Singapore: Gregory Foo and Abdul Hadi are the latest additions to the Singapore Golf Association (SGA) Rookie Professional Programme.
The duo turned professional last week at the conclusion of the 2018 Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship. They join Marc Ong, Joshua Shou and Jesse Yap, who were inducted into the new programme earlier this year.
The SGA Rookie Professional Programme aims to provide a bridging platform for Singapore’s elite amateurs transiting into the professional ranks, with one key objective being the Olympic Dream.
The programme has provided support through partial financial subsidies; access to training facilities; coaching guidance and other sport-related support.
Since turning professional, Ong, Shou and Yap have been competing mainly on the PGA Tour China, Asian Development Tour and the local Singapore Professional Golfers Association circuit.
SGA General Manager Jerome Ng said: “The 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.”
Lyn Sen, SGA Vice-President and Chairperson of the Association’s Training and Development Committee, said: “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 Programme, the 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 Programme has benefitted me tremendously. Knowing that you have some support gives me a better mindset when playing events and the confidence to perform,” said Ong.