Term 2, 2021 saw the launch of a new ‘MyGolf for All’ program delivered through Sporting Schools in partnership with Special Olympics Australia.
Redcliffe Special School, just north of Brisbane, was one of the first schools to take part in this new program offering, with many of the students at the school having never picked up a golf club before.
Their first taste of golf was a delight according to PGA All Abilities coach Ian Jones.
“The kids that were able to verbalise told their teachers they had a great day with Coach Jonesy,” he said.
The students at Redcliffe Special School have a wide range of physical and intellectual disabilities and Jones effectively modified the activities to suit the needs of the kids, with the support of the MyGolf TREE Guide developed by Special Olympics.
The kids knew what to expect from the sessions with the school being provided a Visual Golf story to show to the students to prepare them for their golf lessons. They had a great
time putting, chipping and pitching on the school oval using modified clubs, tennis and jelly balls.
Redcliffe hopes the momentum won’t stop there, with the plan to apply for Sporting Schools funding and run a 6-week program in term 4. The students could then keep their swing going by joining some MyGolf All Abilities and Special Olympics weekend programs.
“I found the experience with Golf Australia and Coach Jonesy to be highly rewarding for my students,” Michael Turnbull, senior teacher at Redcliffe Special School, said.
“The team were very approachable, highly motivated and happy to work with me to individualize the program for each and every student. Through the use of the pre-teaching materials, the coaching and golf drills, and the modified equipment, all students were able to achieve a level of success and enjoyment that truly exceeded my expectations. I am certainly glad we took the leap with the help of our Sporting Schools funding.”
Reprint of article originally published by Golf Australia.
