For the first time in history Newcastle Golf Club will host a Junior Open Tournament
Rated 17th in Australia by Australian Golf Digest the Newcastle course has never held a junior tournament since it established in 1906.
The tournament will be an integral part of the junior development, growth and support program being put in place by the clubs Captain Michael Coughlan, Club PGA Member Mark Gilson and General Manager Paul Foulcher.
Working closely with JNJG Territory Manger Mark Ingrey the club is committed to developing a long-term strategy that will support junior golfers and the club's future.
Steps are being put in place that will allow clear pathways of development for the juniors. Steps so far include weekly clinics, access to the golf course, further development with Jason Laws Academy, MyGolf programs and club membership.
“Having a committed group of people all looking to achieve the same outcome is a pleasure to work with. I see this move as “less is more.”
We have one of Australia’s leading golf facilities and golf coach inside the same fence. Coupled with passionate members and long-term vision it’s certain to succeed,” said Mark Ingrey.
The installment of the Junior Open will be the first step in establishing the growth plan. More initiatives will be added and adjusted to ensure the juniors are encouraged to grow on and off the course.
The first Newcastle Junior Open will be played January 17th 2016 perfectly placed the day prior to the Encourage Shield State Finals run by Jack Newton Junior Golf. "We expect a good turn out from Encourage Shield players and hope that our local juniors will also participate. This will provide a good foundation for the event while out of region juniors will grow our field," said Mark Gilson.