Greg Headed For Big Time

I was at Nudgee Golf Club in my capacity as Keperra Club Captain to see theJunior Pennant Team tee off in their match against the Virginia youngsters Sunday.

Naturally I'm tickled that the Keperra kids got up to win three of the five matches, but the overall idea of blooding the young fry in this type ofcompetition is the thing I'm most pleased with.

The standard of golf is remarkably good this year, but for years it was a disappointment to all those interested in improving that standard of thegame in Queensland. It seemed as if our junior stars just didn't "follow on" when they progress into the senior ranks.

Many theories have been put forward as to why this happens, but there seemsto be no logical answer.

I'm not for one moment about to stick my neck out with any of my own theories, but rather will name one of the new brood who I'm certain will "follow on."

One of Virgina's two winners was their No. 2 man, Greg Norman. Young State representative Glen Cogill plays No. 1.

No just because he won well on Sunday do I single him out, but because he again impressed me as the brightest prospect I've seen in many, many years.

He qualified in the recent Australian Amateur at Gailes only to be knocked out first up by Peter Wardrop, who you'll remember reached the semifinals.

"He has the fighting ability to play all shots under pressure that only thetop golfer possesses," said Wardrop of his younger opponent.

Greg won both the Junior and Club Championship at Virginia this year, andis completely devoted to improving his game having regular sessions withhis club pro, John Klatt.

He also works at developing physically, and has his sights on a career as a physical education teacher.

His academic future depends on his senior exam results, but not so hisfuture as a golfer. Providing he remains as devoted as he is now, he's got it made.