Singapore: The Singapore Golf Association (SGA) has announced the launch of the SGA distinguished donors programme, a strategic initiative under the Athlete Development Pathway Task Force (ADPTF) designed to support elite local golfers and strengthen Singapore’s golf development pipeline.

The programme is a pioneering effort that provides financial and professional support to athletes – both during their competitive careers and as they transition into post-sport life.

Under the programme, 70% of funds raised will be allocated to a gratuity scheme which provides direct financial support based on athletes’ sporting achievements. This aims to reduce the financial barriers of pursuing a professional career and provide long-term financial security for top-performing athletes.

The remaining 30% of the funds will be directed toward the SGA High Performance Programme, which supports aspiring golfers through local and overseas competitions, training opportunities, and access to elite-level coaching.

The programme, which has raised S$400,000 to date, will also open doors to career development opportunities through internships and management associate programmes, made possible by SGA’s network of partners and supporters. These initiatives help athletes seamlessly transition into their next chapter after their sporting careers.

The ADPTF and SGA Executive Committee (EXCO) will oversee the governance and administration of the programme. All funds will be ring-fenced for athlete development and disbursed only upon approval by the SGA.

To be eligible, applicants must:

• Be Singaporean citizens.
• Be members of the SGA High Performance or Professional Programmes.
• Demonstrate good character and conduct.
• Have achieved key competitive milestones, as outlined in the programme criteria.

Tan Chong Huat, President of the SGA, expressed his appreciation to ADPTF Advisor Wong Kok Hoi and ADPTF Chairman Ivan Chua and donors who share the same vision of strengthening the eco-system with the SGA.

Tan said: “The SGA Patrons’ Programme is our commitment to nurturing elite talent and ensuring that golfers who have represented Singapore on the international stage are supported not only during their careers, but beyond.

“Singapore has produced many talented golfers, but the path to a sustainable professional career in the sport has to be sustained by financial support, and we are grateful to our donors for sharing the same vision as the SGA in achieving that.”

David Ong, Chairman and Independent Director of Ellipsiz Ltd, is among the early distinguished donors to the programme.

He has also contributed actively to the community and sports, serving on the NTUC U-Care Board of Trustees, the Government Parliamentary Committee for the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth, as well as the Basketball Association of Singapore

Ong is confident that strong corporate backing can help Singapore develop world-class athletes. He said: “Ellipsiz is proud to support the development of high-performance golf athletes in Singapore, providing them with the resources and opportunities to excel at the highest level.

“Our commitment reflects a broader goal of strengthening Singapore’s sporting excellence and inspiring future generations to pursue the game with passion and determination.”

*The Singapore Golf Association is an Associate Business Member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation.