Golf has a growing joint initiative between Golf Canada, the PGA of Canada, and the Provincial Associations for recognizing junior golf programs around the country that offer best in-class programming, instruction and coaching. First and foremost, the initiative points parents, teachers and junior golfers in the right direction for finding the best, most welcoming experience for junior golfers. The London area has a nationally recognized program, the London Junior Golf Development Centre (LJGDC).
As a National Golf Development Centre recognized by Golf Canada and the Golf Association of Ontario, the LJGDC has certified PGA of Canada Professionals leading through Golf Canada’s Golf in Schools, Learn to Play, and Learn to Compete programs. Led by our certified and award-winning PGA Professional Brian Gallant, the Learn to Compete program fosters the development of competitive junior-aged athletes through a three-stage program in line with the Long-Term Player Development model. In 2016, the program sees over 25 juniors involved in the New Competitor, Developing Competitor, and Advanced Competitor stages.
Some of the highlights and accomplishments of the juniors involved in the LJGDC programs:
• Canada Men’s Amateur Championship (1 participant)
• Canada Junior Girls Championship (1 participant)
• Canada CN Future Links Championships (4 participants)
• Golf Association of Ontario Men’s & Women’s Amateur, Junior Boys and Girls, Juvenile Boys and Girls, as well as Bantam Boys and Girls participants
• Maple Leaf Junior Tour National Championships (4 participants)
• Maple Leaf Junior Tour Ontario event champions (over 5 champions)
• U.S. Kids Golf World Championship and Regional event participants
• Tyson Tour division champion (over 10 event champions)
Currently, the Learn to Compete program has three juniors on scholarships in the United States.
Tyler Schepens
Junior, Tiffin University
Major: Business
Highlight: His team won the 2015 GLIAC Conference Championship
Olivia Brock
Junior, Northwestern Oklahoma State University
Major: Business
Highlight: Currently leading her team in the #1 position
Tatiana Hulan
Freshman, Lake Superior State University
Major: Political Science, Pre-Law
Highlight: participating in the Ontario Summer Games
The quality of programming and commitment to junior golf at the LJGDC includes juniors at various stages in the Long-Term Development Pathway. This year, juniors can participate in the following programs:
• Active Start (under 6)
• Learn to Golf Junior League (ages 6 to 14)
• Summer PGA Golf Camps (ages 7 to 14)
• Team London New Competitor, Development and Advanced Teams (ages 10 to 22)
To become part of this best in-class golf program and community, visit www.golfbetter.ca.
