Carnoustie project shows golf’s impact on youngsters

Collaboration with Abertay University highlights ‘great work’ at Angus venue

Golf’s ability to help shape youngsters, both on and off the course, has been highlighted through a project carried out at Carnoustie, writes Martin Dempster.

Over a six-week period, children who took part in the Carnoustie Craws, a programme for young golfers, were assessed by Abertay University on their golf skills, physical activity, and personal wellbeing.

Testing included physical measurements, as well as personal testing on how the young golfers judged their own sense of belonging, self-esteem, self-confidence, resilience and other factors. Across the testing programme, participants reported an increase in wellbeing across all categories, while three out of four physical tests also showed improved results.

“These findings demonstrate the positive impact that participation in the Carnoustie Craws programme, and golf in general, can have on children,” said Dr Graeme Sorbie, Division of Sport and Exercise Sciences at Abertay University.

“The testing highlighted that children are not only enjoying playing golf but are improving their personal wellbeing and physical skills at the same time. This shows the great work that Carnoustie Golf Links and their coaches are doing to change perceptions around the game of golf.”

The Carnoustie Craws programme is led by Keir McNicoll, head PGA pro at Carnoustie. He said: “Golf should be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of age. Golf for all encapsulates our core value of inclusivity and we are fortunate to have such a fantastic suite of facilities at Links House which allows young people to get off to a fantastic start enjoying the great game.

“Our Carnoustie Craws programme continues to grow and it is great that it is benefiting young children beyond just learning the game.”