The JOLF Man

Today we’re recording from South Bersted Primary School at lunchtime on the final day of the spring term. I’m here with Lewis as we reflect on what’s been a busy and eventful six-week half term. From nurture sessions and SEND family sessions to PE, play days, and large group coaching, Lewis has experienced it all. We’ll be talking about the biggest learning curves, the importance of predictability, managing expectations, and what it really takes to grow as a coach. Because in this job, does probation ever really end?

Today we’re continuing our series on families, children, and parents finding ways to keep playing golf after those first experiences in school or the local community. And with the weather here in Sussex being absolutely soaking wet, it’s not exactly ideal conditions for getting out on the course.

So this episode is all about golf simulators — indoor golf, TrackMan-style tech, and whether simulators might actually offer a brilliant, safe, engaging way for children and their families to play together.

I’ll be honest, I don’t have loads of experience with simulators, and sometimes the amount of options can feel overwhelming… but that’s exactly why I wanted to explore it. What should families expect? How do you make the most of your time? And how do you keep it fun and simple for children?

This week on the JOLF Man Podcast, we’re heading to the putting green — and it’s all about keeping golf enjoyable and repeatable for children. After last week’s episode on the first trip to the driving range, I’ve been thinking about what comes next. Because one visit isn’t enough… children thrive on repetition and routine. On the putting green, we slow everything down: hold it, tap it, watch it until it stops. No pressure, no perfect technique, and definitely no worries if they putt croquet/hockey-style or use their hands! This is where confidence grows — one gentle roll at a time.

A friend of mine texted me the other day. He’d taken his five-year-old son to the driving range for the first time—pictures on Facebook, proud as punch. Then came the question: what do I do next? Lessons? Coaching? And it really got me thinking about the children we introduce to golf in schools, the parents who regularly ask for advice, and our own 14-plus years working in this space. Because maybe—just maybe—the best way to start a child in golf isn’t lessons/coaching, but more play, more discovery, and more time together. That’s what today’s episode is about.

As Lewis and I were waiting to head into another school to deliver a JOLF nurture session, it felt like the perfect moment to hit record. In this episode, we reflect on Lewis’s first couple of weeks in JOLF life – what he’s noticed, what’s surprised him, and what really matters for the children we work with. We talk enjoyment over “fun”, the power of quiet focus, and why sometimes the most important thing adults can do is say less. Honest reflections, real observations, and plenty to think about if you work with children.

Get to know our newest JOLF Coach, Lewis Mamoany

A review of 2025, looking back on 4 years of "The JOLF man in the JOLF van" where we have put clubs in the hands of 50000+ children. And then looking forwards to 2026 and beyond

Following a meeting of "Play Their Way" coaches last week i have a had a few thoughts rumbling around that i thought i would share. Let me know what you think...

A quick review of playing in lots of different places playing with lots of different people, we LOVE it :)

Rob Spurrier, CEO of Orbis Golf. Great to catch up and chat about the junior golf "industry" as well as our thoughts following the PGA junior golf CPD day last week.