Golf Australia MyGolf Venue of the Year

When it comes to junior golf in South Australia, Glenelg Golf Club has set the benchmark. In the past year alone, the club delivered 59 MyGolf programs, this is more than double any other venue in the state where we have welcomed 547 participants, including 120 first-time golfers.

The programs are led by Academy Manager, Connor Chant, with the support of Director of Golf, Shane Robinson and coaches Ryan Reavley, Adam Bland, and Harry Coote. Connor has been at Glenelg for five years, running junior programs for the past three. Along the way, he has built on the foundations created by previous coaches including Sarah King, Gareth Jones, and Adrian Wickstein, shaping a pathway that continues to evolve and thrive.

The secret lies in structure and variety. Each school term, Glenelg offers a suite of age and skill-based programs: Tiger Cubs for ages 6–12 and 9–14, intermediate sessions that blend practice and on-course etiquette, and advanced groups preparing juniors for membership and competition, including PGA Tour of Australasia winner Jack Buchanan. Sacred Heart College, enjoys a dedicated nine-week program each term, creating a direct link to the club with several students progressing into membership.

The support of Glenelg’s committee and staff has allowed for new initiatives such as dedicated junior member days during school holidays and an annual junior trip, further enhancing the pathway.

Beyond the impressive numbers, Glenelg’s ethos is simple: make golf fun first. Fully booked programs, a buzzing weekend schedule, and popular holiday clinics show that the club has struck the right balance between skill development and enjoyment. One-off sessions and inclusive scheduling ensure that every child and family has a welcoming entry point.

The impact stretches beyond the fairways. Families find a sense of community at the club, juniors remain engaged year after year, and a new generation is discovering golf as a sport for life. By aligning with the Australian Golf Strategy, Glenelg Golf Club isn’t just creating golfers — it’s creating an environment where the game thrives as inclusive, accessible, and, above all, fun.