FROM THE EDITOR
Welcome to the thirteenth issue of the Staffordshire Golfer, but don’t worry, reading this won’t bring you any bad luck!
The County season has finally come to a close after a long campaign for all Mens, Seniors and Junior age groups. We’re incredibly proud of what all our teams have achieved this season, and that the hard work we put in throughout the year has been rewarded by fantastic individual and team performances throughout the summer months.
We’re now looking forward to our winter programme starting, with focus being on all parts of a golfer’s game, from nutrition to core skills.
If you or your child would like to get involved with the County set up please get in touch, we’re always on the look out for new players to help push our teams to the next level. Email secretarys@staffsgolf.org.uk for further information.
With September seeing the end of our County competitions, we wrap up all of our season’s winners, highlighting our major competitions and our flagship event, the Champion of Champions at the incredible JCB Golf and Country Club.
We also spoke to Leek Golf Club professional Greg Rogula who has recently celebrated a decade in
THE TEAM AT STAFFORDSHIRE GOLFER
Editor and Production: Medi8 Golf – nathan@medi8ltd.co.uk
Editorial research: Gareth Shaw – secretary@staffsgolf.org.uk
Editorial research: Michael Entecott – michael.entecott@staffsgolf.org.uk
A MESSAGE FROM THE COUNTY SECRETARY
As we draw the curtain on another exciting season of golf in Staffordshire, I wanted to take this opportunity to reflect on the highlights of 2024 and express our gratitude to all those who made this year so successful.
Firstly, congratulations are in order for our Junior teams, who performed admirably throughout the season. Their dedication and skill were evident in every match, with some outstanding performances that have highlighted the future of Staffordshire golf. A special mention goes to all the coaches, parents, and volunteers who supported our Junior players every step of the way – your commitment is truly appreciated.
In addition to the success of our Juniors, 2024 saw a tremendous turnout across our County events, including the Staffordshire Amateur Championship, the Order of Merit, and the Men’s Senior Championships. It has been inspiring to witness such passion and talent from golfers of all ages, and we are particularly encouraged by the growth of Junior participation.
his position. He gives us an insight into what makes a successful Junior section, making the switch from Westwood and much more. We also highlight a fantastic hole-in-one, our Junior Order of Merit plus many more stories inside.
We’re already planning for Issue 14 and we’d love to include more stories from around our 47 Staffordshire Golf Clubs. This e-magazine is here to give your club the opportunity to shout about all the great things that are happening.
This could be anything. From course upgrades, special achievements or even that the bar has been painted! So get in touch, we’d love to hear your stories.
I would also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the club officials, volunteers, and everyone behind the scenes who contributed to the smooth running of our events and operations. Your hard work often goes unnoticed, but it is the backbone of our success as a County.
As we look ahead to 2025, I am confident that Staffordshire golf will continue to grow and thrive. Plans are already underway for next season’s competitions, and we aim to build on the momentum of this year’s achievements.
Thank you once again for your continued support and participation. Let’s carry this year’s successes forward and make 2025 an even greater season for Staffordshire golf.
IN THE CLUBHOUSE
James O’Keeffe had a hole-in-one on the par 3, 12th hole at Wolstanton Golf Club whilst playing for the Men’s 2nd team against Shropshire & Herefordshire. His first ever hole in one on a 215 yard par 3 where he hit 4 iron into a stiff breeze. This helped him to record a win for the team. Well done James on some great golf.
Looking to step up your headcover game? We’ve collaborated with Tidal Links to bring you some fantastic SUGC headcovers. Please get in touch with our County Secretary for more details: secretary@staffsgolf.org.uk
Congratulations to Alfie Warke for an incredible performance at the Paul McGinley Junior Trophy at Quinta do Lago! After a challenging start with a 1-over on day one, Alfie came back strong, finishing 3-under on day two, including a mind-blowing 6-under on the back 9 of the 36-hole, 6,395-yard course!
Congratulations to Leek Golf Club Juniors Lewis Foxall, Oliver Carter and Austin Rogula on finishing 2nd in the English Junior Club Championships Woodhall Spa Golf.
After winning the Staffordshire Qualifier they went to Woodhall Spa to play in the finals against 32 other Counties.
They finished day 1 in 5th place but moved up the leaderboard after day 2.
