renowned golf coach Steven Bann will Chair the panel which also includes Mark Holland who has been named AIS golf Head Coach under the newly-structured venture between Golf Australia and the AIS. Holland will head the program which is designed to assist athletes in competing successfully overseas as well as preparing them for careers as professional golfers. Elite Development Panel Steven Bann – Chairman Phil Ayres – PGA – General Manager of Member Business & Services Michael Clayton – former tour player and golf course architect Jackie Fairweather – Australian Sports Commission – Senior Sports Consultant Mark Holland – AIS golf Head Coach Peter Knight – Golf Australia – Director of Elite Development Vern McMillan – Sports physiologist Paul Penna – Sports psychologist Ian Triggs – National women&aposs coach
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