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For Nayan Arantxa Murdoch, golf has been a fixture in her life from a very young age; and as soon as she starts talking about the sport or you get her anywhere near a golf course, it doesn't take long before a smile comes across her face. The joy she has for golf isn't just a result of the success she has experienced over the years. It is also because her involvement in the game has allowed her to develop skills, character traits and relationships that have helped shape her into the wonderful leader she is today. Nayan set aside some time to share with us, how she got into the sport, how she has grown as a result of playing golf and why she wanted to start coaching youth.
Who or what led you to the game of golf?
I was introduced to the sport around the age of four. My father and grandfather were both big fans of the game, and I took to it very quickly.
At what age did you fall in love with the game and decide to focus on developing your skills?
Falling in love with game came pretty quickly after I started playing. I was lucky enough to be very successful at a young age, so I guess as soon as my coaches and I realized I could have a future in the game, all of my time became dedicated to the craft.
Beyond the fundamentals of golf, what other skills/lessons have you gained through the sport?
Through the game of golf I adopted many attributes, including patience, honesty and determination. The values one acquires through this sport, such as responsibility and integrity, have also allowed me to thrive. As a junior golfer you don’t actively realize the way the game is shaping you. However, looking back, it's evident I have so much to thank the game of golf for.
One of the greatest things about golf is that it is a breeding ground for lifelong friends.
What impact has playing golf had on your confidence and overall physical and mental health?
As an athlete, it is crucial to learn how to take care of your body and mind. Golf helped me to find different ways to nurture my physical body and mental health from a young age, which in turn allows for my confidence to grow every day.
Even though golf is an individual sport, how has the game allowed you to develop new relationships?
One of the greatest things about golf is that it is a breeding ground for lifelong friends. It’s pretty hard not to get to know someone in the span of a four-hour round!
What made you want to coach kids?
Junior golf has made me who I am today, and the opportunities I’ve been fortunate enough to have are unforgettable. It’s important for me to give back now, and help kids reach their potential.
How would you describe your teaching style and what do love about coaching?
Simplicity is key in my eyes. The more technical the teacher, the harder it is to understand golf. As for what I love about coaching? There’s something very special about helping someone overcome a challenge. And, let’s face it, golf is one of the greatest challenges on Earth.
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Looking for a sport that will help your child learn life skills and positive values at the same time? The First Tee of Greater Vancouver program runs camps for kids ages 6-17 at the following locations:
2018 Summer Day Camp
The Y at Birdies and Buckets (Surrey)
The Y at Queen Elizabeth Pitch and Putt (Vancouver)
The Y at Rupert Park Pitch and Putt (Vancouver)
For more details and to register, click HERE!
