| The annual England Golf Performance Conference & Awards, which took place at Eastwood Hall in Nottinghamshire last week, recognised some of the amateur game’s star coaches, volunteers and regions over the past year. Over 100 guests were treated to a talk from Olympics legend and England Golf Ambassador Dame Denise Lewis as part of the event, which saw five winners announced on the night. Boys’ Region of the Year – East |
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| The East Region was named Boys’ Region of the Year for 2024/25, recognising an exceptional season of consistent results, strong representation at national and international level, and a collective commitment to player development. At the top level, Toby Peters and Ben Sessions led the way with international honours. Peters represented England at both the European Team Championships and Home Internationals, while Sessions also featured in the Home Internationals and delivered a standout performance at the Spanish Boys’ Championship. Their achievements set the tone for what was a remarkable year across the entire East Regional Squad. The region’s depth was further highlighted in the England Golf Boys’ Order of Merit, where Peters secured 1st place, Sessions finished 3rd, and additional East players ranked 9th, 16th, and 19th. With five players inside the national top 20, the East Region demonstrated exceptional consistency and strength across the most competitive events. Throughout the season, East Region players recorded victories at the McEvoy Trophy, South of England Boys, South East Junior, and two Faldo Series events. The squad also celebrated multiple top-3 finishes at prestigious tournaments including the Spanish Boys, Carris Trophy, England U18s, West of England U18s, North of England U16s, and another McEvoy Trophy. A wealth of top-10 finishes at events such as the Berkhamsted, Lagonda, Berkshire Trophy, English Amateur, Tillman Trophy, and Fairhaven Trophy, further underlined the squad’s consistency. Success was shared across the squad rather than concentrated in one or two individuals, showcasing both the depth and strength of the East Region. Under the guidance of Chris Jenkins (pictured above left), Paul Prebble (above right), and Will Wayland, the team also embraced innovative performance tools such as Upgame, using data and feedback to refine training and tournament preparation. This approach translated into improved on-course decision-making and measurable performance gains. Girls’ Region of the Year – West Midlands |
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| The West Midlands was crowned Girls’ Region of the Year for 2024/25, recognising a season of hard work, impressive results, and outstanding player development. Throughout the year, the region celebrated remarkable progress, with players achieving significant handicap improvements and standout performances on the national stage. Among the highlights was Serafima Taylor, who captured the title of English Girls’ U16 Champion, and Arianna Virik (pictured above), who earned two England U16 call-ups, showcasing the region’s ability to nurture talent ready for international competition. Behind the success lies the dedication of Jason Davies, whose commitment to his role has been praised by players and parents alike. Supported by Ashley Jones’ encouragement and Ben Langdown’s strength and conditioning expertise, the coaching team has created a positive and high-performance environment where young athletes can thrive. The West Midlands’ consistent results, combined with its culture of support and development, make this accolade richly deserved. Coach of the Year – Rob Watts |
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| Rob Watts (pictured above) won the 2025 Coach of the Year award after an exceptional year of dedication, expertise, and his impact on the development of elite golfers. Watts’ relentless commitment to excellence has shaped a catalogue of high-performing athletes, both male and female, who have achieved success at the highest levels of the sport. His players have celebrated victories across multiple stages, including amateur events in the UK and Europe, U.S. college competitions, Clutch Tour, Hotel Planner Tour, Champions Tour, multiple LET titles, and an Asian Tour win. Under his mentorship, athletes have also competed at the pinnacle of golf, with appearances at The Open, Evian Championship, US Open, and the PGA Championship. Beyond individual success, Watts has guided England teams to remarkable achievements in 2025, securing four international victories – the Octagonal at Costa Ballena, European Nations Cup at Sotogrande, Spain vs England at La Galiana, and the Home Internationals at Woodhall Spa – alongside bronze medals at the European Team Championships in Killarney and the World Amateur Team Championship (Eisenhower Trophy) in Tanah Merah. Volunteer of the Year – Sue Ashworth |
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| England Golf is proud to recognise Sue Ashworth for her extraordinary dedication, kindness, and commitment, which have made a lasting impact across every level of the golfing community. For many years, Sue (pictured above) has given her time and energy selflessly, volunteering at club, county, regional, and national level. Her tireless contributions have strengthened the player pathway, supported golfers of all ages and abilities, and set an inspiring example of what it means to be a volunteer. A passionate advocate for junior golf, Sue has nurtured the next generation as a long-serving Regional Manager, ensuring young players are encouraged, supported, and given every opportunity to thrive. This year, she stepped in at the last minute to lead Buckinghamshire at the Women’s County Finals, and also served as Welfare Officer for the international team in Spain, the European Women’s Team, and the England U16s against Scotland. In her welfare role, Sue has offered guidance, empathy, and steadfast support, going above and beyond in challenging circumstances to create environments where players can perform at their best. Through every role, Sue has shown exceptional commitment, humility, and heart. Her quiet strength, generosity of spirit, and unwavering empathy remind us all of the profound difference volunteers make in shaping the future of the sport. Tony Moran – Annual Award for Excellence in Coaching |
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| Tony Moran (pictured above right) was awarded the Annual Award for Excellence in Coaching – a prestigious accolade which recognises individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the England Golf Performance Programme over many years. Tony’s career exemplifies dedication, leadership, and service to the game. His journey with England Golf began in November 2010, when he was appointed Assistant Regional Coaching Manager for the East Region. Soon after, he stepped up to lead both the Boys’ and Girls’ Regional Squads, guiding young talent with commitment and care. Following five successful years in the East, Tony was appointed England A Squad Manager, a role he held for six years, overseeing significant success until 2021 when the Men’s National Squads restructured to incorporate more U.S. college-based players. Since then, he has continued to serve the England Men’s Team as an independent selector, while also volunteering for team management opportunities whenever needed. His unwavering commitment has been instrumental in supporting players and shaping the future of English golf. This year, Tony announced his intention to step down from his selector role, marking the close of a long and fruitful career of volunteering within the England Golf Performance Programme. His legacy is defined by years of service, countless player successes, and an enduring impact on the pathway. |
