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<\/p>\nCanterbury Golf has been selected as the first district in New Zealand to pilot Golf New Zealand\u2019s new volunteer coaching support programme, the National Programme Activator (NPA) \u2014 and clubs across the region are now invited to get involved.<\/p>\n
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The NPA has been designed for the volunteers who make entry-level golf happen at the club level \u2014 the people already giving up their time to run programmes like She Loves Golf and Futures, or simply helping out with informal coaching sessions for newcomers. Rather than asking clubs to find new people, the programme is about backing those already doing the work, equipping them with the tools, confidence, and resources to deliver even better experiences.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe know there are people in our clubs who\u2019ve stepped up to run sessions or support newcomers, often without much formal training behind them,\u201d says Canterbury Golf. \u201cThis programme is about recognising that contribution and giving them proper support to do it well \u2014 while also building a stronger network of volunteers across the region who care about how golf is delivered.\u201d<\/p>\n
As the pilot district, Canterbury\u2019s participants will play a direct role in shaping the programme, with feedback collected to help refine it ahead of a national rollout later this year.<\/p>\n
The programme includes:<\/p>\n
An NPA module covering the purpose and key ideas behind the role (40 minutes)<\/p>\n
A Safeguarding module, supporting safe, inclusive, and welcoming environments for everyone involved in the game (50 minutes)<\/p>\n
An in-person workshop, bringing it all together in a practical setting, to be held on 26 July<\/p>\n
Everyone who completes the programme will receive access to CoachMate, along with a cap, tee, and the option of a set of coaching cards \u2014 Canterbury Golf and Golf New Zealand\u2019s way of saying thanks for the time and commitment volunteers give to growing the game.<\/p>\n
Clubs are encouraged to think about who in their club might be a great fit \u2014 whether they\u2019re already involved in delivering these sessions or are keen to start \u2014 and pass on the details.<\/p>\n
Expressions of interest are open now: National Programme Activator \u2013 Expression of Interest Form<\/a><\/p>\n