The kids are all right at Stoke Park

Top Buckinghamshire club Stoke Park’s plans to unearth the  stars of tomorrow is well underway after starting a Junior Golf Scholarship scheme for talented youngsters aged 9 – 16.

Open to all,  a “Try-Out Day” was staged where 50 talented juniors from the region pitted their skills against each other in an X-Factor style audition. The best 16 were then interviewed and a final cast of 12 (4 girls and 8 boys) between the ages of 9 and 15 were chosen to be part of a unique pathway of development.

“It was important that we not only chose the most talented players (pictured above) but juniors who had the right personal attributes to be ambassadors for Stoke Park and who the members would be proud of,” commented Head of Instruction, Stuart Rank.

After selection, the yearly programme led by Stuart Rank and supported by James Jewell which includes one group class and one individual lesson per month.

Alongside this, physical screenings are delivered in the gym, through the Titleist Performance Institute (TPI) and golf-specific fitness programmes are tailored to each junior.

Each child has a Scholars’ golf bag and uniform which they wear with pride whenever representing the club or playing in club events. Results have been fantastic across the board with many of the juniors reducing their handicaps significantly (John Gough for example 6 down to 2), representing the club teams, the county, winning at county and even European level.

‘It’s only been through the club’s vision and generosity that we’ve been able to deliver such a comprehensive syllabus which will one day produce a star of the future, home grown at Stoke Park.’ added Stuart.

This initiative comes directly from Stoke Park’s members, who are keen to nurture golf talent for the future. The members are personally funding half the scholarship programme, with Stoke Park matching any contribution they make.

The scholarships offer a fantastic opportunity for young golfers to develop their game by taking advantage not only of the prestigious course but also of the world class practice facilities Stoke Park that has worked hard to develop.

Stoke Park’s next X Factor Style, ‘Try Out’ day is scheduled for Saturday 5th October 2013.

*To take part contact Stuart Rank on 01753 71 71 84 or srank@stokepark.com