Gloucestershire County Golf Partnership Meeting

Monday 13^th December 2010 – Cotswold Hills Golf Club – 2pm

Present:                                                                             Apologies:

Malcolm Lewis (ML)                                                        Sam Stephens (SS)

Mark Powell (MP)                                                            Jamie Woodford (JW)

Ian Watkins (IW)                                                              Colin Pattinson (CP)

Jennifer May (JM)                                                            Richard King (RK)

Debbie Casling (DC)                                                         Pete Langford (PL)

                                                                                            Justyn Branton (JB)

Before the meeting commenced ML explained that CP would not be able to help the CGP in the immediate future but that the door would always be open for his return.  Unanimous thanks from all the Committee for his help with the projects to date.   Minutes of the Meeting held: Tuesday 13th July 2010 having been previously circulated were agreed and signed by ML   Matters Arising:  JM – Sue Elliott and Kirsty Taylor were putting together a programme for the Intermediate Women, Girls, Boys and Men and would try wherever possible for complimentary green fees.  Minchinhampton Old had been approached and had said yes.  South Cerney should also be approached as they had been so helpful allowing us to use their facilities for the Ladies Boosters.  All the intermediate opportunities should also be available to visiting students and therefore information would be posted on their Student Union Site.  Universities to include:  Bath, Bristol, UWE, Gloscat, Filton, Hartpury, Stroud and Cirencester. DC – had started to circulate verbal information out to clubs with regards County Skills Challenge and asked the Committee for their thoughts on venues – Long Ashton, The Kendleshire, Bristol & Clifton and The Bristol would be approached. ML – was still to contact Richard Flint about having a link to the Ladies Association of our site. DC – had organized for adults to have taster sessions at the recent Academy Selection Days and this opportunity had been taken up by some.   Regional Development Officer – Jamie Woodford: No report given   County Development Officer – Debbie Casling:  Bi-Annual Review Thank you to everyone who responded to various questions when raised to which end our Review was very well received.  This is what Jamie had to add to our Review………   ‘The GCGP have had an exceptional 6 months. Activity within the county co-ordinated by the CGP & CDO is the highest within the South West Region. Good foundation links have been established with external partners such as Active Gloucester, Cheltenham Racecourse & the Pied Piper Appeal. The partnership is well governed by its associated steering groups with strong support from both the Men’s Union & Women’s Association.’   Our focus going forward as quoted on our feedback from England Golf is: ‘Within the review submission you have identified agreed priorities going forward, however there are three specific areas that we expect you to focus on over the next 6 to 12 months: ·        Delivering 16 plus participation projects that are monitored. ·        Recruitment of volunteers to support development activity. ·        Continuing to support golf clubs through the GolfMark award process.’ Keep up the good work everyone.  Next review due March 2011 Para Golf The Youth Games were held at the end of September and due to the weather had to be held indoors thus restricting space down to 1 tennis court for Extreme and Tri-Golf a challenge in itself.  We had a great time and thanks to Peter Dangerfield and Alan Beard Schools Coordinator and recently qualified Level 1for their time and enthusiasm.  This is what Anne Anderson from Active Gloucestershire had to say about it. ‘Gloucestershire Golf Partnership commitment to development of opportunities for disabled young people is outstanding.  It's with great pleasure that Golf was on the Youth Games 2010 Programme.  Due to the weather, we had to change the event schedule in the last minute, we were very grateful for the support and understanding we had from the partnership.  After each session pupils were asked to rate the sessions with like, unsure, dislike.  81 of the pupils taking part in the golf sessions rated the sessions and 71 of them liked the sessions.  So there is no doubt that Golf is very popular amongst our Youth Games Participants.’ Para Golf Festival – Wednesday 25th May 2011 Following a meeting with SEN (Special Educational Needs) Schools in the County a date has been set for a Festival to be held on Wednesday 25th May at Hartpury College.  The Festival will be along the same lines as the Golf Roots Programme with the stations being manned by Hartpury Golf Students.  A tri-Golf activators workshop will be organised for them so they are familiar with the equipment.  I have received several requests from more schools for golf activity including Heart of the Forest, Milestone and Alderman Knight and have meetings with their sports co-ordinators arranged. Partnership Development Managers/Schools Sport Co-ordinators Funding You may have heard in the news that funding is being cut for the above positions which will make our work harder to co-ordinate with the schools.  Following meetings with the above and the Golf Roots rep. Sam Stephens we are still hopeful that there may be a last minute reprieve or a solution found elsewhere.  More details available soon. Golf Roots City Project A meeting has been held between Golf Roots, Schools Partnerships and centrally located clubs and Professionals for the above project but no dates have been confirmed yet. Women’s update – Jennifer May:   The Autumn Away Day was held on October 15th at Ullenwood Manor with lunch at nearby Cotswold Hills Golf Club. All was successful …. Many thanks to Ullenwood and Cotswold Hills and to all the volunteer ladies who came to help.  Some 50 ladies joined the fun …. They seem to feel that our two Away Days are now a permanent fixture for their golfing calendars!. The event was virtually self financing.   At lunch at the Away Day we asked whether the ladies would like the Partnership to arrange some group ‘booster’ lessons. The answer was ‘yes please’. So they begin in December at Brickhampton (3 series) with Jamie Casling and at South Cerney (one series) with Kirsty Taylor. These ladies will have two lessons before Christmas and then two more in March. In the south of the County the lessons will be with Nicky Lumb (Nick’s daughter) starting with two in January and then a further two in March. The ladies are paying for these and the whole lot should be again just about self financing.   Some of these ladies are now joining clubs whilst some are regular ‘nomadic’ golfers. They are playing and they are paying green fees so, although we would like them to become club members, they are enjoying playing golf and they are contributing something to our clubs’ finances.   We will also be holding another Rules and Etiquette Roadshow, starring Sue Rawles.  These are planned for January 23rd and 30th and February 13th … but as yet I have not finalised the venues. Our beginners are encouraged to come to these shows, but they are open to all lady golfers, including juniors.    I have spoken to Sue Elliott and Kirsty Taylor about holding a monthly competition for ‘intermediates’ next year. Both have agreed to help.  We are looking at the 18 – 25 age group, both boys and girls, although those a little younger or older wouldn’t be turned away!   Next on the list will be more ladies’, and maybe mixed, tasters, probably January/February.   Website update – Jennifer May:   I see that ‘County Information’ on the club links is still Men Only! I have put a link on our homepage to the ladies’ association, and, being fair minded, I have also put a link to the men’s union.   Junior Academy Update – Jonathan Skuse:   When I was writing in September we were planning out Selection Days which took place in October one for the north and one for the south. There were many welcome faces from previous Academies at the selection days and also new players previously unseen.   From the Selection Day 44 players were chosen to be a part of the Academy being split into five squads across Gloucestershire related primarily to their geographic location and age. I am pleased to note there was an increase in girls to the Academy and hope that we will continue to develop the interest of this group of players. The age range for selection days has been broadened from 9-15years to include the younger players, i.e. 7-8 year olds to capture some of that developing early talent and the late developers aged 16 plus bringing the Academy in line with other national initiatives being undertaken with this older group.   We were again welcomed to the three venues for the selection days: in the North – Brickhampton and for the South – The Bristol and Hambrook. As ever we were able to use top class facilities at little or no cost. The support of all of these venues is valued and key to the continued success of the Academy.   The structure of the Academy has been developed and the Academy will run one programme comprising of 6 Academy sessions between November and June and a session about rules and etiquette with the inter-squad challenge in July marking the conclusion of the programme. The Academy sessions will run at: The Bristol, Brickhampton, Hambrook, the Kendleshire and Thornbury. The support of all of these venues is valued and key to the continued success of the Academy.   