The JOLF Man

Two marathons in two weeks — and a lot to unpack. In this episode, I reflect on the build-up, the commitment, and the reality of chasing a sub-3 hour marathon. From feeling ready on the start line in Brighton to dealing with disappointment when things didn’t go to plan, and then shifting mindset to support and experience the magic of London. Probably a little self-indulgent — but it’s about learning, perspective, and what success really looks like. Because whether you’re chasing times or just getting round, we’re all running our own race.

In this episode, we take you inside a whole school JOLF day at Holbrook Primary in Horsham — a school with a long-standing relationship at the heart of what we do. Over 400 children, from Reception to Year 6, took part in a day built around play, challenge, and discovery. We unpack how these days run, from our 16-station “JOLF classroom” to mixing age groups to create supportive, shared experiences. You’ll hear how structure and freedom work together, why every child can succeed, and what the data tells us — with 97% of children wanting to play again. A real insight into JOLF in action: Golf for EVERYONE, ANYWHERE.

Finn and I are sitting in East Grinstead, waiting for the Mid Sussex District Council playday to begin, reflecting on a busy and rewarding few days. From Monday’s JOLF Camp to yesterday’s play day in Haywards Heath, it’s been all about fun, connection, and giving children the space to enjoy themselves. Finn was so excited to record the podcast he could hardly sleep, and that energy sums up what these sessions are about. Whether it’s setting up courses, meeting new faces, or simply playing together, the real highlight isn’t just golf—it’s the friendships, confidence, and laughter that come with it.

Should children have golf coaching—or are we getting it completely wrong? This episode starts with a simple question I get all the time: “I’ve taken my child to the driving range… what next?” Most people assume the answer is lessons. But is it? After years in junior coaching, I’m not so sure. In fact, I think we might be overcomplicating things—and even getting in the way of children actually enjoying the game. So today, I’m challenging the norm. Because when it comes to junior golf, the real answer isn’t yes or no… it’s, it depends.

Golf has firmly joined cricket as one of little Plim’s current obsessions, and after getting a new driver for his birthday, James was keen to put it to the test. What started as a simple experience hitting balls turned into an interesting encounter, a conversation about golf swings, lessons, and the endless search for the “secret.” Watching James move freely while others wrestled with technical thoughts sparked a bigger question: are we overcomplicating the game? Sometimes the best approach might just be simple—ball on the floor, target ahead… strike it.

Spring is arriving, the evenings are stretching out, and after a long, wet winter the golf course is finally beginning to dry out. That makes it the perfect time to think about taking your child onto the course for the very first time. In this episode, we explore how to make that first experience enjoyable, relaxed, and memorable for everyone involved. Instead of worrying about rules, scorecards, or playing “properly,” the focus is on families playing together, moving briskly, sharing one ball, and simply enjoying the game. Because when children love the experience first, the learning and the rules of golf will naturally follow later.

This week the JOLF Man Podcast features a catch-up with Owen after his first few weeks working with JOLF. Owen has been thrown straight into a wide range of schools, children, and coaching environments. In this episode we reflect on those early experiences — what surprised him, what he’s learned, and what it’s really like stepping into JOLF sessions for the first time. We talk coaching methods, building trust with children, adapting sessions for different needs, and the subtle skills that make sessions work. A thoughtful look at learning the craft and finding your feet in the world of JOLF.

Spring is nearly here and with the sun peeking through, it’s the perfect time to encourage your child to take their first steps in golf. In this episode of the JOLF Man Podcast, we’re going to the pitch and putt—that place where your child’s curiosity blossoms into confidence. If your child has played golf at school or has shown interest after watching, this is the next exciting step. But just showing up isn’t enough; you need to plan the experience. Today, we’ll look at how to make pitch and putt safe, fun and meaningful for both you and your child

Owen Thomas officially joins the JOLF team, and we’re recording this on his very first day, sitting in the van, ready for Year One PE at Holbrook School.

Owen’s moved down from Durham, studied Sport and Exercise Science at Loughborough, plays off scratch, and brings a serious love for the game. But more importantly, he connects with people. Coaching isn’t just about golf swings—it’s about communication, emotion, and leadership. Over the coming weeks, we’ll see how Owen develops in schools, learns the craft, and helps young players fall in love with the game. Welcome to JOLF, Owen.

Bonus section – this is absolute gold. We asked the children at our after school club what Owen needs to know to be a JOLF coach… and their answers are priceless.

Continuing our series on “going to” golf experiences with children. This episode we’re talking about one of the most popular family activities around: crazy golf. Whether it’s on holiday, at the beach, or at one of the amazing new glow-in-the-dark indoor courses, crazy golf is often a child’s first taste of golf. But it also raises big questions for parents—especially around rules, scoring, and that dreaded word: “cheating.” So let’s break it down. How should families approach crazy golf, what really matters, and how do we make sure everyone leaves smiling and wanting to play again?