“Want to go play?” is a question that resonates with children and serves as the foundation for the junior golf resurgence at Belmont Golf and Bowls Club. Located south of Newcastle, the club was once a prominent venue for elite amateur golf, hosting the Lake Macquarie Amateur until 2016. However, its junior participation had declined.
PGA Professional Andrew Walkley joined Lake Macquarie Golf Schools at Belmont over five years ago. During this period, he has helped increase the number of juniors from 25 to around 150. Walkley’s approach involved not just coaching but also encouraging kids to actively play golf.
“There’s a big disconnect between being on the range and chipping and putting to actually playing golf,” Walkley stated in a recent PGA ACE Webinar focused on game development initiatives. He emphasized the challenge of getting kids onto the course due to Belmont’s busy schedule.
To address this, Walkley initiated a junior development program last year. It invited kids attending Sunday clinics to extend their involvement by playing on Tuesday afternoons. This second session alternates between skill development and time on the course.
“They’re really enjoying that experience of getting out on the golf course and actually playing the game,” he added, noting that it enhances their enjoyment significantly. He stressed that early exposure to actual gameplay is crucial for young golfers.
Walkley recalled his own childhood experiences: “I know when I was a kid all I did was play. I never practised.” He noted that while sports psychology and coaching have evolved, playing remains essential in learning golf.
The program’s success relies heavily on clear communication with club executives and members. By scheduling sessions during quieter times like Tuesday afternoons, Walkley received strong support from club members.
“We try to make sure that if any of the members come out for nine holes, we guide them to go the other way,” Walkley explained, ensuring juniors don’t feel pressured or rushed during their practice sessions.
He added that groups sometimes consist of up to 12 kids who may only play a couple of holes in an hour purely for fun. The club’s cooperation ensures adequate space for these activities, contributing positively to junior golf development at Belmont.
For more information about finding a PGA Professional running similar programs or watching full webinars featuring Andrew Walkley alongside Andrew Thomas and Anne-Marie Knight, visit pga.org.au/find-a-pga-pro.