The current Coaching team of Paul Gravell, Justyn Branton, and myself, Jonathan Skuse have been joined by Bruce Wilson, Tom Gillespie who join the Academy for the first time. Thanks must be given to John Parker, Steve Scott-Bowen for their valued contribution to the first two Academies and it must be noted that the decision making behind the change of Coaches was in relation to extending the Coaching methods encouraged by the Academy to as many Coaches across the County and was not a reflection on the quality of Coaching offered by John and Steve. Each of the Coaches will be supported by a Level 1 Coach whose time and commitment is valued by the Players, Coaches and organisers of the Academy.   It was clearly identified that there was a group of players, 12 in total, that stood out from the crowd having attended the Academy for a year, hold a handicap and were under 14 years old and hence have the potential of playing at county level in the under 14’s group. This group were invited to become members of an advanced group to be Coached together by Peter Dangerfield an experienced and knowledgeable Coach who will be able to further develop and prepare these players for what is seen as inevitable progress to county level. Peter will undertake his squad days at Minchinhampton – Old and New to take advantage of the available facilities at each venue. This group of players will follow an adapted programme to others on the Academy which will seek to challenge and further develop what they have already achieved whilst attending the Academy previously.   A majority of the first Academy days have been completed and from my observations in respect to my group, Peter Dangerfield and Debbie in respect to the advanced group and some initial feedback from players who attended Tom Gillespie’s the sessions have been successful, enjoyable and challenging.   Peter Langford stood down as Academy Director due to work commitments without his expertise and previous experience establishing the Academy and launching it across the County would not have been possible. The role of Director has been shared between Debbie Casling and I and it must be mentioned that without Debbie’s dogged enthusiasm the Academy would not be enjoying its current success.   From Mark Powell: As we move into year 2 of the academy, Peter Langford has decided to step down from overall Academy Director - a) due to work commitments and b) now that the academy is successfully up and running.  It has been agreed that Jonathon and Debbie are more than capable of running the day to day academy. We would like to thank Peter for all his hard work and commitment in helping Jonathon, Debbie and Mark setup the academy, it is gratefully appreciated and on behalf of the committee Mark has written to Peter expressing our gratitude.   PGA/Coach Development Update – Justyn Branton: No report given.   Treasurer’s Report – Ian Watkins:  Ian had presented the accounts prior to the meeting.  As a review of the funding ML and IW agreed that the Partnership should try to keep at least a year’s contingency plan in view of possible cuts.  Following the last Bi-Annual Review payment had been received from EGU/EWGA.  The men’s Union Levy was still to come in.   Golf Roots update – Sam Stephens: Golf Roots Centre’s are: Tewkesbury Park      500 awarded Richard Ballard Driving Range     500 awarded  PESSYP Grange (South Gloucs)  2010/2011         The Kendleshire / Windmill Golf Academy 8/25/2010                                              2500 pessyp funding / 2000 community golf coach City Roots Bristol City Roots 2011             Clubs:  The Bristol Club – Henbury and Shirehampton             Schools/SSP:  -  St Beeds SSP (Lesley Kenny)  Schools TBC pre Christmas  2010             Training Day:  21st January 2011  Tri Golf  Golf Xtreme             Activity (All below are FREE)                         Tri Golf in 9 Primary’s for 5 weeks                         Golf Extreme in 2 Secondary’s                         Festivals for both activities in 6th week                         Further clubs coaching for 6 weeks at chosen sites             Public Event:   None specified, contribution appreciated  My main drivers for 2011 will be the city roots project in Bristol and its success and also developing more golf roots centres across the county. There is a really shortage!   The Sherdons Golf Centre are coming on board for 2011 but no others identified.  DC circulated a brief outline of a Golf Roots City Project to the meeting and is attached to these minutes.  DC to arrange meeting with SS to talk about CGP involvement with City Project. Item 5 on the Agenda: Brain Storm Meeting did not take place and is now being organized for February 2011.  Instead the following was put to the table and items discussed: 16+ Activity: DC had been approached by Sue Wilson Vice-Chairman of the Gloucestershire WI to put together some golf activity for their ladies – further meeting to be arranged. DC had also been approached by the Hester’s Way Community Project in Cheltenham for golf activity for their 16-18 year olds – meetings had taken place and a plan was being put together. Intermediate Groups: JM with the help of MP had started to compile lists from clubs of their intermediate players for Sue and Kirsty to contact when further details are available. Men’s/Mixed Tasters: After discussion it was decided that the Partnership would concentrate on Mixed for 2011 and that Long Ashton, Forest Hills and Minchinhampton New be approached for their help. Events to take part in February/March. Cheltenham Race Course Challenge – Thursday 30th June 2011 (NEW DATE) We have had to change the date due to President’s Day on the 29th.  DC had approached Tom Sparks Cheltenham Sports Development Manager to organize a schools project to take place at the Race Course prior to the Challenge and to continue after the start.  Suggestions came forward for challenges along the front of the stands with the final being a competition up the final straight.  A planning meeting is organized for January 2011. Para Golf and Tri-Golf Festival – 25th May 2011: As per report earlier in these minutes SW Golf Week:  11th – 17th April 2011: The South West Partnerships were putting plans in place to encourage clubs to put on golf activities during the week and all would be Nationally advertised via Sky and Press.  Further details to follow. 2011 Events booked: Gloucestershire Motor Show (June) – Winchcombe County Fair (August) – Frampton Country Fair (Sept) 2011 Events to be considered: Cirencester Park County Fair – Picnic in the Park – Bristol Balloon Festival – Fresher’s Weeks. Ideas going forward: PL - In terms of taking the partnership forward, as an initial thought, i think it would be good to try and connect as many of the different branches of golf in the county to build more of a community.  I know we are doing a lot of things already, but could we do more?  For instance, getting the county boys teams to help coach beginner men/women. County teams playing with beginners (all ages) more, etc.    MP – u18s (only the two below as I think we are well covered for children) - Restablish the City days back into the South - either Cabots Circus or Cribbs Causeway, as well as something at Gloucester (Kingsholm - they did have a paintball session last week with the army, so I know it could be fitted) and Cheltenham. - Look at working with local pros to get into some of our secondary schools across the county - I know the Golf Foundation are supposed to do some of this but is very limited.  I think we could setup a rolling roadshow across the county and help local pros establish schools links. Para golf - Is there more we could do in and around Bristol? Over 16s  - I know there was some commitment put forward for this but not sure what we can do to support this 20-45 year olds  - This is the area (both male and female) that I think we should focus on but must admit I cannot think of ideas at the moment  Lady golfers  - Continue the work done by Jen  Male golfers  - Focus on the mixed sessions and look to replicate Jens ladies days for the men   Any Other Business: MP – Meeting held with Debbie Casling, Mark Powell, Eve Clements, Marion Jackson and Jen May to discuss Partnership Junior Academy structure and alignment with GGG coaching requirements. A good meeting was held to discuss GGG current structure, future coaching requirements and update on Partnership Junior Academy progress to date to ensure partnership is supporting Gloucestershire Girls in the most effective manner. Decision to provide £2000 coaching fund from Partnership funds to support current year GGG coaching provision in accordance with partnership agreed budgets. Going forward then for 2010/11 the partnership will contribute £1000 towards GGG birdie squad and support other coaching provision with alignment with academy.  Will setup a South Girls Academy structure to support current GGG skylarks programme and then from next Sept/Oct hold a combined Boys/Girls selection day followed by a joint academy programme, supplemented with £1000 towards the Birdie programme. ML -  suggested that in the interim we have a scout around for another ‘Colin’ DC – Is arranging with Kirstie Thirde for an SPC2 (Reflecting on Practice) to take place at Minchinhampton New on the afternoon of the Junior Seminar – Friday 11th February 2011. JM – When clubs are GolfMark’d we ask for quotes and photos to go onto the website and they always come back with Juniors – how do we get across the accreditation is for Ladies as well?  Suggestion that a statement be made at the Junior Seminar that GolfMark is for all.   Date of Next Meeting: MONDAY 14TH FEBRUARY 2011 – 6.30PM – VENUE TBA

