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Bridgend and Port Talbot HSBC Golf Roots 'Plus' Projects can inspire Welsh young people.

The Urdd Gobaith Cymru Port Talbot Plus Project and the Wildmill Youth Club Plus Project in Bridgend have both been offering playing opportunities in community venues for young people who would not have otherwise considered golf. Tri-Golf for younger and StreetGolf for older children are being used to create an atmosphere that promotes confidence and achievement.  

Each area has its social and economic problems but it is hoped that in both initiatives young people are learning valuable life skills through golf, making new friends and broadening their horizons. For some it may well lead from community golf to membership on a real golf course.

Port Talbot learning through golf 

In the Urdd Gobaith project six schools have been involved, with highlights including an extra girls only session linked with Pyle & Kenfig Golf Club and a major summer Tri-Golf Festival held at Swansea University.

This project has produced an innovative mix of learning how to play golf while also using golf games in numeracy and literacy learning.

Project leader Jamie Price said: “We have received very positive feedback from the schools participating in the project so far, and they have all made very good use of the Numeracy and Literacy booklets that were created for the initiative. There are currently 500 children participating in the project.”

Bridgend youngsters gain confidence

Through its HSBC Golf Roots Plus grant, Wildmill Youth Club in Bridgend will offer taster sessions in golf to young people in the community and at the golf club, with the aim of creating weekly StreetGolf team events which can encourage healthy competition under PGA Professional supervision. These early StreetGolf sessions are underway and the link to local golf clubs will be developed as the young people learn the game and develop their skills.

Project manager Debbie Bryn said: “Wildmill Youth Club creates a culture of respect and honesty among the young people in a deprived area, many whose families have known poverty. Our young people have shown an interest in golf and this grant is helping to deliver a project to provide youngsters with new skills and experiences, developing confidence and team-building.”