The PGA becomes sponsor for England Golf Awards

The PGA has agreed to sponsor the prestigious Coach of the Year accolade at the 2018 England Golf Awards.

The Awards were first held last year and recognise coaches and organisations who work to improve the sport’s future.

Coach of the Year aims to identify a PGA Professional whose passion and commitment helps grow the game.

Nominees had to demonstrate how they inspire new players, support existing golfers and realise the ambitions and potential of promising talent. Coaches also had to show how they have developed their own skills, as well as new ideas and initiatives.

Last year both Ben Knight (Chartham Park Golf Club) and James Verrall (Haywards Heath Golf Club) won the Club Coach of the Year accolade.

“The PGA is delighted to sponsor England Golf’s Coach of the Year award, especially as many of our Members play key roles in teaching the game to golfers of all abilities,” said Robert Maxfield, chief executive of The PGA.

“These include beginners, enthusiastic club members looking to improve, as well as Ryder Cup stars, many of whom are coached by PGA Professionals.”

American Golf, Bridgestone, Derek Burridge Trophies, HowDidiDo, Players 1st, Sports Marketing Surveys Inc and The Golf Foundation are also sponsoring awards.

England Golf chief executive, Nick Pink, added: “We are thrilled to be joined by these sponsors whose support is hugely valued and adds enormously to the prestige of the England Golf Awards. 

“We have had a tremendous response to our request for nominations for the Awards and we are looking forward to a great night when we hear the inspirational stories of our finalists and applaud our winners.” 

The Awards will be celebrated at a glitzy ceremony at London’s Royal Lancaster Hotel on Thursday, 22 February 2018.

Tickets for the black-tie gala dinner cost £85 per person and include drinks on arrival and a three course meal with half a bottle of wine. For more information about the Englsnd Golf Award and for list of categories and sponsors click here.