ACTION                                 DC   ML                                                                                                                                                                                                 JM       JM                                                                                                                                                                                                                           DC                 DC         JM/MP     DC/JM       DC               DC                                             DC                                             ALL DC       DC

Gloucestershire County Golf Partnership Meeting

Monday 27^th September 2010 – The Kendleshire Golf Club – 7pm

Present:                                                                           Apologies:

Malcolm Lewis (ML                                                        Mark Powell (MP)

Richard King (RK)                                                            Peter Langford (PL)

Colin Pattinson (CP                                                         Jamie Woodford (JW)

Justyn Branton (JB)                                                         Sam Stephens (SS)

Ian Watkins (IW)

Jennifer May (JM)

Debbie Casling (DC)

ML opened the meeting with a general round the table discussion. JB – He was hoping to deliver the PGA Incentive Right Coach, Right Place, Right Time at the February Junior Organiser’s Seminar. CP – Made an observation that he had been more involved with junior than adults but had enjoyed the experiences. RK  - Hartpury students had moved to Lilley Brook with their golf students. IW – The GGU had proposed to increase their levies by 10p to support the CGP   Minutes of the Meeting held: Tuesday 13th July 2010 having been previously circulated were agreed and signed by ML   Matters Arising:  JB – The information received from CGP’s re Club Plaques was being finalized and a Nutritionist was being sought for a November/December Coach Development Workshop. IW – had sent a cheque to the GGG for their part of the EWGA Grant but had not heard from them as to receipt. JM – Suggested involving Lou Pettit to come on board and put together a programme to involve Intermediate Ladies and Girls.  Committee Agreed. IW – Suggested it might be something that the men would like to take on as well. JM – Added that there was a Ladies Millennium Fund for ladies and girls to assist them with their subs etc whilst they are studying and also young mums etc.   Regional Development Officer – Jamie Woodford: In absence DC gave following report:  Valuing Volunteers Workshop – 4 Oct Taunton Vale - Bi annual reviews submission date is 12th Oct - CGP Day – 2nd Nov at Hamptworth GC Club Services/EGU News:   The One Golf Network now links with Daily Telegraph and Sky February 2011 – Roadshows being organised on Course Management for Greenkeepers and Managers – and also Customer Services. April 2011 – Club Services will be putting together a Buggy Usage Policy. EGU is putting together a Buying Group website with Golf Suppliers Stolen Equipment Register which will link with Police National Computer – buyers will also be able to check if purchasing stolen equipment.   County Development Officer – Debbie Casling:  We now have 12 clubs with GolfMark – the latest being Cotswold Hills – we also had two clubs The Kendleshire and Broadway having had its 3yr review and both gaining High Achiever status. The SEN Skills Festival unfortunately has not got off the ground this year but is scheduled  for the early part of next year, this was due mainly to relocation of Professionals involved round the County. We are in the middle of a Bi-Annual Review with paperwork deadlines for 11th October so if asked for any information I would be grateful if responses could be swift.  On this subject I would like to thank the co-operation of the GGU in their quick action on putting together their Safeguarding Policy and for implementing all other actions.  The Ladies Association require a little push in this direction and I will be meeting with them early November to put Policies in place. Attended events since the last meeting: SW Regional Skills Challenge at Farrington – thanks go to Colin for his help at this event – I was disappointed to see that Gloucestershire was not represented again this year and have made enquiries to registered clubs as to why – answer time, management – I am going to organize a County Skills Challenge for 2011 and hope to have all details finalized by the JO Seminar in February.  Committee Agreed. Golf at Leisure@ Cheltenham was due to be over 2 days but the second had to be cancelled due to bad weather.  Thanks go to Dave Finch. Gloucester City & South Tewkesbury Schools Secondary Golf Festival at Sherdons GC – handicapped players 9 hole competition and non-handicapped players coaching – a great success which will result in inter-Schools Schools Partnership competitions. Thornbury Festival of Sport  - a slow start to this one but it got off the ground – thanks to Justyn, Colin and Olive for their help. Forthcoming events SEN Youth Games, Plock Court, Gloucester. Ramsay McMasters Workshop – Tuesday 28th September at Highbridge, Somerset has 14 persons attending from Gloucestershire. Our equipment has been well used during the summer with the net travelling down to Cornwall and across to Wiltshire.  The Tri-Golf and Golf Extreme has also been around the County at clubs, organizations and colleges. City Day – South – unfortunately this has not yet happened as promised however, Golf Roots are planning a City Day in Bristol for 2011 so will work alongside them.   Women’s update – Jennifer May:   Our Autumn Beginner Ladies’ Away Day is all set for October 15th. So far I have about 50 ladies planning to enjoy the fun. Many of these ladies are beginners who are already club members – they seem to find the informality of our Away Days very agreeable!   I would like to let them all know that another Rules & Etiquette Roadshow will be held after Christmas.  I am also planning more tasters for early Spring plus some group lessons for beginners to give them a little push into the next season.   Website update – Jennifer May:  All seems to be satisfactory – except for a problem I alerted the EGU to before I went away in July. This is that when you click on any one of the clubs in the rolling list, you are given the chance to see County Information. Great – you can find out all about the GGU, but not a word about the Ladies’ Association. Nothing has been done by the EGU to remedy this – so my little battle begins again. Not much of a partnership if they cannot add this link, is it?   