There’s going to be plenty of changes
at Horsham Golf Club over the next few years, but one thing that is
likely to stay constant is the club’s commitment to junior golf. The
club has received the GolfMark award, a national scheme that
identifies and recognises junior and beginner friendly golf facilities.
In applying for the Award, clubs are
assessed on its coaching and playing provision, the environment of the
club and child protection and duty of care. Horsham Golf Club came
through with flying colours.
The Club has a reputation as an
excellent place for young players to develop their game, with good
prices on a nine-hole course, and even though an ambitious expansion
plan will soon begin – including a new 18 hole golf course, in addition
to the newly opened sheltered driving range, co-owner Neil Burke said
that the junior programme will remain a focus of the Club.
He said “Golf is a great game
for youngsters, as it has so many benefits. It teaches life skills,
such as respect and discipline, and gets youngsters outdoors. It’s also
good for parents, as they know that here their children are in a safe
environment. We have a
fantastic record with training young golfers through a number of schemes
– one of the best in the country in fact and we’ve very proud of that.”
Jonathan Shipstone, head teaching
professional, added “We’ve also been liaising with local schools
through the Try-Golf Programme, providing free coaching, and if they
like golf they can then come here.”