golf trips with their friends outside of school ,” says Mr Ng .
Ms Cumming adds , “ I agree with Mr Ng . It ’ s a really special opportunity to build that love for the game . When speaking with students , they told me that , even if competing at the highest level is not their main goal , for general career or professional reasons they want to be included in meetings that are happening out on the golf course . And they want to be able to hold their own , in addition to enjoying this sport with family and friends .”
Students practice on different courses , driving ranges and simulation facilities around Vancouver . With multiple state-of-the-art facilities and dedicated coaching staff at each location , the ability for students to work with highlevel professional resources means increased feedback on their skill development .
“ The coaching we ’ ve been able to bring on board for our program is incredible . Since this is our pilot year , we really wanted to open up to a few different facilities and create relationships with specific courses . We get feedback from the students on what they find really valuable , and we ’ ll continue to refine the program into the next year ,” says Mr Ng .
“ We train at my home course , Marine Drive . We also train at the Ultimate Golf Lounge ; it ’ s pretty cool , because rarely do you have golf teams train at a virtual place where you have a variety of coaches , which I find really nice ,” shares Vanessa , Grade 12 . In September , Vanessa will also be playing on the Harvard University women ’ s golf team .
A COMMUNITY OF GOLFERS
Speaking about the program ’ s goals , Ms Cumming and Mr Ng said that they want to develop the community of golfers within the School and to help students meet students and other people who are interested in golf . It is also an opportunity to play in a competitive environment : a space to develop resilience while learning about failure and appreciating the importance of losing . And it gives students opportunities to have fun playing and nurture their passion for the sport .
“ To get the most out of participation , I believe a student has to bring an attitude of commitment to the golf program . This means being enthusiastic about learning the game of golf and engaging with your peers and teammates ,” reflects Ms Cumming .
According to Mr Ng and Ms Cumming , who both have extensive golf backgrounds , individual training and competition can sometimes make a golfer feel alone , especially when participating in events . Competing as a team can make golf more fun , and it can be a valuable opportunity for students to take part in a sport they love and to be part of a community and a team .
“ I ’ m super excited to attend my dream school next year and to pursue the sport that I love at the same time . Before the CHS golf team , I didn ’ t have a lot of experience playing on a team ; now , I feel it will be easier to transition to the college team . Having the CHS golf team to practice with was a really great opportunity ,” says Vanessa , Grade 12 .
“ Playing within a team setting also improves the individual part of the game through motivation — being encouraged by others who are cheering you on ,” says Mr Ng .
We look forward to cheering on the CHS golf team as they enter their second year !
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