Golf Equipment for Physical Education Classes

Impact to My Classroom

# of Students Impacted: 350

Overall, the golf equipment has been a huge hit with our 350+ 4th and 5th grade students.  I was hoping to include third grade as well, but even the junior clubs are just a little too long for most of them. Having the golf equipment has allowed me to extend and enhance my teaching of physical education to students and to continue to encourage lifelong fitness and finding recreational (physical) activities that interest them.  In addition, some of our students already have experience playing golf with friends and families and it allowed me to strengthen the school and home connection and to allow these students to be leaders and to support others through peer coaching/tutoring.  As a matter of fact, some of our students actually hit the ball better than me and I've been playing golf for over 25 years!  I think the most rewarding part of utilizing the golf equipment in my physical education classes was watching students who were struggling with the mechanics of the golf swing when they finally hit a pure shot!  They were so excited and that spread to the others around them who were applauding and cheering them on, building stronger unity among the students.  Similarly, not only sharing the "rules" of the game of golf, but also the etiquette and respect for others and their personal space has been very rewarding.  The game of golf is an excellent model for sharing the importance of mutual respect, honesty, and collegiality among friends,family, and even strangers.  Throughout this process, I've been able to share our progress within our school community and even via social media.  In fact, many of our golfing families have donated real golf balls for our extension activities outdoors, beyond the skills learning inside using our grant-funded indoor foam balls!  In time, I'd like to build an after golf club for our students, with the culmination of the program being a field trip to actually play at a par 3 course with the students.  I greatly appreciate the opportunities this grant has provided for my physical education students.  Thank you so much for your kindness, support of our school/comminty, and generosity.