Golf has always prided itself as a sport that welcomes people from all backgrounds and provides opportunity for everyone, regardless of their ability, to play the game. And with the introduction of inclusion practices within golf over the years, the sport has seen many positive changes.
Many golf clubs and facilities now offer tailored coaching to people with a disability and these practices have helped position golf as an inclusive sport amongst the community.
The Victoria Park Golf Complex is the latest facility to embrace and commit to these practices by now offering an ‘All Abilities’ program supported by four accredited PGA All Abilities Coaches.
Victoria Park supports golfers of all abilities and provides flexibility on how people wish to participate, with access to the driving range, golf course and food and beverage areas.
Delivering the All Abilities Golf Coaching with Golf Australia’s and PGA Australia’s endorsement, means Victoria Park can offer all golfers a tailored coaching session suited to their ability. Victoria Park’s Golf Program Officer, Virginia Irwin, has been instrumental in establishing this program at the facility.
“We are so excited to offer the Special Olympics Coaching Program at Victoria Park,” Ms Irwin said. “It is an 8 week program to suit both beginners and experienced golfers. Our program will help golfers with a disability become more skilled and confident on-course.”
The PGA Professionals are accredited coaches under the PGA Blind & Disabled Golf Coach Accreditation, ensuring both the facility and coaching programs offered are accessible for people with physical or intellectual disability. Lesson plans are designed to guarantee a robust and meaningful educational experience for all participants.
Victoria Park Golf Complex is committed to include these vital programs with the aim of creating an inclusive environment in the wider community. The sport of golf plays an important role in the lives of many people with disability, delivering physical and psychological benefits and sense of community, a fundamental key for overall health and quality of life.
To find out how you can get involved with Victoria Park’s program please download the the Beginner's Program flyer (PDF, 1 MB) or the Experienced Golfer's Program flyer (PDF, 1.4 MB).
To find out how to get your club involved and find out about PGA All Abilities, please visit – golf.org.au/pga-inclusive-coaching.