We’ve been at Staffordshire University for their Welcome Week. It was great to welcome new golfers to the County and showcase some of our amazing clubs and facilities.
CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS
67 players representing the Junior, Men and Senior Champions from Staffordshire Union affiliated golf clubs played for the second edition of the Champion of Champions on 21st September. The day began in bright, blustery conditions at the prestigious JCB Golf and Country Club who had recently hosted the UK leg of the LIV golf tournament.
The Junior competition was a keenly fought affair, with four boys being in the hunt for the Championship. At the half way point, Oliver Badger, with a score of one over par for nine holes, held a one shot lead over his closest rivals, Alfie Turner, Jayden Phipps and Zac Chamberlain.
Oliver, Alfie and Jayden were locked together until the 16th hole where a fine birdie gave Oliver the lead. Everyone still had the challenging, long par 3 17th hole to contend with, that had caused many players trouble all day. An impressive par on the 17th and a birdie on the 18th was enough to see Zac Chamberlain win the Junior competition by one shot.
Sadly, as the weather closed in during the afternoon, the men and the senior competitions were reduced to 9 holes. Play was first suspended at just after 4:15pm due to thunder and lightning, which was followed by torrential rain. The competitions were finally abandoned for the day at 5pm. The thunder and lightning continued into the early evening, along with torrential rain.
All players in the Men and Senior competitions had managed to complete at least 9 holes. It was decided that the results were to be taken from the first 9 holes of the round.
The Men’s competition was won by James O’Keeffe (Trentham GC) with a level par score of 36, closely
followed by Ryan Wells (Druids Heath GC) with a score of 37. Third was Oliver Clews (Ingestre Park GC) on 38. Three other players also finished with a score of 38.
The Senior competition was won by Derek Verey (Beau Desert GC) with a one over par score of 37. Runner up with a score of 39 was Robert Parkes (Trentham GC). John Hall (Brocton Hall GC) with 40 came third, leading four other players on the same score.
It really was a pity that the complete field could not have finished the 18 holes. The organisers would like to thank the two referees and all of the helpers that made the day such a resounding success. As usual, JCB was the perfect host and the County
Union is indebted to them for the use of the course and its excellent facilities.
Gareth Shaw, County Secretary said: “We were absolutely delighted that JCB Golf and Country Club had once again allowed us to host one of the most prestigious events of the County calendar here.
It’s a fantastic golfing experience for all of our club champions, it was just unfortunate that we couldn’t manage to play the Men’s and Senior competitions but the weather
has thrown up similar challenges all season.
The quality of golf on show was fantastic and the course was in great condition despite the weather. On behalf of everyone in the County set up I would like to congratulate all three of our winners!”
The three trophies are named in honour of the three people who dedicated so much of their lives to Staffordshire Golf. The Men’s, Ivan Forster Salver. Ivan was President of the County Union in 1988 and 1989.
The Senior’s, John Keen Salver. John was County President in 2006 and 2007. The Junior’s Mike Tunnicliffe Salver is dedicated to the memory of Michael Tunnifcliffe who did so much to promote the growth of Junior golf in the County.
L-R Derek Verey James O’Keeffe
Andrew Dathan Zac Chamberlain Zac Chamberlain - Junior Winner
James O’Keeffe - Men’s Winner
Derek Verey - Senior Winner
A DECADE OF PROGRESS WITH GREG ROGULA
In this podcast, we chat with Greg Rogula, head professional at Leek Golf Club, about his journey in golf, his career highlights, and his work with the Junior section at the club.
Gareth Shaw: How did you get into the game?
Greg Rogula: I must have been about 7 or 8. My dad, he’s a golfer at Wolstanton, took me to the driving range to see an old pro called John Kirk. I had a few lessons there, but I didn’t really take to it at first. Then when I was about 11, my dad was joining Wolstanton from Goldenhill and asked if I wanted to be put on the waiting list. I got in, and from that point on, I was playing every day. I’ve never really stopped.
G.S: Did you play any other sports?
G.R: Not really, no. I played a bit of squash, tried to keep fit, but nothing major that got in the way of golf. I played football at school, but golf was always the main thing.
G.S: Did you just keep chipping away at the handicap? When did
a career in golf come into your thoughts?
