Date: June 12, 2018
Author: MyGolf

Focus on fun rewarded at Kew

“Our aim is for juniors to have fun,” were the first words of Kew Golf Club MyGolf deliverer Narelle Anderson after being presented with the MyGolf centre of the month award for May 2018.

The program began with 16 juniors in October 2017 and has grown to 40 participants in the eight months since it became a registered and active MyGolf centre.

“We find that junior golfers want to play the game for real, so we set up a program that focused on achieving goals from tee to green,” explained Anderson.

Throughout the program at Kew Golf Club, which is situated east of Melbourne along the Yarra River, juniors learn the fundamentals of golf then graduate to an on-course program.

Beginner groups learn the fundamentals through weekly lessons focused on putting, chipping, pitching and long game, before building knowledge through the on-course program.

On-course experiences begin on a modified 50m course, with progression to 75m and on to the advanced program at 150m.

They also achieve a series of goals within their groups, in areas such as etiquette, speed of play, rules and course.

“We are trying to create a clear pathway for the junior golfer to maximise their ability,” said Anderson.

Once the junior program is completed, they are offered a cadet membership. Eight juniors had the opportunity to apply for the cadetship this term.

“This membership allows them to have more access to on-course golf and lessons, coupled with gaining a handicap.”

Narelle makes sure that communication with parents is constant throughout the program. A fortnightly newsletter is distributed to both juniors and parents, which provides an overview of the lessons and highlights outstanding achievements.

A report is also sent to the parents at the end of the term to give an overview of everyone’s achievements, whilst parents are encouraged to walk the fairways alongside the juniors each week.

“My favourite parts of the program are the friendships, laughter, fun and rewards,” Anderson said.

“Over the years I have seen many of my juniors grow to become successful adults and lifelong friends.”

Head Professional, Simon Angliss, also acknowledges the fine work Narelle has done for juniors at the golf club.

"We work very closely with Narelle and PGA Professional, Michael Light, who do a brilliant job delivering our MyGolf program.

"We have strong connections with local schools and are committed to growing the program and ensuring our juniors have a viable pathway into regular play, membership and beyond."

If you would like to enrol to a Kew MyGolf program, or a MyGolf program in your area, please visit mygolf.org.au and enter your postcode today.

For any enquiries please contact mygolf@golf.org.au.

Congratulations again to Kew Golf Club on your achievement, MyGolf are looking forward to seeing your programs and participants progress.

The MyGolf Team