R&A grant boost for PGA

There was some great news for the Professional Golfers’ Association as they have a chance to expand and improve its acclaimed training programmes thanks to a grant of almost £500,000 from The R&A, the sport’s governing body.

The R&A, which ploughs millions into promoting and growing the game worldwide, has given further evidence of its commitment to the game by supporting The PGA in its training of modern-day professionals.

The PGA has more than 7,500 members working in more than 60 countries and each year around 250 new graduates qualify through a three-year Foundation Degree in Professional Golf Studies.

Its training programmes include two successful degree courses, several further education opportunities including a director of golf option plus a continuous professional development scheme.

At the heart of its education and training programmes is a commitment to the latest advances in sports-science, technology, equipment, coaching techniques, business and marketing – all designed to equip the degree-educated young professionals with the skills to grow and promote the game in a range of roles across the golf industry.

The latest funding will also assist the PGA in nurturing a network of volunteer coaches across the UK and helping grow the game through schemes such as the England Golf Partnership, clubgolf Scotland, Golf Development Wales and Junior Golf Ireland.

“The continued support from the R&A is invaluable in helping the PGA training and education programme sustain its reputation as one of the most respected across the world,” said Dr Kyle Phillpots, PGA director of education and training.

“We’re indebted to the R&A for their support and backing which ensures our members are well qualified to assist the R&A in their ambitions to grow the game throughout the world.”

The R&A is golf's governing body and organiser of The Open Championship and through the Championship’s success is able to invest an annual surplus through The R&A Foundation into grass roots development projects around the world.

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