SO often new mothers feel isolated and disconnected from their friends, work and hobbies.
It is a problem for young mums around the world and in some cases can lead to postnatal depression.
Now progressive thinking women who are members at the beautiful 13th Beach complex at Barwon Heads on the Bellarine Peninsula have come up with a solution.
Inspired by club teaching professionals Robyn Sottile, they have developed the Clubs and Bubs program.
Clubs and Bubs at 13th Beach has brought new parents together in creating friendships and connections.
It is open for any new parents (not just members) who are interested in getting out and about with their new baby and trying golf, not only as a way of learning a little more about the game but also meeting other new parents. The emphasis is on fun and connection. It is open to new fathers too and costs just $25.
Already the scheme is proving to be wildly successful. It provides hourly clinics two days a week. But you come to individual classes when you can. You don’t have to commit to coming all the time. Groups are kept small and limited to classes of eight.
And of course, you bring your baby with you.
What’s even better, you don’t have to be a good golfer. Beginners are welcome and couples are welcome to attend together with their baby. A lady member from 13th Beach is on-hand to assist mothers with any needs their baby may have, while Sottile leads the lessons. But the classes are totally flexible and mothers can attend to their babies at any time.
An enthusiastic Sottile said: “Clubs and Bubs is the perfect way for new parents to be introduced to golf or improve their skills in a relaxed, family friendly environment. Sessions are flexible, because we know bubs don’t always have the same level of interest but some of them are very interested, sitting up to watch mum or dad. It’s also amazing to see some of the great shots from mums who have never picked up a golf club before”
Teaching professional Robyn Sottile (centre – blue jacket/beanie) has developed the successful Clubs and Bubs program at 13th Beach.
Eager participant Violet Truong said: “As a new mum, the 13th Beach Clubs and Bubs program has been an awesome opportunity to get outdoors, do something fun and meet other parents in the local community. Robyn has made the sessions really fun and helped me brush up on my technique. Getting out in the fresh air with my baby and having a coffee with everyone in the clubhouse afterwards is a great way to make new connections.”
Helen Larkin, Chair of the 13th Beach Women in Golf Committee said: “The opportunity for new parents to meet others, get out and about and try something that they may not have tried before is fantastic to witness. Not to mention finishing off with a coffee in the clubhouse at the end of the clinic and continuing the conversations and new friendships.”
