TBO.com - TBO is Tampa Bay Online

Golf Academy Drives Students' Interest

ADVERTISEMENT

By KATHY STEELE | The Tampa Tribune

Published: November 7, 2007

TAMPA - There's a bit of competition that drives Franklin Middle Magnet School's sixth- and seventh-graders when they tee up on a driving range.

About 18 students are enrolled in the East Tampa school's golf academy. Sixth-grade teacher Sean Farrell - who has applied for U.S. Golf Association certification - instructs them on the rules and etiquette of the more than 500-year-old game.

On a recent afternoon, students were outside swinging irons and drivers, digging up divots. A practice area about 100 yards long, behind the school, could be ready soon.

On some days, students head to Rogers Park Golf Course off 30th Street to practice on the driving range or putting green.

Golfing costs can put the sport out of reach of some at Franklin Middle, 3915 21st Ave., where nearly 90 percent of youngsters qualify for free meals.

Farrell and others have donated clubs and golf shirts. Twenty-five golf bags and clubs are on order for the academy, which also has support from area golf shops and a coach from Jennings Middle School. Rogers Park makes golf balls available at a discount.

The First Tee of Tampa Bay also is providing support. The group is an affiliate of a national organization that provides golf instruction, camps, and tournaments for boys and girls.

Share this:

Loading Comments...

Email Print

ADVERTISEMENT