OAKVILLE, Ontario, July 21, 2009 - On behalf of the Honourable Gary Lunn, Minister of State (Sport), Terence Young, Member of Parliament (Oakville), today announced funding for the Royal Canadian Golf Association (RCGA) which will be used in part to develop young golfers.
"Our Government is proud to support the Royal Canadian Golf Association and its efforts to build the sport of golf in this country," said Minister of State Lunn. "This funding will provide our young and emerging athletes and coaches with the resources they need to hone their skills and prepare them to be their very best. There is no doubt that today's duffers are tomorrow's champions."
"I am pleased that our Government is providing this funding to the Royal Canadian Golf Association," said Mr. Young. "The RCGA does excellent work in promoting the growth of this popular sport in Canada and is committed to promoting golf to Canadians of all ages and levels."
The RCGA is the national sport organization for golf in Canada. Its mandate is to enhance participation, excellence, capacity, and interaction in golf. With the assistance of Sport Canada and sport specialists, the Association has developed a Long Term Player Development (LTPD) framework. The LTPD framework will help guide the RCGA when developing programs, from introducing the game all the way to preparing Canada's best athletes to compete on the international stage.
"The RCGA appreciates the Government of Canada support as we work to improve all aspects of the game for participants of all ages," said Scott Simmons, RCGA Executive Director and CEO. "This funding will help us introduce more people to the game of golf in Canada as well as bolster our efforts in developing young athletes across the country as part of our investment into competitive excellence."
The Government of Canada believes that sport strengthens individuals by helping them develop teamwork, discipline and commitment. Sport participation also fosters a strong sense of community by bringing together people of all ages and backgrounds.
The Department of Canadian Heritage is providing funding of $715,000 to the Royal Canadian Golf Association through its Sport Support Program which is aimed at developing athletes and coaches.
Michelle Yao
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Gary Lunn, P.C., M.P.
Minister of State (Sport)
819-934-1131
Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
