We already work with a number of local sports clubs (Golf, Boxing, Snooker as well as local football and cricket clubs) to help local kids try new sports and see if they have an aptitude for them. We want to try and expose kids to new experiences and hopefully enable them to play a sport that they might not ordinarily try.
We have teamed up with Saffron Walden Golf Club to create REALgolf. Its sole intention is to expose the game of golf to the younger community and demonstrate that it is not an elitist sport. Hopefully, a few of those will enjoy the experience, maybe show a n aptitude for the game and decide to continue playing at their local facility.
REALgolf is delivered by Rob McNicholas (head professional at SWGC) and his qualified teaching staff. Group sessions last a couple of hours and all attendees have the opportunity of swinging a club, hitting a few balls and generally getting introduced to the sport.
The charity has provided some funding to Thaxted Youth Club’s boxing initiative, run by Gary Morrison. These funds have enabled Gary to purchase more junior equipment and he works with local youngsters to develop their skills and techniques.
The team at saffron Snooker Club together with local businessman Kevin Starr have been very supportive to the charity. An annual “Play the Professionals day” event has raised funds for us and we are proud to receive the support of professionals Martin O’Donnell and Allan Taylor each year. The club also host the Ethan Rees Linwood Junior Club Championship for which we are proud to donate the winning trophies and medals.
The club have raised funds for the charity at both of these events and we have reinvested some of these to purchase new junior equipment and support the development of some of the junior players who show genuine promise in this great sport.
We are affiliated to Thaxted Rangers Football Club, where Ethan played his football.The club have been very supportive and have raised monies from a number of different initiatives, including the under 12’s “Shirt of Hurt” day.
