Junior Golf Camp Tees Off at SGC

By Liz Page

STAMFORD - Until everyone was signed in and assigned a station, there was organized pandemonium at the Stamford Golf Club as the Stamford Junior Golf camp got underway. The camp started on Monday, with 55 kids ready to get into the swing of summer, just one week after the school year ended for students.

Although Hurricane Beryl could have something to say about how much time is spent on the course last week, the four-day camp introduced youngsters to the life sport of golf. It is made possible each year through the generosity of the Robinson-Broadhurst Foundation, the O'Connor Foundation, Stewart's Shoppe and CORE Value, along with a strong core of veterans who believe in the Junior Golf Program. The grants help fund the purchase of clubs and pay for scholarships.

Campers receive professional, hands-on instruction along with course play. Enrollment gives them membership through the rest of the season, to return to play and practice the sport. The intent is to instill the love of playing a lifetime sport as students learn the skills needed, safety and etiquette.

Golf clubs suited to different age levels are a key factor for young golfers learning the sport. Each camper is assigned a set of clubs, just right for their size.

Each morning of camp they learn driving, chipping and putting, with small groups lessons. Then there is lunch and they head out onto the course to practice what they've learned. They golf with family members or mentors.

Jim Adair, a member of the Junior Golf Board of Directors, has a whole bevvy of people he can count on to help with the programs, including Richie Beers, golf pro Jim Schouller, who generally teaches students how to drive from the driving range. Then Jim Lees, player development coordinator at SUNY Delhi, who works with the students on their chipping skills and Mike Bell, the new professional at the club, who was helping the kids to learn to putt.

Of course you might find some other avid golfers, such as Jon Barber, Neil Cunningham and Bob VanValkenburgh helping to mentor those just learning about golf.

It is a highly praised program that provides a key introduction to a sport people can enjoy for their entire lives.