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Johannesburg - The South African Golf Association (SAGA), in association with the South African Golf Development Board (SAGDB), will launch a South African National Golf Squad programme following a crucial and timely sponsorship of R10m from business leader, Johann Rupert.
“This is a very exciting development for our emerging men’s and women’s talent,” said SAGA president, Gerhard Conradie.
“We have been working tirelessly towards the formation of a national golf squad programme for some years and we are absolutely delighted to realise this vision in conjunction with the SAGDB, thanks to the generosity of Mr Rupert.
“We will select 25 amateurs from the SAGA, women’s golf SA and SAGDB pool to participate in the high performance programme that is aimed at enhancing the pipeline of able and prepared young amateurs.
Struggle to adjust
Conradie said: "We're very concerned about the annual drain on the amateur ranks and the purpose of the squad is to ensure that our most talented players remain in the amateur game. The sponsorship will help us in keeping the players in the amateur ranks until they are properly prepared to transition to the pro ranks."
Sunshine Tour chief executive Selwyn Nathan also welcomed the national golf squad programme.
“Each year we welcome the top amateurs into the professional circuit, but we watch with concern how they struggle to adjust to the paid ranks.
“The elements contained in the programme will deliver more developed, mature and prepared golfers to the Sunshine Tour."
