Russell proves that home is where the heart is

Freddie Russell discovered that home really is where the heart is when he transferred back to the UK from South Carolina to complete his degree studies.

Essendon’s Russell, now 24 and training to become a PGA Professional, moved back to Hertfordshire four years ago so that he could play more golf and work towards his dream of turning pro.

The next step in that journey will be the £32,500 Galvin Green PGA Assistants’ Championship grand final at Coventry Golf Club on August 5-7.

Russell qualified for the event, which boasts Peter Alliss and Tony Jacklin among its past champions, through a regional event at Haverhill earlier this year.

As a year one assistant this is the first time he has been eligible to play in the event.

But Russell is confident he can compete in a tournament which pre-dates the US Masters by four years, having first been held in 1930.

“I’m still at the stage in my career where playing is my main focus,” he admitted.

“I’ve been trying to play as much as I can around my studies and the time that I’m spending working at the club.

“This year I’ve stayed local mainly and just tried to get as much playing time behind me as possible – next year I’d like to have a go on the Europro Tour.

“But right now the focus is on this event. I need to make sure I keep bogeys off my card and I don’t make any silly mistakes.

“I’ve not set myself a target as such, I’m just going to go out there and give it everything I’ve got.”

On his return to the UK, Russell remained pragmatic.

“I just wanted to be playing as much golf as I could, and coming back to the UK has allowed me to do that,” he explained.

“I enjoyed the experience of living over in the States, but I’m also now enjoying my new role at Essendon.

“It’s a great place to work and they’ve allowed me to be really hands on with the coaching, while still keeping the playing side of things as a key part of what I’m doing.”

Other players from the East of England competing in the final include: George Howard (Brampton Park), Kris Keeley (South Essex), David Griffiths (Oxhey Park), Thomas Obergan (Berkhamsted), James Mynott (St Ives) and Tyler Wink (Canons Brook).