Blackwell Grange-based PGA professional Aaron Cox will represent the North East at this year’s England Golf Awards after securing a nomination in the Participation and Development Coach of the Year category.
Aaron – the only individual from the region nominated for this year’s awards – was instrumental in the creation of the six-hole junior course at Blackwell Grange. Establishing the course has allowed him to work with local schools and introduce junior tournament play. Since joining the club in January 2019, the junior section has grown from 12 to 120 while an innovative Aced Academy for the most talented juniors has introduced coaching, physio and fitness profiles via a digital app.
“I was chuffed to get the nomination and to make it onto the shortlist of four is brilliant,” said Aaron. “It’s been three years of hard work and there’s a lot more to do in the years ahead. To be acknowledged at this point in the process is awesome.
“Being nominated for a national award is a little surreal and I’m looking forward to the awards ceremony. Looking further ahead, I want to continue growing the programme and golf participation among young people.
“Some will continue along the process into the Aced Academy and elite competition while others will go on to enjoy the sport as a hobby and I hope all the kids enjoy playing golf for a long time.”
Meanwhile, the England Women’s Team – which featured Whitley Bay’s Rosie Belsham – has been nominated for Performance of the Year. Yorkshire’s Headingley and Malton & Norton golf clubs have been nominated for Tournament Venue of the Year.
This year’s virtual ceremony – hosted by broadcaster, journalist and avid golfer Naga Munchetty – will take place on Wednesday April 20 from 6.30pm on England Golf’s YouTube channel.
Nominations were invited from the public for 10 of the 11 categories with Performance of the Year candidates nominated by England Golf staff.
Inkeeping with tradition, there is no shortlist for the Lifetime Service Award, which will be presented on the night.
