Marathon’s Golf In Schools Program Expands
From left: Marathon Canadian Tire Owner/Operator Gary Mulligan; Head Canadian PGA Professional, Brett Redden; Recreation Manager Joe Jazvac, Town of Marathon; Physical Education Teacher Eric Gendron, Ecole Val Des Bois; Principal Mirielle Major-Levesque, Ecole Val Des Bois. Front Row(Left to Right): Elementary Students Caroline Levesque and Charles Jazvac. Photo by Anne Riendeau
MARATHON, ON – The groundwork has been laid to provide continued growth golfing in Marathon. With the assistance of the following partners:
- Gary Mulligan-Owner/Operator of Marathon Canadian Tire
- Town of Marathon Administration/Town Council
- Local elementary school Principals/Staff
The program is provided at no cost to all three local elementary schools, as equipment is provided by Marathon Canadian Tire and instruction is provided by Brett Redden who begins his golf contract as of April 1.
Marathon Canadian Tire supports many local youth organizations including through sponsorship of local events and sports teams. Owner Gary Mulligan and his sales associate Bev Carson-Bader spearhead the local Canadian Tire JumpStart program. Gary and Bev both understand and appreciate the importance of youth sports and the positive effects it can have on a family’s lifestyle. Canadian Tire’s JumpStart program is available to families who may want their kids to be involved in sport, but may not have the financial means necessary. Gary has also stepped up and shown his support for the Golf in Schools program. The schools have not needed to alter their budget thanks to the winning combination of Gary Mulligan purchasing necessary equipment and Brett Redden sharing his professional expertise to provide instruction.
The Golf in Schools program taught by Brett is an initiative designed to introduce the game to children by incorporating golf into the physical education programs. The indoor program allows kids in grades 1-8 the opportunity to try their hand at one of the world’s most popular sports. Supported by Margaret Twomey Public School (MTPS) teachers, faculty and Principal Heidi Patterson. the Golf in Schools program debuted in Marathon last April (2013).
The program was received by MTPS educators in a very positive way as they saw the benefits of adding a new activity to their Physical Education classes. Teachers also commented on how it encouraged kids to get outdoors enjoying the fresh air, socializing with other kids, and developing a new set of skills. As a result, just 2 months later, the Peninsula Golf Course witnessed a significant increase in its Junior Golf memberships, jumping from 14 to over 40. A very significant boost to any club.
This year with support from elementary school principals; Mirielle Major-Levesque and Tania Watson, and the faculty at their respective schools, École Val Des Bois and Holy Saviour Catholic School, students will participate in the program which is scheduled to begin the first week of April and includes all three elementary schools in Marathon.
Peninsula Golf Course’s affordable junior golf rates for kids ages 5-18 include FREE weekly instruction from May-September(weather permitting) this contributes to Marathon having the most affordable and extensive golf program on the North Shore.
Redden shares his thoughts regarding why the game is becoming more popular with kids in Marathon “Golf’s affordability and accessibility in Marathon is second to none. The town approached me for suggestions in 2012 in regards to attracting more members to our club. I felt that it had to begin with our youth and support from educators of our local schools. The support of the town with reducing its youth golf fees would also be an important step. Introducing boys and girls to the game of golf at a young age and in a welcoming environment is very important as these kids represent the next generation of golfers. Bringing the Golf In Schools program to Marathon is long overdue, but we anticipate this being the starting point of continued growth.”
