Martin Dempster: ‘Team Scotland’ not such a daft idea

IAN Rae’s call in The Scotsman for a “Team Scotland” concept to be considered may have been scoffed at by some, but it is interesting that England Golf is contemplating being more supportive of its young professionals.

Ian Rae. Picture: TSPL

The “Auld Enemy” has produced one of the game’s most exciting young prospects in Matt Fitzpatrick and also seen Andy Sullivan become a multiple European Tour winner.

Yet, according to Nigel Edwards, it has the same headache as Scotland in getting good amateurs to become successful professionals.

“It is one of our biggest challenges alongside players staying in education,” said the England Golf peformance manager, who has seen 32 men’s or A squad players join the paid ranks since the 2013 Walker Cup without too many having any real success.

“We have to do something about that transition from amateur to professional, whether it is increasing the opportunities and funding we give at amateur level or supporting them as a fledgling professional or even both.

“That is very much on our agenda.”

If England are thinking that way, then it’s a must in Scotland.