The ACED Academy at Blackwell Grange Golf Club in Darlington is enjoying continued success this season.
The academy, led by PGA professional Aaron Cox, has grown from two juniors to more than 150 engaged young golfers in recent years.
“I’m a results-driven coach, so I want to see the kids getting better,” said Aaron. “I’m not just taking the money from parents just to be a creche. I keep it relaxed and make it fun for them – and I think the fun part for the juniors comes from achieving their goal of hitting a nice shot, getting the ball up off the ground or in the hole.”
As well as delivering coaching on the driving range, Aaron has led the creation of a six-hole kids’ course next to the 18th hole at Blackwell Grange.
In 2026, 25 juniors will compete in the GolfSixes league – while others will play in junior tour events in the North East, and in elite events across the country.
The GolfSixes players have been sponsored by 16 Finance, run by Gareth Billington and based at Innovation Central in Darlington. His two children George, 14, and Erin, 11, have both been in the academy about a year but are not involved in the competition.
“My two children love their golf sessions and the benefits of a golf academy like this one go far beyond the game itself, as I can see them both growing in confidence,” said Gareth. “That is why I’m really pleased 16 Finance is able to support the 25 youngsters who will be playing in tournaments this summer.
“Each young player is not only improving technically, but they are also learning how to handle setbacks, how to concentrate, how to make good decisions and how to conduct themselves with honesty and respect. Those are transferable skills that will stand them in good stead in the world outside of sport too.”
Gareth added that one of the best things about supporting young golfers is seeing how much they grow as individuals when they take part in the sport.
“The academy is helping them build confidence, self-discipline and resilience, while also teaching important values like integrity and responsibility,” he said. “They can take those lessons into adult life, whether that’s in education, the workplace or the wider community.”
Aaron added: “I have no doubt that these youngsters will represent the ACED Academy, Blackwell Grange and 16 Finance very well. The great thing about GolfSixes is it’s a team game. Golf is normally an individual sport, but this format brings children together to work as a team, which is such a big thing in life away from golf.”