IW – answered that the EGU had paid for the whole website and the EWGA had not given the necessary info to go onto the sites. ML – Would contact Richard Flint at EGU to find out why we could not have our own Ladies Association linked to our site.   Junior Academy Update – Peter Langford:  Jonathan Skuse had put together an update which DC read in their absence. ‘Success! ..... when writing in July I said that ‘the aim of this programme has been to identify the most promising young talent within the County and through innovative coaching sessions support them to become prospective players in the County youth team in the future’.  Well the future is here with 12 of the Academy pupils being selected to go forward for the County winter coaching programme for the Under 14’s and Under 16’s. Congratulations to the individuals in this group, we’ll miss you but wish you all the best – keep up the hard work.  Furthermore there was significant improvement noted in many of the players of the summer months and most certainly there is County talent for the future.   During the first Summer Academy we have taken the latest teaching tools out onto the course allowing the Players to develop their skills in all aspects of the game. The feedback received from the Players has been very positive with the on course sessions being a valued aspect of the Academy. The Summer Academy concluded with the very first inter-squad competition and whilst it was thwarted by weather it allowed some of the Players to have their first experience of a competitive match and it is something that we will work on and improve for the future.   We will be seeing some of the Academy veterans coming back for our Winter Academy and what we hope will be new talent previously unseen. We have two selection days planned: the North will be held on 24th October 2010 at Brickhampton and in the South on 31st October 2010 venues to be confirmed.   There will be some developments in the programme from last winter but I will issue my usual guarantee of a fun learning experience for all Players with coaching tailored to individual needs and designed to compliment any 1:1 coaching already taking place and assist others not receiving coaching to access coaching local to them.   I would like to take this opportunity to extend a heartfelt thank you for the hospitality received from Brickhampton, Sherdons, Thornbury,The Kendleshire and the Bristol Golf Clubs. Also to the Volunteers without whose support and to the Professionals without their expertise we would be lost. This is also the time to offer a special Thank you to Debbie Casling, County Development Officer, GCGP as without her hard work behind the scenes there would be no Gloucestershire Academy for us all to enjoy.   We look forward to have the talented players from the Summer Academy returning in the Winter with the hope of also finding new stars. I am confident that the next Golf Stars for Gloucestershire will have been through the Academy. ‘   PGA/Coach Development Update – Justyn Branton: The PGA   are putting together a seminar or similar to see what Professionals want in future development.   Compared to other counties Gloucestershire are quite healthy as to Professional turn-out.  CPD may be out and skill sets introduced and employers instructed as to these sets. Ramsay McMasters is at Highbridge tomorrow and Gloucestershire are sharing this with Devon and Somerset. Possible future workshops: ML suggested Dave Alred -  CP suggested the coach of the British Cycling Team – JB suggested Peter Cowen and that Counties could share this one again. Feedback to the Academy included possible 1 selection day and whole year programme with same students – JB to put to JS/PL and report back to CGP.  A suggestion was made as to tasters for Adults during Academy Selection Days – the Committee thought this was a great idea and adopted it – DC to prepare posters accordingly   Treasurer’s Report – Ian Watkins:  IW presented the accounts having been previously circulated.  ML & IW would have a meeting prior to November meeting to review accounts and spending on projects.   Golf Roots update – Sam Stephens: DC reported that she had met Sam but unfortunately he could not make this meeting.   Any Other Business: CP – Suggested Project Brain Storm for next meeting and Committee agreed.  All reports for the next meeting would be circulated prior to the meeting and only urgent matters discussed. IW – The Race Course Challenge would need to be promoted more to encourage more support – possible schools competition and adult tasters could be available.  DC to contact Edward Gillespie to organize date. ML – Suggested a workshop for January for further CGP Development JM -  Raised concerns over the City Days and the whole concept – the car boot sales are ideal as the idea of City Day is to take Golf to the public – Does anyone know of a large car boot in Bristol area. RK – The Gloucestershire Schools Championships would be at Lilley Brook on Monday 4th April the same date as the Avon Schools Championships.  RK to send DC entry forms when available. JM – The Crown Group, which owns The Bristol Golf Club, aims to have all their clubs reach   GolfMark status, therefore supporting the CGP’s in their work.  JM asked the Partnership if we could put their logo on our website.  All Agreed. DC – Presented the Partnership leaflets that had been put together to give out at Festivals and distributed to clubs.   Date of Next Meeting: Monday 29th November 2010 – Sports Academy, Hartpury College – 6.30pm

ACTION JB/MP                             JM   CP                                                                 DC                                               JM                       ML                                                                                                         JB/JS/PL   DC     ML/IW               DC       DC   ML   ALL     RK       JM

Gloucestershire County Golf Partnership Meeting

Tuesday 13^th July 2010 – Brickhampton Court Golf Club – 7pm

Present:                                                                           Apologies:

Mark Powell (MP)                                                           Malcolm Lewis (ML)

Jamie Woodford (JW)                                                     Jennifer May (JM)

Colin Pattinson (CP)                                                        Richard King (RK)

Peter Langford (PL)

James Latham (JL)

Ian Watkins (IW)

Justyn Branton (JB)

Debbie Casling (DC)

