Twelve firms across the region are backing the launch of the first ever national golf academy designed specifically to provide mental performance coaching to future stars of the game.

The new academy launched by Leeds-based Underpin Sports is uniquely focussed on improving the mental strength of amateur golfers in the early stages of their career - providing the foundations needed for them to achieve their goals and dreams of succeeding at the highest level of the professional game.

Geared to help future Rory Mcllroys and Georgia Halls achieve their full potential, the academy is led by Underpin’s head coach Greg Robertson, whilst the financial costs of each player’s coaching is funded by the company’s network of corporate sponsors across Yorkshire.

Firms backing the academy include Guiseley-based IT reseller and telecommunications business Just Ask Eden, Ilkley-based commercial finance brokers CFP Group and travel agent Tivoli Travel, located in Mirfield and Holmfirth.

The Underpin Sports Academy is just one of two ways businesses can support the delivery of mental performance coaching across grass roots and professional golf. The entry-level academy complements Underpin’s established 72 Club which enables corporate members to benefit from bespoke golf and business events through to commercial networking opportunities.

Founder and head coach of Underpin Sports, Greg Robertson said: “We’re really excited to be launching the first ever national golfing academy dedicated to improving the mental performance of amateur golfers at the very start of their career.

“Having the right mental approach to handle high-pressure situations out on the course is essential at any age, however particularly within young players who have less experience and are not always equipped to handle the psychological challenges they’ll inevitably face."

"The first five players already enrolled in the new academy include Sam Norman (17) who plays off +2 at Fulford Golf Club in North Yorkshire and was crowned St. Andrews Boys Open Champion last year. Another academy starlet is Amy Staveley (17) who plays off +2 at Ganton Golf Club which is situated just outside Scarborough."

Greg added: “We’d like to extend a massive thanks to those corporate sponsors across the region that are already helping fund the academy and play their part in giving future stars the mental performance building blocks needed to turn pro and hopefully reach the very top of the professional game.”

The Underpin Academy has ambitious growth plans and aims to recruit 20 players and 50 corporate sponsors within the next five years. Other businesses looking to support the academy and future stars of the game can become a corporate sponsor for just £100 a month.