Durham teenager Jamie Jopling has picked up the first Hero’s Handshake award of 2022.
The award is presented by England Golf and the Golf Foundation’s Young Ambassadors in recognition of the behind-the-scenes work carried out by young volunteers or those who champion juniors in the game.
Jamie, a keen golfer at Ramside Golf Club, impressed the judges with his dedication to encouraging others at his club and in speaking openly and positively about living with autism since diagnosis at the age of four.
Through his social media accounts, Jamie is happy to talk about his journey in golf and highlight the challenges he faces and overcomes in a bid to encourage others to follow suit.
The 14-year-old is driven to be the best he can be, to help his fellow juniors and also make his mark with the adult members at Ramside.
After being presented with a trophy and a certificate to mark his contribution to the game by the Golf Foundation’s Ian Harvey, Jamie admitted: “I am happy and a little bit overwhelmed to have won this award.
“It was the best surprise…..it really does make everything worthwhile.
“My aim now is to kick on and hopefully become a scratch golfer by the age of 16!”
Coach Robert Lister admitted it’s been a pleasure to watch the youngster develop on and off the course in recent years.
Although always keen to help others, Jamie has not neglected his own practice sessions.
These paid off with a success in the Men’s Spring Stableford at his club with a points tally of 41.
Last year, Jamie was part of the Ramside team which was crowned England Golf’s Junior Champion Club after winning the national finals at Woodhall Spa.
· For more details on the Hero’s Handshake award, including how to nominate an individual for recognition, visit the Young Ambassadors’ homepage on the England Golf website.
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