Golf: Connachan nurtures new blood

FORMER Ladies' European Tour player Jane Connachan has encouraged more of her fellow professionals to get involved in clubgolf coaching.

She acknowledges that pros have to make a living out of the game but says the sight of a junior rising through the ranks can be equally satisfying.

"It's very worthwhile coaching children and once you've got the groups up and running it really takes care of itself," said Connachan. "As a professional golfer of course you have got to make sure you have a living from it but I get such a kick out of seeing a kid improve and have a sport for life.

"Whether they become really good, low handicap players or internationalists I want kids to go out and enjoy it and then as adults have the best time of their life on the golf course."

Connachan was speaking at the launch of a new initiative aimed at encouraging more East Lothian teachers to become involved with clubgolf coaching in their schools. So far 114 teachers in the Garden County have been trained to deliver clubgolf's introductory game on their curriculum but more are needed to teach in local schools.

"Giving lessons to these teachers will give them a better understanding of golf so that when they teach clubgolf in schools they will be better coaches," said Connachan, who began coaching the first 12 teachers at Musselburgh Sports Centre.

"The teachers are a real cross section ranging from established players to complete beginners. The response has been very encouraging and it is certainly something I would recommend to other pros around the country."

From East Lothian herself, Connachan has been involved with clubgolf for three years, coaching children at Fisherrow, Haddington and Musselburgh Old Golf Clubs. Last month she attended clubgolf's Stage 3 Orientation programme at Largs, equipping her to take her most advanced juniors to the higher levels of coaching.

"Clubgolf coaching is definitely something I would recommend to other pros," she said. "I've thoroughly enjoyed it."