A group of 15 aspiring young golfers from Soweto, Alexandra and surrounding areas experienced what many might call a “dream come true” moment when they had the rare opportunity to be coached by professional golfers during the Joburg Open coaching clinic.
The City of Johannesburg, in partnership with Sunshine Tour and DP World Tour, hosted the youngsters at the Houghton Golf Club on Wednesday, 4 March 2026, where the prestigious international golf tournament Joburg Open, is underway this week.
The coaching clinic aimed to give children from disadvantaged communities exposure to golf while helping them improve their skills. For many of them it was their first time at the Houghton Golf Course and interacting with professional players.
Tshepo Mokoena, Coaching Manager at the South African Golf Development Board, says the children could hardly contain their excitement on their way to the coaching clinic.
“This is a dream come true for most of them, and many are from townships. Most of them have never been on this course. It’s such a great privilege for them to be out and seeing positive people doing positive things,” Mokoena says.
Mokoena adds that initiatives like this are important in growing the sport and showing young players that opportunities exist beyond their communities.
His son, Tshidiso Mokoena (8) was among the children who took part in the coaching clinic. The young golfer said the experience taught him a lot and would help him as he continues developing his game. “I learned a lot,” he said.
What he enjoys most about golf is “practicing, shooting balls and getting first place.” His favourite golfers are Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy. He started playing golf at 5 years old and has won tournaments like SA Kids, and Little Juniors.
Swedish professional golfer Tobias Jonsson, who helped coach the youngsters, said the session was both enjoyable and rewarding. “It was a lot of fun. It’s the first time for me doing something like this. I saw some good progress during the time we spent together. It’s great to see young players enjoying the game.”
The Joburg Open officially teed off on Thursday morning when 10-year-old rising star Tshiamo Makamedi, who also attended the coaching clinic, made history as he launched the opening shot.
General access tickets for Thursday and Friday cost R100. Tickets for Saturday and Sunday cost R150. Tickets are available for purchase at Sunshine Tour Events.
SUPPLIED.
