Manitoba Golf Guide

02 GOLF GUIDE 2023 M A N I T O B A Golf Manitoba Going Full Throttle with Junior Golf Programs By Todd Lewys W hile the pandemic saw many new and lapsed golfers return to the game in the past few years, the future of the game resides resoundingly with junior golfers. Knowing this, Golf Manitoba has dedicated itself to introducing as many junior-aged golfers to the game as they can through a variety of programs. The first program is the Golf in Schools program, says Golf Manitoba's executive director, Jared Ladobruk. "The program is in partnership with the First Tee Canada," he says, noting that approximately 7,000 kids went through the program in 2022. "It's designed to offer elementary-age students the opportunity to develop a skill set and have experiences that will encourage and support their participation in golf." Over the spring and summer, certified PGA of Canada community coach instructors will visit schools to introduce youngsters to the game. "They will provide a basic introduction to the game, showing them how to hold the club and hit the ball in both outdoor and indoor settings," Ladobruk says. "Equipment kits feature oversized clubs that will work for kids of all shapes and sizes. The clubs are lightweight and colourful, and the golf balls are about the size of a tennis ball to make them easy to hit." The intent of the program is simple, he adds. "Of course, it represents an opportunity to show kids what the game is about over the course of a two-hour session. It's also part of physical literacy. The lessons give students a fun and educational experience through the sport of golf while developing movement concepts and skills. We also offer mobile clinics for kids aged five and up at community clubs and courses without a PGA of Canada pro." Continued on Page 03

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