Golf Canada and the PGA of Canada have launched a new online coaching module, “Introducing Golf to Individuals with Disabilities.”
The development and roll-out of the new coaching module is part of a shared commitment from both organizations to promote a more equitable, diverse, and inclusive environment across Canadian golf.
As part of this commitment, the PGA of Canada and Golf Canada are also collaborated with EDGA (formerly the European Disabled Golf Association) to provide coach training that will demystify adaptive golf.
The “Introducing Golf to Individuals with Disabilities” module will assist PGA of Canada golf instructors and other trained individuals, coaches, and health practitioners in creating inclusive programs that welcome individuals with disabilities into introductory golf experiences. The coaching module will guide instructors in designing adaptive programs, modifying golf equipment and activities to meet participants’ needs, and communicating effectively and respectfully with and about individuals with disabilities.
The module is designed for golf instructors and coaches, healthcare professionals, community leaders, parents, volunteers, and golfers.
“Through this coach training module, Golf and Canada and our partners at the PGA of Canada are eager to increase support for golfers of all abilities and make our sport more inclusive for all Canadians,” said Laura Wilson, Director of Inclusion Programs and Safe Sport for Golf Canada. “The contents of the module have been thoughtfully constructed with objectives and learning outcomes to help provide coach training towards an inclusive golf experience for individuals with disabilities.”
The goal of the module is directed three-fold towards golf instructors, healthcare professionals and volunteers: To increase the inclusivity and adaptiveness of golf programs for individuals with disabilities; utilize adaptive golf opportunities for rehabilitation activities; and provide an introductory pathway for individuals to support at introductory golf clinics and first involvement programs for participant with disabilities.
Golf Canada and the PGA of Canada wish to recognize the Government of Canada and their support in providing funding for the coaching module through the Community Sport for All Initiative which seeks to remove barriers and increase sport participation rates for underrepresented groups. Its key objective is to support community sport initiatives for equity-deserving groups, particularly Black, Indigenous, 2SLGBTQI+, and newcomers to increase participation and retention in sport.
The module content was written by Katherine Hale, Golf Canada’s Manager of Inclusion Programs, and a Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competency. It was produced in partnership with the PGA of Canada, whose teaching and coaching programs are widely respected around the world.
The “Introducing Golf to Individuals with Disabilities” coaching module can be accessed by clicking here.