Geelong Golf Club’s Junior Pennant Season for 2023 has been a great success, with both Junior teams securing first and second placings, taking out the South Western Golf Association Championship. Sixteen players, aged nine to 19, were led by senior golfers Max and Emma, securing the championship for Geelong Golf Club.

The Junior Pennant season is more than just a series of matches and is a great opportunity for young golfers to hone their abilities, build essential skills in sportsmanship, and foster camaraderie among their peers. This structured competition by the South Western Golf Association provides a platform for juniors to showcase their talents, and encourages them to push their boundaries and strive for excellence on the golf course.

“Geelong Golf Club has two Junior Pennant teams with our youngest player, just nine years of age,” said Paul Christie, Venue Manager and PGA Professional. “For the 2023 season, we wanted to ensure our young golfers had the opportunity to compete in what can be a very competitive field of young golfers.

“To support this, our first-time pennant players wore a lighter shade of blue in the team polo shirts. This contrasted to our more experienced players on the team and supported our learner system whereby competing teams could recognise first-time pennant players easily and provide support if needed.”

Storm Ord, PGA Professional of Geelong Golf Club, said, “Our junior pennant team are a great group of eager and keen players. Through training, juniors learn the importance of consistent practice, strategy, and mental resilience. The competitive environment of junior pennant teaches each player to manage pressure, make strategic decisions, and adapt to challenges.”

Through victories and defeats, Geelong Golf Club’s junior pennant teams develop lasting friendships and connections that create a supportive network. “With the support of our team mentors Mark Filipowocz and Ross Virty, who are members of the club, extend the support network of the players beyond the team itself,” continued Paul.

“At Geelong Golf Club, we ensure each of our junior players can experience what it means to be a part of a team and the club as a whole. They can access PGA Professional and members who are always on hand to lend additional tips and guidance to improve play.”

“As the teams compete against players from other clubs throughout the year, they can experience the sport’s highs and lows. It also provides exposure to different courses and competitive golf’s possibilities,” added Storm.

“Geelong Golf Club’s Junior Pennant Season for 2023 has been an exciting year,” continued Paul. “Not only did the teams win the Trevenan and Westerveld Shield matches, but the grand final event was Geelong Team A versus Geelong Team B at Geelong Golf Club. With close matches played each week, it was exciting to have both our teams play in the final match. Our Team A Westerveld Shield winners were challenged all the way with the final match going to the playoff hole to determine the winner and a final result of 4/3.

“Securing the championship for 2023 has built a great sense of community at Geelong Golf Club and showcases the talent our juniors have on the fairways. We are looking forward to the 2024 season with more junior players vying for a spot in the teams,” Paul concluded.

For more information on Geelong Golf Club, please visit their website.

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