After proudly completing their Academy coaching programme in the face of Covid-19, the Offaly Junior Golf Academy will host its first summer junior tournament on Monday, August 10th.
Comprised of junior members from Tullamore, Edenderry, Esker Hills and Birr golf clubs, the momentum for the Academy was a consequence of a certain Major Champion from the Faithful County whose success triggered local businesspeople and professionals to come together and create a program aiming to get kids into golf for life.
Despite the disrupted schedule this term, the appetite for the Academy remained strong with coaches Bernard Quigley, Eamonn O’Flanagan and Corey Doherty conducting a thoroughly engaging programme for all participants.
Having launched in February, the Academy remains in its infancy but eager to continue this wave of momentum for the county, more good news has followed with the announcement of the inaugural summer junior trophy.
Set for Tullamore Golf Club on August 10th, juniors between the ages of 8-18, boys and girls, who are members of Tullamore, Edenderry, Esker Hills and Birr golf clubs are invited to take part.
Unsurprisingly, the response has been immediate with 60 players already signed up but plenty of spots remain. It’s hoped that over 100 will sign up for the day boasting an action-packed itinerary filled with fun and laughter.
“We’re really excited to be able to bring this event to Offaly,” said Brian Monaghan, Chairperson of the OJGA.
“The response to everything we’ve tried to do since our launch in February has been incredible and despite all the obvious challenges, we managed to complete our programme this year.
“None of this would be possible of course without the support we receive from our Offaly County Council Sports Partnership. Together, we’re trying to drive inclusivity in the sport, starting from the ground up.
“We’ve been particularly delighted to see so many talented girls get involved with the Academy so far and we hope to see many more take part as we look to promote the 20×20 vision of increasing female participation in sport through our efforts in golf.”
The Offaly Junior Golf Academy structure is unique in that it’s targeting juniors who may have never been assessed before; those with a talent who would’ve otherwise slipped through the net.
No other county has adopted such a system in Ireland to date and although the programme is only months old, early signs are that it could yet prove a model for other counties to follow.
The inaugural Offaly Junior Golf Academy Summer Trophy takes place on Monday, August 10th.
To book, contact the pro shop at Tullamore Golf Club on 057 93 21439 and register your name, golf club, and email address.
We look forward to seeing you all on August 10!
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