Steven McDonnell has been appointed head professional at Whitburn Golf Club.
McDonnell takes over from Greg Jobling, who has moved to Sunderland Golf Centre.
The Whitburn role is McDonnell’s first permanent club appointment, although he’s vastly experienced having spent time teaching and coaching in the south as well as at Ravensworth, Boldon, Oakleaf, Sharpley, Close House and Sunderland Golf Centre.
Having graduated from Birmingham University in PGA professional golf studies, McDonnell has been involved in golf development, coaching and project management, and has developed strong links with England Golf and the Golf Foundation.
Last year he carried out a Golf in Schools project in the North East and he’s working on a long-term plan to build up junior and women’s golf at Whitburn, as well as the possibility of securing funding to improve the club’s practice and coaching facilities with a covered range area and academy.
“When I came back to the North East I saw there was a massive gap in the membership up here. We have to encourage juniors and ladies through coaching and the Get into Golf initiative,” he said.
McDonnell has already started coaching sessions for youngsters at Whitburn every Saturday at 10am and the number of youngsters taking part is growing weekly. For more information contact Steven on 07540 730 022 or in the pro shop at Whitburn.
