Date: January 03, 2013
Author:

Tying the “Nott” with schools

Sharon Nott, a representative from Jack Newton Junior Golf (JNJG), attended the Western area annual Teachers and Friends Golf Day held at Duntryleague Golf Course on Sunday, 16th December. The day was organised by Jo Kingham from James Sheahan High School who undertook a JNJG Teacher Golf Training day earlier in the year. Jo has successfully introduced golf into her PE class, linking her students with Wentworth Golf Club in Orange. Although very much a social hit amongst teachers and club members, the aim was also to promote JNJG Junior programs at schools, particularly the MYGolf Program; to let teachers know about the resources and support available from JNJG; and to form links between the schools and clubs. The day was well supported by teachers and their friends with over 60 entrants from 11 different schools competing. Special mention went to Louise Topalov, a teacher at Bourke Primary School, who travelled to Orange especially for the day. Information on the JNJG programs was well received by the teachers assembled. It wasn&apost difficult for everyone to enjoy themselves – with great company, great food, and great prizes! “JNJG is very open in trying to encourage juniors to play. It is a challenge, however if someone is keen to offer guidance JNJG are more than happy to help in whatever way…I am more than happy to help out to try and get schools and clubs working closer together in the promotion of junior golf,” said Sharon. “Golf is a game for life, and also the game of life. Golf is rich in tradition and is based on personal integrity. We are providing a great opportunity for teachers and juniors to participate in the game.” The program is sure to grow as a result of Sharon&aposs enthusiasm and commitment. Attendees from the James Sheahan Catholic High School are already spreading the word, which is a great start. The Duntryleague Course was picturesque as usual and was well appreciated by the players. Despite rather warm conditions and the wind picking up later in the day some good scores were recorded: Winner of the Wayne Pearce Memorial Trophy for the stableford event was Tom Brice from James Sheahan Catholic High School with 38 points. In second place was David Mellier with 37 points on a countback from Tim Jennings, who also finished on 37 points. In the men&aposs scratch event, Matt French from St Josephs in Manildra took out first place, from Maurie Ryan with David Maher in third place. In the ladies stableford event Maria Crawford won with 40 points, closely followed by Tania Rusden (39 points) and Pam Evans (38 points c/b). The day also catered for social golfers with nine hole events. Congratulations to Greg Wiencke who took out this event in the men&aposs section and Mary Russell who won the ladies. The day wrapped up with the attendees thanking staff at Duntryleague for their assistance with the event and to sponsors, Teachers Mutual Bank and Jack Newton Junior Golf for their support. Contact Sharon Nott at email: nottsharon@hotmail.com if you would like to get involved with a junior golf program; or visit www.jnjg.com.au