Emirates Golf Federation and National Junior Development Program Take A New Direction In UAE Golf

The Emirates Golf Federation (EGF) National Junior Development Program (NJDP) took a step in a new direction on November 7, 2014. The EGF hosted the first National Par 3 League event of the 2014-2015 golf season followed by a Meet and Greet Dinner Reception with the EGF NJDP Administration. The goal of the NJDP is to identify and develop young UAE National Golfers while building good character through the structure of the rules from the game of golf.

Over 30 UAE National Golfers gathered at the Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club to start the process of developing life skills, good sportsmanship, etiquette, and golf fundamentals. This program that has been established by the EGF will not only identify the top National Golfers but also help grow the game of golf within the national community.

Players and parents completed player bios, assessments, and training programs in order to give the EGF a sense of participation and talent that is represented in the UAE.

National Team Coach Greg Holmes said, “We (the EGF) have to identify the talent and potential for young golfers at an early age so that we can build on individual skills and develop the areas that need guidance. It is key for coaches to impact athletes during the child’s peek growth stages. This when athletes will develop the skills that are needed in order to perform at a top level in their sport.”

The NJDP has put together a training program that will not only develop young players in the game of golf but this program is also designed to create an all around athlete.

With the support of the UAE Golf Clubs and UAE Golf Academies the NJDP is looking to expand throughout the region. One of the objectives that the NJDP is looking to produce is a strong National Ladies, Junior, and Senior Team. Having a successful development program will transfer to a successful National Team. With golf growing so rapidly in the UAE it is important to have a strong National Junior Development Program to showcase to the region and to the world.

Kahlid Mubrarak Al Shamsi EGF Sectary General and NJDP Official said, “This is just the beginning. The EGF has put together a team that will take this program to where it needs to be. This will take sometime to develop but within the next few years we are looking to compete with the best golfers in the region and the world when it comes to Ladies and Junior Golf.”

After the registration the young golfers took to the course to play in the first National Par 3 League event of the season. After playing seven holes Khalil Kashwani took home the first place prize in the Boys Division with a score of 24. Rema Al Heloo was the winner in the Girls Division with a score of 28.

As the night came to an end, there was a sense of excitement in the air. With a new structure and program set in place for the EGF NJPD, expect to see results. This is just another great reminder of the impact that the game of golf is having on the UAE and its local community. To follow the NJDP find the EGF on social media and visit the EGF website at www.egfgolf.com.

If you are looking to participate or find more information regarding the NJDP please email the EGF at info@egfgolf.com.