The fun way to teach young people golf is launched in Lisburn

Lisburn Council launched the SNAG Golf programme which is free for teenagers aged between 13 and 16 years of age and aims to provide them with a fun pastime where they learn the basics of the game.

The Mayor Alderman Paul Porter, who is a useful golfer himself, said they had teamed up with the Seymour Hill Community Association to identify around 20 young people who would benefit from this fun programme.

“SNAG contains all the elements of golf but in a modified form” he explained. “The game has its own simplified rules and terminology that adds fun to the learning and playing experience. It falls between miniature golf and regulation golf and those participating can practice full shots, pitching, chipping and putting.

“Through participating in this programme it is hoped that the young people will develop the skills for golf alongside an understanding of the sport. It is also hoped they will start to play regularly as junior members at Aberdelghy.”

The Council has purchased the SNAG golf equipment which will be let out to interested sports clubs, community groups and multi-activity coaches to enhance their programmes and coaching. The equipment would also be suitable for summer schemes.

David Archer, former Chairman of the Leisure Services Committee, said the six to eight week course would take place at Dunmurry High School from 7-8pm on a Thursday evening.

“ At the end of the programme Aberdelghy Golf Course will offer these young people the opportunity to play golf on the course as a Junior Member” he said.

Mr Archer also encouraged other groups to make use of the kit.

“One of the pieces of equipment is a padded velcro SNAG suit which someone would wear and the young people would try to hit them with tennis balls that would stick to the suit.

“I can imagine how much fun young people would have trying to ‘snag’ a leader or peer as they moved about” he said.

The equipment has been developed to allow golf to be played in non-traditional venues such as soccer fields, gym halls and beaches.

If you are interested in using the Council’s SNAG golf equipment contact the Sports Development Unit on 028 9250 9567 to book.