Minutes of the Meeting held: Tuesday 11th May 2010 having been previously circulated were agreed and signed by MP (in absence of ML)   Matters Arising:  Race Course Challenge Bowl – it was a little disappointing at the turnout for support this year and a suggestion was made by a spectator (unknown) as to inviting teams from schools in the area to play a couple of holes during the Challenge or to have a Challenge of their own with the Tri-Golf and Golf Extreme.  CP added that he thought the Race Course Challenge was a super event and next year Stuart Little would like to play. National Skills Challenge – IW’s suggestion of a Club being given County Academy Status with rewards and recognition etc.  MP/PL to write to clubs.  JB pointed out that the PGA were organizing plaques for County Academies and Centre of Excellence at £10 each perhaps we could use these. Coach Update – IW had spoken to Nicky Lumb.  DC to send him Ramsay McMasters Information to promote to Gloucestershire Professionals on our behalf. Regional Development Officer – Jamie Woodford: ISA is no more. Latest monies had arrived and the next payment would be expected around October subject to reviews. The next Bi-Annual Review has been re-vamped and will be asking for figures. Thursday 5th August is the SW Regional National Skills Challenge at Farringdon – volunteers required, The Development Plans now require CSP Engagement Documents and Delivery Plans for Core Services – DC reported that Active Gloucestershire was done and that Wesport was arranged for 28th July JW & JB would be reviewing spending to make sure that the monies are being spent in the right places.   County Development Officer – Debbie Casling:  Paperwork continues to flow through mission control with CSP Agreements between Active Gloucestershire and Wesport in hand, Project Monitoring Forms for all activities and just recently reports/actions back on our Action Plans. Golfmark still stands at 11 but we do have 1 or 2 clubs on the verge of completing and even a High Achiever on the horizon. Our 7 Para projects have now finished and thanks go to Dave Finch, Bruce Wilson, Gareth Bennett, Tom Pratt, Adrian Smith and Andrew Etherington and also our volunteers who helped them.  Also thanks to Cleeve Cloud, Chipping Sodbury and Cirencester for taking groups onto their courses. Plans are being made for SEN Skills Festivals to take place in September in the North & South for these students – funding is being sort via Gloucester Old Spot Trust.   Attended events include – Gloucestershire Motor Show 142 participants (Professional support Dave Finch, Peter Dangerfield) – FOSA (Festival of Sporting Ability) 60 participants(Professional support Andrew Etherington) – Generation Games 168 participants (Professional support Peter Dangerfield) A new initiative is being put together called ‘Girls Aloud’.  Dorset CGP are putting in a SW bid with requested funds around £10,000 per County The new website seems to be creating a stir and I would just like to record my own thanks to Jen for all the time she puts into this.  Global e-mails have been sent to all re: website, Junior Summer Camps etc.   Women’s update – Jennifer May:   Nothing to report other than that plans for the Autumn Beginners’ Away Day are underway. The date is Friday October 15th.  And again, we will include any of the men who might like to join us.   Website update – Jennifer May:  The new website is up and running at last. There are still some outstanding issues with Nemisys – but, hopefully, they will gradually put things right.  My main criticism is that, from the point of view of maintaining the site, it is far from user friendly. It has been produced for experienced IT people …. not for amateurs like me, and, in many cases, Nemisys is quite simply trying to be too clever by half ….. and not succeeding. You will also be aware that, via Jamie, I have commented on the fact that if you go to any of the clubs on the list, and click on County Information, you only get the GGU with no mention of the ladies’ association.  Not exactly indicative of a ‘partnership’ is it?   Junior Academy Update – Peter Langford:  PL had had a meeting with JS – the younger groups seem to be enjoying the programme but the older groups seem less enthusiastic.  Plan is to make parents aware of the lack of motivation/attendance and remove player from the programme if necessary, so as not to affect those who wanted to be there. The Players files are a bit too complicated and perhaps in the future just stick with the A6 folders, and build up to a fuller file, but in the first instance focus on the skills tests and wheel. For the future Academies maybe look at re-branding to County Futures, Mini Futures etc, to separate both aims of recruiting those just below county standard, and to promote young raw talent into the programme. Possible look at the end of August to combine County Squads with top end of Academy Students to give them an insight of what might happen with them.  MP/PL/JS/DC to have meeting at end of August to discuss the next programme including an U14/U16 meeting. Make squads a little bigger with three squads of 16 (two groups for younger age groups (mini futures) in north and south, and one north/south combined group for the older age group (County futures)) working with 2 professionals in each group JW suggested an anonymous feedback idea from the Professionals DC to send out feedback forms to all Academy Students to make sure they understand their programmes.   Coach Development Update – Justyn Branton:   Promotion of Coach Development events was to be available through Sports Coach UK and CDM’s would be invited to SW CDO Meetings to put forward.     Ramsay Mc Masters booked for 28th September and all info had gone out to Professionals, Volunteers etc – DC asked if County players would be allowed to attend? Yes to this and DC to circulate info to them. With regards to future programme JB had had meetings with a Nutritionist to see if suitable as well as John Jacobs, Gary Smith and Jim Christine.  PL suggested a Mentalist as this had not been covered yet.   Treasurer’s Report – Ian Watkins:  The Accounts had been previously circulated.  IW reported that both the 2010 EGU 1st payment had been received and also the EWGA/EGU grant money. Golf Roots update – JB reported that the GF had a short list of 4 but would not be recruiting until October.  JW suggested we invite Brendon Pyle to our next meeting just to keep up to date with events PGA Report – Justyn Branton:  In the next 18mths/2yrs there is to be a push on ‘Right Coach, Right Place, Right Time’ and workshops are being organized. New Monkey Surveys would be coming out shortly L3/L4 was not quite finished L2 coach certificate at £587 would remain for 2010 and L1 at £282   Any Other Business: EWGA/EGU Grant: after discussion it was agreed to send Marion a cheque value £930 (GGG portion of grant) and to ask JM if she had any ideas how to use the remainder of the money. Intermediate Girls/Ladies Golf:   As there is only 1 County Competition for this category JM & DC were putting their heads together to hold some regular competitions for these girls to keep them playing golf. This would be for the ‘ordinary’ golfers, not the elite. … i.e. those who will one day be the committee members etc of our clubs. SPC2 (Reflecting on Practice): This workshop is being held at Minchinhampton New Golf Club on Tuesday 10th August 6 – 9pm and registration can be made via www.childreningolf.org Our Partnership is the first to hold this workshop and it will be used as a pilot. PGA ASQ Level 1 Course:  This is being held at Brickhampton Court Golf Club on 20th/21st October 2010 – all information has been sent to those on our waiting lists and also posted on our website.  Full payment is being asked of all applicants with recognition of £100 being returned after 15 voluntary hours had been recorded with the Partnership. Men’s Taster Sessions:  CP reported that only 4 persons had attended the 4 sessions and suggested that it may of clashed with Father’s Day, World Cup etc.  A suggestion that came forward that we approach clubs/companies and give them free places to our taster days i.e. Airbus in Bristol and the License Victual's with a view to getting London Pride to sponsor.     Date of Next Meeting: Monday 27th September 2010 – The Kendleshire Golf Club – 7pm

ACTION                   MP/PL JB     DC             DC/CP         JW/JB                                                                                                                     MP/PL/JS/DC           PL DC                     DC   JB                 DC                     IW   JM     JM/DC                       CP

Gloucestershire County Golf Partnership Meeting

Tuesday 11^th May – Minchinhampton New Golf Club – 7pm

Present:                                                                           Apologies:

Debbie Casling (DC)                                                      Malcolm Lewis (ML)                                                      

 Ian Watkins (IW)                                                           Mark Powell (MP)

 Jennifer May (JM)                                                         Jamie Woodford (JW)

 Collin Pattinson (CP                                                      Sarah Claridge (SC)

                        Richard King (RK)

                                                                                          Justyn Branton (JB)

                                                                                          Peter Langford (PL)

                                                                                          James Latham (JL)

