The PGA has officially welcomed its newest Year 1 Trainees as part of its regional induction series – a crucial first step in what promises to be a transformative journey into professional golf.
Held across all seven regions of the UK and Ireland, these induction meetings give Trainees their first formal introduction to the Association and a comprehensive look at the opportunities that lie ahead. One such event, hosted at Kings Norton Golf Club in the Midlands, served as a shining example of The PGA’s commitment to supporting the next generation.
Sam Carr opened the session by emphasising the strong sense of community at the heart of The PGA, reinforcing the message that the Association is run by Members, for Members.
He introduced the wide-ranging support network available to trainees, not just during their time on the programme but throughout their careers as PGA Members.
Sam also showcased the many resources designed to help them succeed – including PGA Learn, opportunities through PGA Excel and the extensive media output that keeps Members informed, inspired and connected.
He encouraged Trainees to make full use of the tools and people around them, and to begin thinking about their long-term goals from the very start of their journey.
The objective is simple,” Sam said.
“This was their first formal, face-to-face engagement with The PGA in a training capacity and we want to give them a big welcome and also showcase everything that training and Membership entails: the support they can get, the Member benefits they can access as they move from training into Membership but also the support network that’s available to them throughout.
“We’re all expressing how important it is to reach out to their network of PGA Members and fellow Trainees to ask for help and support. We’re trying to create this feeling of a collective group – we’re all here to work with them and hopefully they pick that up.”
A central theme of the induction was opportunity – both on and off the course. Will Dunn, Tournament Projects Manager, shared insights into the wide array of competitive events available, from Trainee-only tournaments to flagship PGA Championships.
Commenting on the success of the inductions, he said: “It was great to get to speak to the Trainees to discuss the offerings we have as a tournament department – all the events they are eligible for now [and in the future] by being part of the Association.
“It’s everything they can get involved in, from a Trainee-only event all the way to the flagship tournaments. We just want to build awareness and build that engagement with them as early as possible.”
For Will, the overarching message to Trainees was simple but profound: “Don’t stop playing golf – remember the reason you are here in the first place.”
Wayne Johnson, International Manager, outlined the wide range of global career opportunities available to PGA Members, encouraging Trainees to think beyond borders and consider how their qualifications could open doors worldwide.
“It’s very much about talking about the opportunities you have of being an Overseas Trainee and an Overseas Member,” he said.
“There are great opportunities where they can progress their careers, working all over the world. We have 1,500 Members working in 80 countries so there are great opportunities for these young people. It’s important that they know they have that option available to them.”
During the Midlands' induction, Trainees heard from Chairman of The PGA in the Midlands, Rodney Holt, Hannah Crump, Teaching Professional at Stonebridge Golf Club and Steve Astle, PGA Coach and Business Consultant. The trio delivered presentations to the group, sharing insights into their own career path and sparking discussions about coaching, business acumen and the importance of specialising. We'd like to thank Rodney, Hannah and Steve once again for taking time out of their day to share their knowledge.
The induction is just the beginning. Whether you’re aiming to compete, coach, work abroad, or run your own business, The PGA is here to support you every step of the way. Make the most of the connections, resources, and expertise around you.
For further support on any of themes discussed in your induction, you can reach out to the relevant department below:
- Member Support: [email protected]
- International: [email protected]
- Tournaments: [email protected]
To find out more about the PGA Training Programme, click here.
