Introduction to Special Olympics Golf
Those who play the game of golf are driven to become better players by experience like hitting a tee shot flush one moment and missing a three foot putt the next. Each stroke motivates a golfer to continue the pursuit of better shots and lower scores. For players of any ability, the opportunity to compete provides the single most compelling reason to practice and improve. It stands to reason then, the more you play, the more you practice.
The strategic plan for Special Olympics Golf states that frequent high quality competition opportunities must be provided to stimulate and sustain athlete participation in the game. Special Olympics Golf strives to provide individuals with intellectual disability the opportunity to play and compete like any golfer. From 1995 to 1999 the number of Special Olympics Golfers in the United States doubled from 3,500 to 7,000. Currently there are approximately 8,000 golfers globally participating in 14 nations.
Special Olympics Golf depends on widespread community based support to identify thousands of volunteers, to serve as coaches, playing partners, tournament organizers, and general program administrators. Additionally, financial resources must be secured to sustain existing opportunities and fund program expansion.
The PGA of America (PGA) and the United States Golf Association (USGA) have played a vital role in the development of the Special Olympics Golf program worldwide. Both have sustained the program since the sport was introduced in 1992 with grants from their foundations. Both organizations support worldwide development with links to other professional and amateur associations such as the British PGA and the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews, Scotland.
The Special Olympics Golf program strives to fulfill the mission and philosophy of the Special Olympics movement. It is a sport that can be enjoyed and played by all, regardless of age and ability.
The Game of Golf consists of playing a ball from a teeing ground into a hole by a stroke or successive strokes in accordance with the Rules. It is one of the oldest sports in the world, and was originally played by the kings and noblemen on the sandy links in Scotland. Golf is now played by people of all ages in almost every country. Unlike most sports, you do not have to be big, strong, and fast or part of a team to be successful. Anyone — man, woman, young, old, amateur or professional can enjoy the game of golf.
