The Cornwall Junior Development Academy programme for 2016 got underway last weekend with sessions at St Mellion, St Austell, the Point at Polzeath and Truro.

Director of Junior Coaching Matt Tucknott has structured and overseen preparation for a total of 30 sessions to be delivered to 6 different playing level and age based groups at venues across the entire county, involving 13 of the Duchy's 33 affiliated clubs.

The programme will see an emphasis on longer term junior development with peak performance being a key target. In seeking to achieve this there are some key and experienced personnel involved and who will be adding value to some of the individual sessions.

Amongst others, England Golf psychologist Dan Abrahams, a key member of the recent GB&I winning Walker Cup team's backroom staff will be involved as will James Ruth (China Fleet) and Ross Whitelock (St Mellion), both of whom have European Tour experience. Other outside county specialists will also take part with dietary advice, fitness coaching and mental approach all featuring.

Matt Tucknott said 'Following on from the success of last year's programme we have reviewed the feedback received and have made considerable improvements - like less traveling where possible and more emphasis on player performance. Above all we want to be moving forward as one coherent unit. I am keen to see a more holistic approach to the process and I feel that this year we are building towards that'.

Twenty of the county's clubs have juniors involved in the programme with the lowest handicap being 0.7 and the youngest junior just 8 years old.

Full Timetable of Sessions 2016