G.R: I think I was off about 2 when I was 16 and played for the County. Then I went off to college. I didn’t really see golf as a career at that point until a guy from Barnsley moved to Westwood Golf Club. He rang the Pro at Wolstanton and asked if he knew anyone who might suit the job. I went down for an interview, and they offered me the job on the spot. That’s what got me right back into golf.
G.S: Did you have any idea what you wanted to do before that came about?
G.R: Not really. I was doing sports science at college, so I figured I’d do something sports-related. I thought I could do something with golf, but not as a player because the standard needed to be at that level was always incredibly high.
G.S: From knowing you over the years, everywhere you’ve been, you’ve tried to modernise the golfing environment, especially on the retail side. Is that something you’ve always been passionate about?
G.R: Yeah, I like the retail side, but I’m also quite social. I love playing with the members and chatting with them every day. I’ve made loads of friends through golf. I just love the whole environment, from playing to coaching, to the everyday life at the club.
G.S: Was it daunting going into Westwood for the first time?
G.R: Not really, because it was an assistant job. I was only 17 at the time, so it was my first proper job. It wasn’t much of an interview just, “Hi, I’m Greg. Can you start Monday?” But moving from Westwood to
Leek was more daunting, especially because they’re just across the road. That interview process was more involved.
G.S: Were you apprehensive about making the move to Leek?
G.R: Yes, definitely. You always wonder if the grass is greener. I had a great time at Westwood for 10 years, but with a young family, the move made sense. The membership at Leek was bigger, and it was just the right decision for us.
G.S: What have you learned during your time at Leek?
G.R: A lot. I’ve learned more about running a business, managing people, and balancing the social side of the game with the more serious competitive side. It’s been a steep learning curve, but a really enjoyable one.
G.S: What would you say your career highlight has been so far?
G.R: It’s hard to pick one. Playing County golf was great. But I think the highlight has been growing the Junior section at both Westwood and now at Leek. Seeing the kids improve and enjoy the game is incredibly rewarding.
G.S: Something that stood out for me as County secretary is the way you’ve grown the Junior section here. Did that start at Westwood, or did it really kick off when you moved here?
G.R: We started at Westwood, where we had a lot of Juniors. But just before COVID, we noticed golf was dwindling, and Junior memberships were going down. When I moved here, it was the same situation. We had a strong section, but it needed a boost. After COVID, we lost some older Juniors, but the younger ones have really come on. Now, the Junior section is thriving again.
G.S: It seems like you’ve created a golfing family here. Is that what it’s all about for you?
G.R: Absolutely. The Juniors started playing together, and now their
parents are friends too. It’s become one big family, and that’s what makes it special. Everyone’s involved, from the kids to the parents, and they all support each other.
G.S: How do you keep Juniors interested, especially during the winter months?
G.R: We have a full competition schedule that runs pretty much all year round. We’ve got Matt Picken as Junior organiser, who’s doing a fantastic job. We also run a winter league, and I do coaching on Saturday mornings. Parents are key as well — they’ve got to be involved for it to work.
more time for Juniors to get out on the course.
G.S: What advice would you give to Junior organisers or pros trying to build a Junior section?
G.R: Make it fun, build friendships, and get the kids out on the course as quickly as possible. It doesn’t matter how they play at first — just get them playing. We have three divisions for Juniors, starting with shorter courses and working up to full 18-hole competitions. It gives them something to aim for and keeps them motivated.
G.S: Were you expecting the rise to success for your son and the other Juniors?
G.R: Honestly, no. My son was all about football at first. But once he joined one of the Saturday morning competitions, he met friends, and that was it. Now, Saturday is his golf day. He’s even working in the shop with me sometimes. It’s great to see.
G.S: Do you think attitudes towards Juniors in golf have changed since you were younger?
G.R: Definitely. When I was a kid, Juniors couldn’t put a foot out of line without causing problems. Now, it’s much more relaxed. The adults are more welcoming, and there’s
G.S: For you, what’s next?
G.R: I can’t see myself moving from Leek. I love the club and want to keep building the Junior section. We’re also focusing on growing the Ladies’ section. We’ve had some success with events like “Women on Par,” which brought in 7 to 10 new lady members. The course is in fantastic condition, and that alone brings people in. There’s still a lot of exciting work ahead. If you want to listen to this episode, and catch up on any that you may have missed you can stay up to date by subscribing on Spotify or by clicking the link below.
