Golfing all the way to the USA

The 18-year-old has been awarded a scholarship at Oklahoma City University, where he will study business administration and specialise in sports management. He will also be joining the university’s golfing team, the Stars. The scholarship is for four years, but he will have the option after two years to play as a professional.

“It’s obviously exciting,” said Kaminski.

“A little scary, actually, but very exciting.”

The university’s golf coach, Kyle Blaser said he needed a quality golfer for his team. “From my research and word of mouth, I came to believe that Rupert has the potential to be an all-American and national champion,” he said.

Kaminski, born in Johannesburg and schooled at King Edward VII School, is a product of the ever-strengthening junior section at Parkview Golf Club where he has played since he first swung a club as a toddler.

He was club champion in 2013 and is currently the winter champion as well. He was runner-up and the highest ranked South African in the South African Amateur Strokeplay Championships, and he also won the 2013 Silver Vase and Junior Silver Vase, trophies that bear the names of South African Major winners, Ernie Els and Charl Schwartzel.

Playing off a plus four handicap, he is currently the number five amateur golfer in the country. “We’re proud to have Rupert emerge from our junior ranks,” said Parkview club captain, James Fussell.

“We know he has a great golfing career ahead of him and we look forward to seeing his successes recorded in newspaper headlines worldwide.”

The university faculty has enjoyed success with a number of young South African golfers in the past, all of whom have played at, and graduated from Oklahoma City University, and have gone on to successful professional careers.

Among Kaminski’s first outings is likely to be the 2015 South Beach International Amateur in December at the Miami Beach Golf Club and Normandy Shores Golf Club.

Details: www.parkviewgolf.co.za