Friday, December 13, 2024

Student golfers aiming for gold

WA DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

As West Australian, Hannah Green, prepares to tee off for Australia at the Olympic Games, the next star from Como Secondary College’s Golf Academy is emerging.

Year 12 student, Josiah Edwards, is on par to follow Green in making a career as a professional golfer, excelling at the college’s specialist sporting program.

Josiah recently secured his first international win, in 2023 in Malaysia, at the Saujana Junior Championship. He shot a one-under par 71 in the opening round and followed up with rounds of 75 and 71 to win by two strokes, something he claims as his most memorable moment.

Last year, Josiah was ranked the number one junior golfer in Australia, was selected for the state and junior teams and earlier this month represented the country in the IMG Academy Junior World Championships.

Josiah was one of eight players selected to spend two weeks competing in the United States.

”I have worked really hard to understand the game of golf, (it) has really cool rewards when you start reaching the highest levels,” he said.

One day he hopes to compete in professional tournaments such as the PGA and European Tour. Aiming to win prestigious tournaments, such as the U.S. or British Amateur Championship and securing sponsorship and endorsements from major golf brands, are all a part of his plan.

“Golf has helped me develop as a person, both on and off the course. It has taught me important values and skills that have positively influenced my personal and professional life,” he said.

Golf Academy students are achieving amazing results at School Sport and other competitions.

Josiah wants people to know that golf isn’t just an ‘old person’, or easy, sport as it is often perceived.

“Golf requires a high level of skill, concentration, and mental toughness,” he said.

“Players must have strong strategic thinking, precision, and the ability to handle pressure to succeed.”

When Josiah first started touring with the WA Junior State team, he knew that travelling and playing golf was what he wanted to do with his life.

“Playing golf has had a significant impact on my life beyond the sport itself, it has taught me valuable life skills such as patience, perseverance, and discipline,” he said. 

“My passion for golf is shared by my team, my parents, coaches, family and friends, (who) are all a big part of helping me achieve my dreams.” 

Josiah Edwards, go fore it kid.

The Como Golf Academy is dedicated to producing highly skilled career golfers. It is designed for students who demonstrate developing golf playing ability.

Coaching is delivered by PGA professionals from the adjoining Collier Park Golf Course, which students have access to – all facilities, including a 27-hole golf course, grass driving range and short game facilities.

Green, the 2019 KPMG Women’s PGA Champion, is a former Golf Academy captain and the current Golf Academy ambassador.

Find out more about the Como Golf Academy from the school website

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