SEASON REVIEW
The 2024 golfing season has finally drawn to a close and with it a mixed bag of results for the Staffordshire County teams.
Team wise, the Men’s second team came within a whisker of winning their league, finally settling for third place. The match against Warwickshire was crucial. If one of the three halved matches had resulted in a win it would have lifted Staffordshire from third place to first. It may have come down to one putt.
The Under 18 team went through the season undefeated and comfortably won the West Midland League. Unfortunately, the team lost to the East Midland champions, Cambridgeshire by the narrow margin of 5.5 to 6.5 at Gog Magog
Golf Club in early October. This was their only loss in 2024.
The Under 16 team were runners up in their league losing out to Shropshire and Herefordshire. Meanwhile, the Under 14 team won the 4 Counties, a competition that in recent years they have had success.
The flagship event, the Staffordshire Amateur was won by Ronnie Groves (South Staffordshire GC) with a score of 141, from Tom Hewitt (South Staffordshire GC) 3 shots behind. The Legge Trophy (Nett competition) was also won by Ronnie Groves on count back from David Foley (The Chase GC). The Scarf Shield (Team) was won by
The South Staffordshire team represented the County at the England Golf Champion Club, finishing second, one shot behind the winners. Ronnie Groves finished 4th in the individual and Tom Hewitt tied 5th. Overall a good result for the Staffordshire club.
Other notable performances during 2024. Leek Golf Club represented Staffordshire in the English Junior Club Championship, finishing 2nd and Oliver Carter winning the individual competition. Ronnie Groves finished tied 7th in the Carris Trophy. Jayden Phipps finished 6th in the Junior Champion of
The South Staffordshire Golf Club.
Champions and Paul Griffiths tied 10th in the Senior competition events at Woodhall Spa.
Alfie Turner (Trentham GC) capped a fine year being the Junior champion and followed this by becoming the youngest ever winner of the Trentham Punchbowl. Another notable achievement was James O’Keeffe having a hole in one in the county match against Shropshire and Herefordshire. James also won the Champion of Champions at JCB in the Mens category, along with Derek Verey in the Senior category and Zac Chamberlain, Juniors.
Andrew Dathan and Roger Howarth, two of our County referees, were to be found at the LIV tournament held at JCB and at the English Men’s County Finals, while the Staffordshire course rating team has been busy, working at 10 of our affiliated golf clubs.
The Board of the SUGC would like to thank all of our affiliated golf clubs for hosting our events and to all of our officials and volunteers who help to keep the County running, a huge, thank you.
2024 CHAMPIONSHIP WINNERS
Beddows Trophy - Paul Griffiths & Guy Cheema (Nett)
Geoff Marks Trophy - Trevor Mellings
Senior Championship - Paul Griffiths
Beddows Trophy - Simon Higgins & Oliver Perks (Gross)
James Beattie Salver, Legge Cup, Britannia Cup, Scarf Shield - Ronnie Groves
Senior Matchplay Championship - David Westwood
Champion of Champions - Derek Verey (Senior
Junior Club Championship - Leek Golf Club
Staffordshire Amateur Ronnie Groves
Champions (Senior Winner)
Champion of Champions
- James O’Keeffe (Mens Winner)
Junior Order of Merit - Luke Sherwin (Nett) & Alfie Turner (Gross)
Staffordshire Boys Championship - Jayden Phillips (U18 Gross)
Champion of Champions
- Zac Chamberlain (Junior Winner)
Men’s Matchplay Championship
- Alfie Turner
Staffordshire Boys ChampionshipLewis Foxall (U16 gross)
2024 CHAMPIONSHIP WINNERS
Staffordshire Schools Championshp - Lewis Foxall
The Cox and Thomas Senior Championship - S. Leahey & M. Kirkbride (Nett) & J. Haynes and J. Harris (Gross)
Tee It Forward - Albie Carter (Nett) & Mylo Rafferty (Gross)
Trentham Punch Bowl - Alfie Turner
U18’S CROWNED CHAMPIONS
Staffordshire Union of Golf Clubs U18 County Squad have been crowned Champions of their West Midland U18 League, completing a remarkable turn around in just a year after finishing last in 2023.
