The Eastern Cape Nomads Golf Club has taken a significant step in promoting golf among young players in the region. On Tuesday, the club donated shirts and caps to 40 young golfers from four development hubs. This initiative is part of the club's Furtherance of Golf programme, aimed at growing the game and making it accessible to those who might not have had the opportunity to play otherwise. The programme is a testament to the club's commitment to giving back to the community.
The Eastern Cape Nomads Golf Club is a society of golfers that has been active since 1972. The club is built on friendship, a shared love of the game, and a desire to give back to the community. Every year, the club raises money for local charities through the Andrew Mentis Trust, which funds tangible items and projects rather than cash donations. The Furtherance of Golf programme is a key part of this effort, focusing on growing golf and bringing it to those who would not otherwise have the chance to play.
The idea for the Furtherance of Golf programme was sparked by a call for unwanted golf clubs, which was met with an immediate response from club members. Since June, the club has been collecting golf equipment at their monthly games, with members bringing along items they no longer used. The collection has continued at every monthly game, with donations also being dropped off between games by members and friends of the club. This outpouring of support has enabled the club to make a significant impact on young golfers in the region.
The donated equipment was handed over to the South African Golf Development Board (SAGDB), which brings golf to children from underprivileged communities through coaching, practice opportunities, and providing equipment. In September, Nomads representatives visited Nelson Mandela Peace Park in Motherwell to meet some of the young golfers using the gear and to watch them train with their coach. This visit highlighted the positive impact of the programme and the difference it can make in the lives of young players.
On Tuesday, the Eastern Cape Nomads Golf Club handed over 40 shirts and caps to young golfers from four SAGDB hubs. The recipients were set to participate in a Golf Sixes event, a short-format tournament designed to let beginners experience a proper round of golf without the pressure of a full 18 holes. The event was a great opportunity for the young golfers to showcase their skills and have fun playing the game they love.
The handover presentation was carried out by club captain Tim Smuts and Furtherance of Golf coordinator Jandre Lessing. According to Lessing, the programme is only getting started, and the club is excited to see the impact it will have on young golfers in the region. The club's efforts are focused on making golf more accessible and enjoyable for all, regardless of background or socioeconomic status.
The Eastern Cape Nomads Golf Club is encouraging members of the public to get involved in their initiative. Those with golf equipment they no longer use can contact Jandre Lessing at [email protected] or at 061-210-7660 to donate. The club is also open to anyone who would like to learn more about their programme and how to get involved.
Key points
- The Eastern Cape Nomads Golf Club has donated shirts and caps to 40 young golfers from four development hubs as part of their Furtherance of Golf programme.
