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Cottingham is PGA Teaching Pro of the Year

Cottingham is PGA Teaching Pro of the Year

Date: 2015-02-27

Mount Edgecombe Country Club's Steve Cottingham has achieved a first in his career as a PGA professional, having recently been voted the PGA of South Africa's Teaching Professional of the Year.

The annual PGA of South Africa Awards celebrates those professionals who have made a real impact in the game at their respective golf facilities. "This is a huge honour, especially when you consider that there are so many great golf teachers in our country," said Cottingham, who has taught in Germany and Switzerland and now bases himself at Mount Edgecombe.

"Having your efforts in your career being validated is both humbling and motivating.In receiving this award I realise that I have to endeavour to set the right example for younger PGA Professionals who aspire to teach the game at the highest level and to continue to improve my own knowledge and expertise."

Cottingham describes his own teaching philosophy as one of, "Those who dare to teach should never cease to learn".

"I have been fortunate to have spent several years teaching alongside some of the finest teachers from around the worldand have experienced many different approaches to helping golfers play better and enjoy the game more."I realised quite a few years ago that one of the main responsibilities of the PGA Professional is to promote and teach the game of golf, and in this regard I feel I have made a positive difference in our community.

"As the Head Teaching Professional at the Mt Edgecombe Golf Academy I have made sure that we run a vibrant junior programme and that we deliver specialised courses designed to help adults learn the game, as well as making sure that our existing golfers are continually improving.

"We are also in the fortunate position to be able to sponsor several development projects for previously disadvantaged communities."

Ivano Ficalbi, the Chief Executive of the PGA of South Africa, said, "Steve must be congratulated for his commitment to the PGA, its Members and the game of golf. He manages an excellent operation and is a very deserving winner."