County Golfer Magazine County Golfer Magazine 2018 Spring | Page 53

DERBYSHIRE GOLF DEVELOPMENT GROUP CONTINUE THEIR DRIVE TO GROW THE GAME The Derbyshire Golf Development Group are continuing their Drive to Grow the Game by funding GET INTO GOLF programmes across the county. The GET INTO GOLF initiative will aim to encourage more people into the sport in Derbyshire through a series of projects tailored to introduce new golfers to the game and support them to become Golf Ready. The programmes will be funded by monies from the partner bodies (formerly DUGC & DLCGA) of the newly formed Derbyshire County Golf Ltd and aims to deliver 20 projects across the county. The funding will be used to raise the profile of golf out in the local community with an aim to encourage people to take up the sport and hopefully become golf club members. Nigel Furniss, Development Officer for the Derbyshire Golf Development Group , said: “The DGDG are committed to running initiatives that grow the base of new golfers coming into the game. It is really encouraging to receive this support from DCGLtd, it will allow us to take golf into the community and work in partnership together with clubs and facilities to try and develop the game of golf. “All clubs are currently facing the challenge of recruiting and retaining members, the Derbyshire Golf Development Group has recognised the potential of working with clubs and golf coaches to grow the sport in the community and at the club. “Our target now is to introduce 160 new people to golf over the next few months and hopefully excite them to want to continue in the game and consider joining a club, but more importantly become a lifelong participant in a sport which brings so many health and social benefits.” Get into Golf is a national campaign to inspire adults and young people to take up the game and is run by the England Golf through its network of County Golf Development Groups, supported by Sport England and National Lottery funding. Get into golf opportunities include taster sessions and low- cost beginner courses with PGA professionals. They are a fun and sociable way to start golf – and a great way to make new friends. To register to take part in one of these GET INTO GOLF programmes please send your interest either via the Derbyshire Golf website www.derbyshiregolf.org or Email Derbyshire Golf Development Officer Nigel Furniss [email protected] www.countygolfer.co.uk 53