Previous years’ Taskers Trophy funding has already benefited junior golf in Warwickshire by setting up the Beginners Hubs and allowing 14 new girls to get into golf in 2024. Extra funds have provided equipment and extended prize lists at Junior competitions to include new categories, recognizing players who are still new to the game and giving them something to aim for while being included. This has greatly benefited the girls over recent years.

Warwickshire County Girls have restructured their Junior County Coaching Program and introduced two “Young Bears” Beginners Hubs at Moor Hall Golf Club and Kenilworth Golf Club to attract more girls into golf. They are also negotiating to start another Beginners Hub before next year, ensuring that as many girls as possible are aware of the activities the county provides for junior girls throughout the year. Additionally, they run three stableford competitions for all levels of girl golfers, whether or not they have a handicap.

The Taskers Trophy funding will be spent on resources for the hubs and county coaching program, enabling more girls to attend and develop their skills in a structured program. This ensures that the coaching is effective. With rising costs, this funding is crucial for retaining and developing girl golfers of all ages and abilities within a pathway that aims for excellence. It will also allow them to continue providing golfing activities that offer training in life skills and leadership opportunities.

The measurable outcomes for success include the number of girls attracted, retained, and developed over the coming years. The Beginners Hubs, open to all girls aged 7-14 with or without a handicap, aim to feed into the Junior Coaching program, with players eventually progressing into the Elite squad. Success will also be measured by the number of girls attending, the involvement of parents, and the number of girls joining clubs or intending to.

Currently, two Beginners Hubs are in operation with a coaching schedule throughout the summer and winter months. The coaching will continue in 2025 at the two operational hubs, with plans to commission a further hub soon. This ongoing plan encourages new players to participate in competitions, improve their game, gain confidence, make new friendships, and have fun.

The county development objectives supported by this funding include keeping girls interested in golf, developing their game, and taking advantage of playing opportunities in a safe and fun environment. The hope is that some will go on to represent their county in Junior & Senior matches. The funding will also promote the benefits of golf in developing life skills, honesty, responsibility, independence, and work ethic.

Alison Nicholas, County Junior Organiser - Warwickshire Ladies County Golf Association