Stanedge Golf Club recognised for junior initiatives

Stanedge Golf Club has become the latest Derbyshire facility to achieve GolfMark accreditation on the back of its initiatives to get more youngsters playing the game.

For the second year running, the club is providing free membership to juniors up to the age of 18, in the hope that they will be encouraged to pick up the game and continue playing it into their adult life.

The club’s secretary, Ken Ferguson (above far left), said: “Stanedge Golf Club are fully committed to developing Junior Golf in the Chesterfield area, reflecting the enthusiastic and inclusive approach shown by our dedicated team.

“Derek Cooper has supported the juniors for 24 years and now Phil Bradley, our new Junior Organiser (above far right), has come in and been instrumental in encouraging young golfers of all ages to take up and enjoy the game by organising coaching, matches, competitions and fun events.

“Derek and Phil have been supported by PGA Professional Ricky Carvell who has been heavily involved in delivering coaching programmes at the club.”

Nigel Furniss, Development Officer for the Derbyshire Golf Partnership, added: “Derbyshire Golf would like to congratulate Stanedge Golf Club, and in particular their Junior Organiser Phil Bradley, on being awarded GolfMark.

“This demonstrates the club's commitment to encouraging junior golf and creating opportunities for people to participate and enjoy the game of golf. All those involved in reaching this achievement deserve a vote of thanks.”

England Golf developed the GolfMark award to identify and acknowledge golf facilities in England that were junior and beginner friendly

The GolfMark award also integrates Sport England’s Clubmark award - a national standard for quality sports clubs recognised across the country.  More than 30 other sports, including tennis and rugby are also using the alliance to add value to their accreditation schemes and over 10,000 sports clubs have been awarded Clubmark or are working towards achieving accreditation.

Further information on GolfMark and a list of all GolfMark clubs can be found on the GolfMark website, www.golfmark.org, or by contacting England Golf.