PGA of Australia Members receiving training at Barwon Heads G.C
Barwon Heads Golf Club on Victoria’s Bellarine Peninsula, played host to twenty Australian PGA Members on Thursday and Friday undertaking the PGA and Golf Australia Blind and Disabled Coach Accreditation, facilitated by PGA Member and National Inclusion Manager Christian Hamilton.
The two day coach accreditation not only looks at what skills and attributes an inclusive coach needs, but how to effectively build programs and sessions where participants feel included, comfortable and also challenged.
National Inclusion Manger Christian Hamilton talked about the importance of programs being flexible in design to allow everyone to participate.
“Our PGA members in attendance had the opportunity to plan out and run a session for 25 golfers with various physical and intellectual disabilities. They all did a fantastic job, making activities flexible enough to challenge participants at their own level also recognising everyone as individuals.” Hamilton said.
“Just as important is the role the club or facility plays in supporting new golfers to the game. We also discuss what an inclusive facility looks like and the importance of a whole club approach toward inclusion.” Hamilton added.
This year’s clinic participants had the added benefit of gaining access to the Oates Victorian Open next door at 13th Beach to end what was a great introduction to the game of golf for everyone.
Geoff Stewart, the General Manager of Education at the PGA was in attendance during the workshop.
“It is great to see our PGA Members undertaking this type of training. It will build on their already world class coaching skills and assist them in engaging further with the community. “
“This training will pave the way to introduce people to golf that may not otherwise have that opportunity.” Stewart added.
The PGA and Golf Australia see Blind and Disabled Coach Accreditation for PGA Members as an essential strategy for improving engagement in the sport of golf, growing the game and developing opportunities for people who may not otherwise have the chance to participate in golf activities.
A full list of accredited coaches and venues are displayed on the Golf Australia website at golf.org.au