The Singapore Golf Association (SGA) is proud to announce that Gregory Foo and Abdul Hadi will be the latest additions to the SGA Rookie Professional Program, having turned professional after the 2018 Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship which was held from Oct 4th to 7th. They join Marc Ong, Joshua Shou and Jesse Yap, who were inducted into the new program earlier this year.
The SGA Rookie Professional Program aims to provide a bridging platform for our elite amateurs transiting into the professional ranks, with one key objective being the Olympic Dream. The program has provided support through partial financial subsidies; access to training facilities; coaching guidance and other sport-related support. Since turning professional, the Trio have been competing mainly on PGA China, Asian Development Tour and the Local Singapore Professional Golfers Association Circuit.
SGA General Manager Jerome Ng said, “SGA remains committed to our athletes who have made so many sacrifices to represent Singapore and to perform at the highest level. It is not easy to endeavour into a professional golf career and we aim to provide whatever support needed within our means.”
Added by SGA Vice-President and Chairperson, Training and Development Committee Mrs Lyn Sen, “Having served the country well as amateurs representing the country in major games, our rookie professionals now embark on a new journey. Their every success will spur younger generation of golfers. SGA must continue to provide support in their rookie years and help in their transition to life on tour.”
Looking beyond the current scope of support in the Rookie Professional Program, SGA endeavours to proactively widen the support and development focus to include holistic skills development outside Golf, such as Personal and Coaching Development; Tax and Accounts Management, Social Media Marketing, and People Engagement Skills.
“The Rookie Professional Program has benefitted me tremendously. Knowing that you have some support gives me a better mindset when playing events and the confidence to perform.” says Marc Ong.