Minutes of the AGM held: Tuesday 9th March 2010 having been previously circulated were agreed and signed by IW (in absence of ML) – Proposed by JM Seconded by CP   IW suggested that in future all reports should be submitted to Committee prior to meeting to cut down on time spent reading out. Regional Development Officer – Jamie Woodford:  In his absence DC read his report -       BI-ANNUAL REVIEWS - All have been submitted by the deadline date and Richard will be providing specific feedback by the end of next week. Not too long after this point, as long as there are no huge problems, the first payments of 2010 will be forthcoming.  Please note that Sport England have indicated they may be auditing CGP accounts in Oct in order to monitor that monies are being spent.  Indications are they will also be looking for our impact on the 16+ participation figures.  CP had had a conversation with Jamie W with regards to this new initiative but indicated he would like further discussions.  IW commented that it would be a tough group because of their commitments in their lives. FUTURE JOBS FUND - documents had been circulated to Steering Group by DC.  After discussion it was unanimous to wait and see what happens in Sussex and that it was possibly not for Gloucestershire, unlike Sussex, we do not have an office to work from. County Development Officer – Debbie Casling:  We have put in our application for EWGA Coaching Grant which has been sanctioned and funds expected in the next 2 weeks.  DC to send IW copy of application. Other documents completed are CSP Engagement documents which shows contact details for the CSP Clubs applying for Golfmark Accreditation have increased and the figures are 11 Golfmarked – 15 working towards – 1 Rangemark and 1 working towards. Our Para-Projects have increased this year to 7 projects involving Tri-Golf and Golf Extreme.  These are being held at Bettridge and Belmont Schools in the North and Culverhill and Brimsham Green in the South.  Our ultimate aim with these this year is for groups to move on into the local clubs. We recently attended an Inclusion Extravaganza at Leisure@ in Cheltenham and are planning to hold a SEN Tri-Golf Festival in the North which will be piloted using young leaders from Chosen Hill School as organizers and The Partnership working with Tewkesbury and Gloucester SSP.  Possible venues: Star Centre and Cheltenham Race Course. We have supported the Gloucestershire Schools and Avon Schools Championships and are also supporting a new Stableford Golf Competition open to Secondary Schools in Bristol (a more relaxed competition to the Avon Schools Champs). Planning is taking place for the 2nd Annual Cheltenham Race Course Challenge – Thursday 20th May 4pm start and this year we have Stuart Little, Peter McEvoy and Kirstie Taylor starting off proceedings. IW and DC were meeting with Edward Gillespie on Friday 14th May to confirm details.   Coming up for June: - SW Schools Championships – Pied Piper Highnam Court Motor Show – Festival of Sporting Ability at Coombe Dingle – Generation Games at Stratford Park – Tewkesbury Primary Schools Tri-Golf Festival.  DC to e-mail JM/CP all dates. National Skills Challenge – it was disappointing to see only 1 club had entered their scores for the first challenge especially as The Partnership were looking to organize a County Challenge and invite top players from participating clubs.  An e-mail had been sent to all those who are registered to gain feedback.  IW suggested that perhaps we could nominate a club with County Academy Status and give them some rewards and recognition with a view to them being a main Skills Academy.   Women’s update – Jennifer May:   The Spring Beginner Ladies’ Away Day was held on April 16th The venue was the same – Ullenwood Manor GC at the National Star College. The format was the same – Texas Scramble over 9-holes with lunch at neighbouring Cotswold Hills Golf Club.     BUT ….. this year there was one change…. three rather brave men joined us! The suggestion came at our mixed taster sessions in January.  The guys heard the girls discussing their forthcoming Away Day – and plaintively asked if there was a similar event for them.  So they were duly invited to join the ladies and three, who could manage the weekday date, accepted. Their verdict was a most decisive ‘thumbs up’, despite the fact that they were told that they could not win. They did, however, have a special ‘prize’ in that their mentor was professional Kirsty Taylor, Ladies’ European Tour player currently attached to Minchinhampton (New) Course.  And yes …. they did outscore the ladies, finishing with a fine 32! There were 43 players in all, 24 in the morning competition and 19 for the afternoon.  Each team had an experienced golfer walking with them to show them how to play a Texas Scramble, and add just a few tips on rules and etiquette.  Morning and afternoon groups joined up for lunch, making quite a party at Cotswold Hills GC.   Many thanks to Ullenwood and Cotswold Hills for their continued support for our Away Days – there will be another in the Autumn!   And special thanks to all the leaders, who included GLCGA Chairman Pat Righton, June Davies and Val Wills, Cotswold Hills Ladies’ Section President and Captain respectively.   The follow-up lessons with both Mike Smedley and James Latham have now been completed.  These are the lessons for which the ladies pay, although the Partnership organises them. I am pleased to report that in both the south and the north of the county, these beginners have been happily arranging to meet up regularly and play the par 3 courses at Thornbury and Brickhampton. Another group – the ladies from the mixed sessions at Hambrook – were last seen arranging to play together at Westonbirt.   All of which is great ….. although, without trying to dampen their enthusiasm, my next step is to get someone to walk with them to point out such niceties as avoiding slow play and letting other players through. And, gently, to persuade them to join a club!   Website update – Jennifer May Colin and I attended the new website workshop at The Kendleshire yesterday. They were experiencing a few ‘teething’ problems, so -- to some extent – it was a bit of a struggle. However, I am sure we will get there in the end. I am still a little wary of our losing our individuality, but we will do everything we can to keep some our own distinctiveness.   I see no reason why we shouldn’t be up and running with the first batch of partnerships in June.     Junior Academy Update – Peter Langford:  Read by DC in his absence      In summary, as well as forming 6 groups this time (48 players), the quality has improved although we had less attendees.  Statistically, from the 78 attendees in April, 50% scored more than 70 points on the challenges (max 118pts), compared to 20% of the original 120 attendees for the first selection day.  As a benchmark, a score of 95+ points would roughly indicate the player is close to county standard, and a couple of youngsters achieved this. We are working towards encouraging more youngsters who are just below county standard, to be part of the programme, although there is some resistance from junior organisers and club Pros. 22 from the winter academy have regained their place on the programme.  There was a reduction in the number of girls who took part in the selection days with only 2 being selected - possibly due to other programmes clashing with the academy and maybe with better communication we can increase the opportunities for the girls. Following an Academy Feedback meeting with Academy Professionals and Level 1 Volunteers  better communication is planned for the Summer Programme with more liaising with the home coaches. The summer programme will be based around course playing using 9-hole courses together with Nutrition and Fitness.  IW wondered whether it would be good to write to clubs asking them if they would offer a free 1st year membership to a selected Junior Academy member who is not attached to a Club.   Coach Development Update – Peter Langford:  Read by DC in absence  We're running every 2 months, most of the sessions have been recommended by the PGA.  The only issues I see are getting more Pros engaged and therefore making some money from the programme.  At present I estimate that we are barely breaking even on the events we have run, or even making a small loss.  Some of this anticipated profit was due to prop up the Junior Academy, but we may have to rethink the finances. We have saved some money on the Junior Academy - summer 2010 -by only having 6 groups and not 7, but with the planned competition later in the summer this initial saving will be swallowed up.  Hopefully, the coach education side will build with more Pros getting involved and word of mouth, but I think we need a review in the autumn to plan how best to get more Pros attending and fulfil their needs.  IW proposed he get in touch with Nicky Lumb to discuss how we can engage more Pros  Future courses: 3rd June SSB - Schools / club links 5th Aug - TBC - looking at Psychology (based on Glos pro feedback) end sep - Ramsay Mc Masters - Physical development in elite golfers   Treasurer’s Report – Ian Watkins:  IW presented the accounts to the meeting. CP asked what would be his budget when organizing any initiatives – JM responded around £200 per 4 x 1hr sessions. DC to organize changing expense claim forms for Academy Professions to read Academy. IW confirmed that the Men’s Union had ring fenced their levies to CGP at 80p for 2010. DC handed IW £20 taken in club hire. Golf Roots update – Steve Scott-Bowen: No Report Received. PGA Report – Justyn Branton:  No Report Received. Any Other Business: Race Course Challenge – Thursday 4th May – 4pm IW reported that all the cards were ready and that there were only 6 spaces left for entries. IW to provide enough Rules for all players and collate flags and tee markers. IW and DC were meeting with Edward Gillespie on Friday 14th to finalise details DC had spoken with Paul Hemming at SFG with regards to sponsorship and would contact to confirm all details the next day.  Suggestions to be made to SFG – vouchers for clothing with recipient paying for their own postage and packing – Goody bags – and suggest to them that they might like to set up a stall to sell their goods. JM had sent all the posters to clubs and all beginner ladies had been given them to display in the community.  She would confirm details with the Gloucestershire Echo.  Active Gloucestershire had published details in their newsletter.  BBC had already mentioned and would do so again.   JM asked the Committee to take into consideration the mileage allowance – currently at 25p per mile.  After discussion it was the decision of the meeting to raise it to 30p from May 1st. This was carried unanimously.  DC to send CP an expense claim form to use.   DC asked if we should be raising the fee asked from Volunteers to support their Level 1 applications. It is currently £50 & it was suggested to raise it to £100. Some of the SW CGP’s have already done this. It was agreed that if the Partnership put someone forward then it should be £50 with all others making a £100 contribution towards the £282 fee charged by the PGA The meeting is disappointed with the PGA, who are one third of our CGP, in charging its full fee. We can provide enough applicants to run a Gloucestershire Golf partnership PGA Level 1 course & it was felt by all that some form of discount should apply in these cases. We are, after all, trying to bring more people into golf & this can only be an advantage to our PGA Professionals who have shops or are giving coaching lessons. IW to speak to Nicky Lumb about this.     Date of Next Meeting: Tuesday 13th July, 7pm – Provisionally Brickhampton Court GC

