Students and physical education teachers in several Saskatoon schools are getting into golf thanks to the ‘Golf in School (GIS)’ program offered by Golf Saskatchewan.
Indoor golf kits are available for gym class teachers across Saskatchewan, the kits come with a cost but grants and sponsorships are available for interested educators. Saskatoon’s Sutherland School phys. ed. teacher Jennifer Buettner has had a GIS at every school she’s worked at over a ten year career. She said the kit is fantastic for her courses.
“Physical education teachers need to offer a variety of activities, not just the typical sport model. We need to teach our students to be life-long, active movers therefore we need to offer a variety of activities. When the GIS was in my equipment room I was quick to use it. I am a golfer so it helps with my confidence to pick up a kit and know what to do with it,” she said.
The kits include indoor based clubs and balls. Golf Saskatchewan professional Steve Ryde is delivering kits to several schools. Buettner said Ryde’s interaction is fantastic.
“Anytime somebody new comes in the students are that much more eager to learn from them and seeing what they are engaged with in their love. I’m passionate about physical education but when some can come in and is passionate about their area or passion it shines through and Steve did that,” she said.
Buettner couldn’t explain how the GIS kit was incorporated into her current school inventory but she has always had it at her disposal over a ten-year teaching career. She said teachers need to dig into the GIS program.
“Go to your principal or find a grant to try and get kids into their programs. The more that students are outside and engaged in outdoor activities in golf it’s worth it. Find the means to get these kits in schools and get kids active in outdoor activities,” she said.
Call Ryde at 306.975.0834 for more information on the GIS program.
