Anonymous

About

Sport is my number one passion in life. Ever since I can remember I have played sport, for enjoyment and competitively at a high level. I joined my first club when I was 5 years old playing for my local football team, Ripley Rockets, until I was 11. I then joined Pannal Sports and played for the club until I was 16. I joined my first cricket club when I was aged 6, representing The Nidderdale Junior League when I was 13 and attending trials for my county, Yorkshire, when I was 14. My entire focus from a playing perspective is now on golf. I first started hitting golf balls when I was aged 3 and became a member of my first golf club when I was 9. Since then I have represented my club junior team and the Harrogate & District Union of Golf Clubs junior team for many years as well as being selected for the Yorkshire Boys Squad. My current handicap is +0.1 which has allowed me to play in many prestigious events, nationally and internationally.

At school I had the privilege of being a sports leader, coaching the Year 7 football team. I was also actively involved with mentoring younger golfers at my golf club. These experiences gave me an insight into the need for a different set of skills to those required to play including patience, empathy, optimism and treating people individually.

In 2020 I did work experience working closely and observing the day-to-day activities of the PGA Professional there. Within the week I was there I gained experience looking after members in the Pro Shop and helping the Pros to prepare for golf lessons.

Having played sport to a good standard and finding myself in some highly pressurised situations, particularly when playing golf, I am very aware that over and above the physical attributes and technical abilities required to perform well, having the mental strength to make clear decisions, remain calm under pressure and effectively execute what I have practiced can help to maximise my performance levels. Learning from my own personal experiences I understand and appreciate how confidence, resilience, concentration and determination are at least as important as being able to hit a golf ball straight, bend a free kick around a wall or bowl a good line and length.

I have been fortunate enough to travel many times to different parts of Europe, America and Asia with my family since a young age exposing me to different cultures, people and beliefs. This has opened my mind to appreciate the wider world in which I live, travel away from home and have the confidence to settle into new environments quickly.