We’re delighted to make Penn Golf Club our home venue for all of our Junior County matches next season. We’re hopeful that having a home venue where our squads will comfortable we will be able to follow up the successes of this year heading into 2025.
The young golfers had a season to be proud of having gone unbeaten in all four of their matches against Warwickshire, Shropshire & Herefordshire, Worcestershire and last years champions Derbyshire.
We travelled to Arscott Golf Club for our first match of the season, winning comfortably away at Shropshire & Herefordshire 8 – 4. Our remaining matches of the season were all won by a single point, with the team coming out on top of the remaining matches 6.5 – 5.5
Michael Entecott, Chairman of the Union, said: “We’re absolutely delighted with the form of our U18 side throughout the season, unfortunately they fell just short in the Championship match against Cambridgeshire, but to win the league is a fantastic achievement.
as they go off into their adult life but they will always be welcome at County events and competitions.”
All the players have represented the County with great pride and have shown maturity both on and off the golf course. We will be saying goodbye to some members of the squad
County Secretary, Gareth Shaw commented: “I’m absolutely buzzing for all the lads! You don’t get to celebrate much in golf with your teammates so to give them this experience is one that they hopefully remember for many years!
After finishing last in 2023 we dedicated a lot of time to our Junior programmes over the winter period
and this has shown to the guys that you get the returns if you put in the hard work. We can’t wait to see what the future has in store for all our junior golfers.
If your child wants to get involved with County programmes then please get in touch!”
WINTER GOLF: HANDICAP CHECKLIST
Get ready to take on winter golf with our handy handicap checklist! The game doesn’t stop when the temperature drops, and neither should your scores. Keep submitting your rounds for handicapping all season long—here’s how! Click the link
Tee Sets & Yardage Compliance
For your score to count, play on officially measured and rated tees. Tees must be registered with England Golf and set within specific yardage limits. Whether you’re teeing off in frosty conditions or sunny skies, make sure you’re compliant!
Preferred Lies Period
From October 1st to April 30th, take advantage of the preferred lies rule! Extend your season and make sure all players know the score about where and when they can move their ball.
The 300 Yards Rule
If course work or winter conditions change the yardage by more than 100 but less than 300 yards, a ‘Temporary Rating’ is your friend. Make sure your club submits it to England Golf for approval, and you’re good to go!
Fairway Mats & Bunker Rules
Using mats to protect the course? No worries! You can still submit your scores. And if those bunkers are more water hazards than sand traps, they can be declared GUR (Ground Under Repair) without penalty.
No Winter Handicaps
Gone are the days of separate “winter handicaps.” Your one handicap works year-round—keep submitting those scores even when it’s cold!
Temporary Greens & Closed Holes
Two temporary greens are allowed, and closed holes won’t stop you from submitting scores. Your game stays intact even when the course isn’t!
Stay ahead of the game this winter—follow these simple steps to ensure your golf rounds count towards your handicap. Let’s keep swinging through winter!
EXCLUSIVE TRADE OFFER FOR STAFFS GOLF CLUBS
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To place your order, simply visit www.spurkgolf.co.uk, click LOG IN, and then REGISTER using your preferred email address and password. Once they’ve received your registration, they’ll verify your details and approve your account, confirming via email.
WHAT’S THE RULING?
If you find your ball embedded anywhere in the general area, but not in a bunker or penalty area you can:
A) Play the ball as it lies
B) Take free relief of one club length but no nearer the hole
C) Re tee the ball from where it is embedded and play from there
See back page for the answer
Is there someone at your club that goes above and beyond? Has there been a hole-in-one or an exceptional score? Do you have a special event happening in the coming months? Have you redecorated the clubhouse?
We want to know! Let us know of anything exciting going on at your club and we’ll try and find a spot in the next edition! E-mail: secretary@staffsgolf.org.uk
Click here for more information on the SUGC
Make sure you’re following us on social media to keep up with all the latest news from around Staffordshire: @staffsgolfclubs
@staffsgolfclubs
Staffordshire Golf Union
www.staffsgolf.co.uk
Answer: B - Take free relief of one club length but no nearer the hole.