Golf Australia and the PGA of Australia have signed an historic joint venture agreement that will boost the landscape of junior golf development in Australia.
Under the agreement, the PGA and Golf Australia will endorse and promote a single junior development program, MyGolf – as the nationally recognised junior golf program that will act as the main driver of junior participation in Australia.
Representatives from Golf Australia and the PGA of Australia will administer the agreement with former AFL General Manager of Operations and interim Cycling Australia chief executive Adrian Anderson taking on the role of independent chairman.
Previously, both the PGA and Golf Australia promoted and delivered separate junior development programs.
The joint venture was created in an effort to both unite the Australian golfing industry under one brand and reduce duplication in introducing Australian juniors to golf.
Golf Australia CEO Stephen Pitt said the agreement was a historic step forward for the sport.
‘This agreement is designed to make things easier for children who want to make their start in golf. This joint venture sends a clear message to the industry that the peak bodies are working together to grow the sport and introduce as many children to golf as possible.
Together with the PGA of Australia, I am delighted to see us unite under one junior participation program to promote junior development growth across Australia.’
PGA of Australia Chief Executive Brian Thorburn added, “Our game is in great shape at the moment and what our industry now needs is collaboration and cohesion.”
“This agreement will see PGA Professionals, clubs, schools and community coaches working together under a united banner and in time will ensure that golf competes with some of Australia’s most popular junior participation programs.”
New independent chairman Adrian Anderson said, “This is a very positive step for the future of junior golf in Australia. This level of cooperation between the peak bodies enhances the program and gives children and families a clear picture of the junior golf opportunities available to them. I’m looking forward to working with Golf Australia and the PGA of Australia as they enter this new stage of the program.”
The new-look MyGolf program will launch in the coming months.