New PGA professional joins Royal Golf Club

Golf was not the only sport he played though - he was also an accomplished footballer, playing for Kidderminster Harriers, West Bromwich Albion, Walsall and Cheltenham Town between the ages of 10 and 17.

At the age of 16 Craig decided to pursue a career in golf, and after finishing college enrolled in the new Birmingham University Applied Golf Management Studies (A.G.M.S) course, a sports science and business studies based degree associated with the PGA Training Academy at the Belfry. In 2006 he graduated with a BA Honours degree and full PGA status.

Craig likes to keep fit and is a great believer in the importance of physical conditioning in golf. He recently completed his Titleist Performance Institute (TPI) training, levels 1 and 2, a useful qualification for his time at the Royal Golf Club where he will be training youngsters enrolled on the TPI-inspired junior golf programme.

Craig was previously employed as Head Golf Professional at Telford Hotel & Golf Resort in Shropshire, UK, where he was instrumental in building a strong junior section and a solid foundation from grass roots level to elite junior level.

"We are very excited about Craig joining our team," commented Paul Crowe, the Royal Golf Club's Director of Golf Operations. "At the Royal Golf Club we are committed to growing the sport amongst youngsters, both local and expat, and Craig's previous experience will be invaluable in attaining that goal."