There were hard times, but Bertie Hoffman has proven there is nothing to beat sheer persistence.
The Hermanus Junior Golf Clinic held their 150th clinic the past weekend.
“Wow, where to start,” Hoffman said. “Memories, emotions and feelings overwhelm one. Times past have not been easy, what with Covid-19 and the lockdown. Hard times called for adapting and a new way of coaching. As these juniors started their journey of golf we started a new way forward. Their passion and commitment shone through when needed most. As I look back on how we have grown and developed the love of the game together, one sometimes pinches oneself.”
He says he loves what he’s doing and believes the small things make a difference. “When you coach you always remind yourself what a privilege you have and where you are, seeing potential and nurturing success. Many things in life come and go, but golf is a long-term sport and one has an opportunity to grow into something bigger.”
Hoffman said patience is truly a virtue. “Learning to understand the game and what it means is truly important, not just for golf, but for life as well,” he said.
For him it is important to teach young people that hard work pays off. “Hard work cannot be replaced, but to keep it fun is also an idea not to be sniffed at.”
He looks forward to the future and believes the golf clinic will continue going from strength to strength “The clinic has taken shape over the years and we look forward to what lies ahead. Our next milestone will be the 200th clinic.”