ACTION                   CP/JW                       DC                                     IW/DC         DC                                                                                                                                             PL/JS                               IW                   DC                     IW IW/DC DC                     DC                     IW

Gloucestershire County Golf Partnership Meeting

Tuesday 9^th March – Hambrook Driving Range – 7pm

Present:                                                                           Apologies:

Malcolm Lewis (ML)                                                       Mark Powell (MP)

Jamie Woodford (JW)                                                    Sarah Claridge (SC)

Justyn Branton (JB)                                                         Richard King (RK)

Ian Watkins (IW)                                                             Linda Carruthers (LC)

Jennifer May (JM)

Debbie Casling (DC)

Peter Langford (PL)                                                         Guest:

Steve Scott-Bowen (SSB)                                                Colin Pattinson (CP)

James Latham (JL)

Gloucestershire County Golf Partnership AGM

Tuesday 19^th January 2010 – Sherdons Golf Centre – 7pm

Present:                                                                                  Apologies:

Mark Powell (MP)                                                                  Jamie Woodford (JW)

Justyn Branton (JB)                                                                Jennifer May (JM)

James Latham (JL)                                                                  Linda Carruthers (LC)

Ed Godwin (EG)                                                                      Steve Scott-Bowen (SSB)

Peter Langford (PL)                                                                Sarah Claridge (SC)

Richard King (RK)

Ian Watkins (IW)                                                                     Guest:

Debbie Casling (DC)                                                                Malcolm Lewis (ML)

                                                                                                   John Parker (JP)

Before the meeting commenced MP welcomed Malcolm Lewis and John Parker to the meeting. 

Minutes of the Meeting held: Wednesday 9^th December having been previously circulated were agreed and signed by MP.

Matters Arising: EWGA Women and Girls Grant – a meeting has been arranged with Marion Jackson for Monday 26^th January.  A cheque for £1800 had been received from The Pied Piper and the Inflatable Net had been purchased from Provision Golf and was been logo’d.  A letter from David Owen had been sent out to all Junior Organisers with regards to his setting up non-handicapped events for under 12’s and would be a point for discussion at the forthcoming Junior Seminar.  A re-cap on the County split and PGA split would be taken to the next meeting for discussion.  ML thanked DC for sending all information requested on The Partnership to gain an insight.

Chairman’s Annual Report – Mark Powell:

MP informed the meeting that this meeting would be recorded as an AGM meeting according to the Constitution.  He reflected on the sad loss at the beginning of the year of Don Harmer who not only left a huge hole in County golf but also in The Partnership.  MP hoped that he would be able to announce a new Chairman in the New Year.

He then went on to reflect on the work of The Partnership in 2009 including the new Development Plan to year 2013 and the monies that had been secured for that period; generous support had been received from The Pied Piper together with an extra £3K funding from Sport England towards our very successful Disability Projects in schools and  the SEN Youth Games.  The Annual Race Course Challenge and City Days that had been held at Cheltenham Race Course and our thanks to Edward Gillespie and his staff for all their support.  The County Junior Academy was a huge success with positive feedback being received and thanks go to Peter Langford and Jonathan Skuse and all the Coaches.  The Coach Development Initiative was doing well with 2 seminars being held together with Equity in Coaching Workshop and Sarah Claridge’s Coaching Toolkit Workshop and further events being planned.  The Ladies Tasters and Beginners Away Days were very successful and MP thanked JM for all her hard work and also thanked all those volunteers from clubs for their support.  The Partnership are very grateful to all the time given from our Level 1 Volunteers to help in all our activities.  We have 10 Golfmark clubs at present with 11 working towards and 1 Rangemark Accreditation going to Bristol Golf Centre (Hambrook Driving Range) the first stand-alone range in the SW to be accredited.  Continuous promotion and advertising through the website and radio awareness is thanks to JM and all her hard work.  At a recent meeting at EGU Stuart Armstrong was heard to comment that although Surrey has the largest investment in money Gloucestershire in size comparison had the largest investment.  MP concluded his report by thanking everyone for the continued support.

Regional Development Officer – Jamie Woodford:

In his absence DC reported that our Review would be due in March of this year and that a new Inclusion and Diversity Officer has been appointed: Joel Blake contact: joel@englishwomensgolf.org and would be available for all things Equity and Disability.

County Development Officer – Debbie Casling:

DC continued from MP’s report reflecting on events during 2009 with the support The Partnership had given to the Tewkesbury Sports Partnership Primary Schools Tri-Golf Festival and Secondary Schools Golf Festival held at Sherdons, support given to Thornbury Festival of Sport and the Pied Pipers Teddy Bear’s Picnic. 

