New appointment: Jody Fleming has recently been announced as Rich River Golf Club's head teaching professional. Photo: Rich River Golf Club.
Rich River Golf Club has recently announced Jody Fleming as its head teaching professional.
Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content
Starting at the age of 10 on the Mornington Peninsula, Fleming played with her parents and sister before progressing through the amateur ranks, which eventually opened up opportunities to play in Victorian state teams then train with the Australian Institute of Sport.
Fleming turned pro at 23 years old and played on tour for six years in locations such as Asia, Australia and the US, winning the Texas Open in 2012.
Stepping away from the tour, Fleming went on to complete a bridging course through the PGA and is now a PGA member, finding her passion for coaching.
“My passion now is getting golf going, getting the grassroots of golf coming back through,” she said.
“Rich River has a great line of juniors coming out to the club and enjoying the game. You see them on the range from sun up to sun down.
“It’s what I want to see, the kids progressing through to also have those opportunities I had. I would also like to see more women come and try golf.
“Bringing a friend along or meeting new people, it’s a great way to socialise while learning the skills to get out on the course.
“I want to create an environment that isn’t intimidating and that’s open for anyone to come here, have a go and enjoy the game I love.”
Fleming has worked as a golf and teaching professional at a number of golf clubs and facilities in Australia including The Australian Golf Club, Elanora Country Club, Lane Cove Country Club and Long Reef Golf Club.
Wasting no time: Jody Fleming has already started imparting her professional knowledge on the members at Rich River. Photo: Rich River Golf Club.
Recently announced Rich River president Susan Hull said Fleming was a fantastic addition to the club, which remained committed to furthering the inclusion of women in golf.
“Rich River Golf Club is excited about the announcement of Jody as the head teaching professional,” she said.
“In March this year, Rich River Golf Club announced the signing of the Women in Golf Charter, the first club in NSW to do so. The signing is Rich River Golf Club’s commitment to progress the sport and career opportunities golf presents to women of all ages.
“We are very fortunate to have Jody, along with outstanding facilities, to progress the Women in Golf Charter for the club.”
Rich River director for golf Steve Loader said the club was already feeling the benefits of Fleming’s appointment.
“Jody’s enthusiasm and passion for the game has been infectious for our entire golf operations team, and especially her connection with members and new players to the game,” he said.
“Her ability to make new golfers feel comfortable and build confidence quickly, is one of her many quality traits as a golf coach. We are excited to welcome her to the team in this role and look forward to what she will bring to the club and the community.”
Clinics are now being organised and will be running soon for anyone to join. They will cover bunkers and chipping, putting, drivers and woods and an on-course management session.
Fleming will be teaching Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday through private hour lessons. Rich River Golf Club members can book online, or if you are new to golf and want to find out more about the clinics, contact the pro shop on 5481 3372.