AN EXCITING golf programme for children was launched by the MereRidge Golf Academy on Saturday, January 15. Aimed at getting children active in sports, sessions are free for boys and girls aged between 7 and 14.
The launch kicked off with just seven children and numbers seemed to grown on the following Saturday. Sessions are held every Saturday from 08:00 to 09:00 at the Dhubri Road Sports Grounds.
Pastor Victor Kupsamy said leaders in Merebank want to ensure that sports are brought to the children in the area. He said the academy also offers other sports codes such as cricket and swimming.
“Our intention is to ensure that all the children are introduced to sports at an early age as possible. Hopefully, many of them will make a livelihood out of playing.
“We never know of the talents or gifts that we have in our midst. We started last week and have seen quite a few children who have got the potential, it is just a matter of grooming them. I am sure they will do well in the future if they keep practising,” he said.
Kupsamy emphasised that parents should bring their children to the golf lessons as they are free. He also thanked the coaches for giving up their time to teach the children.
“I would advise parents to take advantage of all the sports we’re doing in Merebank. We hope our children will enjoy this beautiful game of golf and take it up further in their lives. One of the principles in our sports is that parents must be there to support their children.
“If any child shows up without their parent, that child will not part take in the sport. Parents’ support is of paramount importance, I believe that when children have the support of their parents, they go very far,” he said.
The programme coordinator, Tony Kisten, was very pleased with the support and the enthusiasm from both parents and children. The focus of the programme is to introduce the game to children, to help them develop skills and hopefully keep them away from substance abuse.
Thanks are passed on to the Merewent Athletic Club for the use of its facility and coaches Brandon Naidoo, Magga Chellin and Yogan Moodley, for giving back their time to the community.
“Their passion to help our children to experience and enjoy the game is commendable. We appeal to other golfers for assistance in coaching. Who knows, maybe there is a Sewsunker “Papwa” Sewgolum in the making?” Kupsamy added.
The academy is also considering adult lessons, call Tony Kisten on 083 780 2105 for more information.