On the Development Plan criteria The Partnership had adopted their Safeguarding and Protecting Children Policy and also the EGU Equity Policy.

For 2010 events being planned are two City Days to be held in the South of the County; further support to Active Gloucestershire in their Disability Schemes; to set up 2 Para projects in the North and 2 in the South with the possibility of 2 Disability Golf Festivals; supporting the Generation Games at Stratford Park in June, Festival of Sporting Ability at Coombe Dingle, Tewkesbury Sports Partnership at their Tri-Golf Festivals and Secondary Schools Festivals, 2-day golf festival at Ashton Court, Bristol at the end of September.  To continue with the Ladies taster sessions and include Mixed Sessions in the North and South of the County followed up with Beginner Ladies Away Days.  A Rules and Etiquette Roadshow for Ladies and Girls through the County.  Continued support to our Level 1 Volunteers with the adoption of a Volunteer Strategy.  Continuing the progress of our Junior Coaching Academy and Coach Development programmes.

Women’s Update – Jennifer May: (report given by MP in her absence)

We began 2009 with Ladies’ taster sessions, held at Sherdon’s and Thornbury. They proved so popular that we had to double the number of sessions at both venues.  Indeed they were such a success that nearly 40 of the ladies opted for further group lessons, for which they paid. I think that is more than 80% of those who attended the tasters ….. which says a great deal for professionals James Latham and Mike Smedley. We are all very grateful to Sherdon’s and Thornbury for their support for these tasters

Several of our beginners then started playing par 3 courses around the county and we are always working at putting them in touch with clubs which are looking for members. I have asked the ladies’ county delegates, if they are looking to increase their membership, to think about  how they can help encourage these newcomers and what schemes their clubs might have to be ‘financially flexible’!

We then held two Beginners’ Away Days, in Spring and Autumn.  For the Spring event we had more than 60 entries and for Autumn more than 40. The format was a Texas Scramble held at Ullenwood Golf Club, with lunch at Cotswold Hills next door.  My thanks to both clubs for their immediate and willing  support for these events. We expect to repeat these Away Days in 2010.

At the Away Days we asked what interest there would be in a sort of  Rules & Etiquette Roadshow, and received a very positive response. So these were arranged to be given by Sue Rawles, from the County Ladies’ Association and EWGA.  Sue, amongst other things, refereed at last year’s Open and has the rare ability to make her subject great fun as well as instructive.  The events were planned for January 10^th at Thornbury, January 17^th at Minchinhampton Old Course and January 31^st at Brickhampton.  The Thornbury event was postponed until next Sunday, the 24^th, due to the snow.  So last Sunday, the 17^th, was our first, at Minchinhampton. More than forty ladies turned up and it developed into a very jolly, but still very informative, affair.   We made these events open to all ladies, club members or otherwise, newcomers or experienced, adults or juniors, and have been delighted with the response.

More ladies’ tasters are planned for March ….. what a good thing we didn’t hold them in January!!  These again will be given by Mike Smedley at Thornbury and James Latham who, this year, will be giving his series at Brickhampton Court GC. Posters are completed and publicity, both press and radio, will start before the end of this month.

This year we are also holding mixed tasters at Hambrook in the south with one of Nicky Lumb’s professionals, and at Brickhampton Court in the north, where Dave Finch from Cleeve will be in charge. Like the Ladies’ tasters these are planned for March and, again, publicity will get underway before the end of January.

Website Update – Jennifer May:

All seems to be fine ….. that is to say I have not been inundated with complaints!

I know that it is perhaps not the most exciting website.  I am not sure that it needs to be: we are giving information and maybe an ‘all singing all dancing’ website would not improve that.

However if this committee feels that it should be more exciting someone else will need to organise that.  I am competent enough to maintain the website, but certainly not with the expertise needed to redesign it.

Junior Academy Update - Peter Langford:

Our 3^rd session would be held this weekend.  Feedback had been received from the Taster Sessions and more advertising would be required.  Suggestion: Junior organizers Seminar in February.  The Winter programme has been a success with 56 on the programme; some of these would be asked to stay on the Programme and all others will be given the opportunity to try again for the Summer Programme at the next taster sessions.  A meeting would be set up with all the Academy Coaches to discuss the way forward.  A change over in Coaches would also take place for the next winter programme(Sept/Oct 2010).

JP gave his feedback and suggested the need to be mindful of the Coaching Pack to the age of the students and the language used.  Structure good and it is also very good to get the parents involved.

JB added that SC and JB were in the process of re-writing the skills test to widen skill spectrum.

Coach Development Update – Peter Langford:

Two workshops had taken place so far (Equity in Your Coaching and Coaching Toolkit).  Bob Wood (Coaching Young Golf Athlete) Workshop would  take place on Friday 5^th February and Stuart Armstrong (LTAD) on the 1^st April.  Further workshops were being put together for the first Thursday every 2 months.  Feedback forms would be available at each workshop and CPD points available.  A whole year calendar was being put together to go onto the Website with links to other courses such as I.T., Bookkeeping etc.

Treasurers Report – Ian Watkins:

IW presented the audited accounts to the meeting.  All the Junior Academy funds were included and up to date.  The GGU levies had been entered on the last day of the year and IW made the meeting aware that we were the only County to have support from the GGU and Ladies Association through their levies.

Golf Foundation Report – Steve Scott-Bowen:

No Report given.  DC reported that a meeting has been set for February to go through Action Plans.

PGA Report – Justyn Branton:

The Level 2 Coaching Programme was being re-arranged because of the fail rate and the fact that coaches were not completing at least 25 hours coaching between their L1 and L2.  It would now be at The Belfry with Pete Matson presenting.

Richard Chatham, Sherdons Golf Centre joined the meeting.

Any Other Business:

DC - asked if anyone would be available to go to The EGU Conference in February as she would not be available.  If no-one was available JM had volunteered.  MP said that he would sort.

DC - had received a request from Gary Ward The Kendleshire for consideration given to a new member of their Junior Committee Jane Bridgeman to be given L1 training.  DC had spoken to Jane to explain the Partnership support and expectations from her and she would be more than willing to help us.  Committee agreed to send her on a course and DC would inform.

DC – Informed the meeting that there was possible funding available from the BBC/Children in Need but would need to be planned according to the deadline dates. 

DC – advised the meeting the 2010 Resource CD was being produced ready for the Junior Seminar and that a Volunteer Information Booklet was being printed.

RK – informed the meeting that if there was anything he and Hartpury could do to let them know.  They were trying to get more involved with schools.

JL – commented that it was good to hear positive feedback from the Junior Academy Programme.

JP – informed the meeting that there was a free Sports Therapy Clinic at Oxstalls for all sporting injuries.

MP – Reminded all of the Junior Seminar being held at Minchinhampton New on Friday 5^th February 7pm

IW – Thanked Richard Chatham on behalf of the meeting the use of his Boardroom.

Date of Next Meeting:   Tuesday 9^th March – 7pm – Hambrook Driving Range, Bristol.