Mount Edgecombe Country Club and Driving Range Join Forces to Support Beginner Lady Golfers

As the home of the largest Ladies Golf Section in KwaZulu-Natal, Mount Edgecombe Country Club has teamed up with Mount Edgecombe Driving Range to develop an exceptional program that transitions women from beginner golfers to confident participants in competitive golf.

Known as the “Bunnies” program, this initiative has become a cornerstone for fostering new talent and enthusiasm for the sport, ensuring a fun, supportive, and structured introduction to golf.

For many women, taking their first steps onto the golf course can feel intimidating. Understanding this, the Mount Edgecombe Driving Range offers the Ladies “Bunnies” program, a dedicated course designed specifically to ease beginners into the world of golf. The program, which has been running successfully for 15 years, offers a 12-week journey into the fundamentals of the game.

Under the expert guidance of Steve Cottingham, PGA Master Professional certified coach with over 30 years of experience and the 2014 PGA Coach of the Year, participants receive group lessons every Thursday morning. Cottingham and his team ensures that the sessions are fun, relaxed, and accessible for all, creating a friendly and encouraging environment where new golfers can thrive.

“Our Bunnies program is the perfect guide for beginners,” Cottingham explains. “It’s a fun and easy way to learn the steps of golf while making lifelong friends. The program culminates in players becoming members of Mount Edgecombe Golf Club, where they can take part in numerous member games and competitions.”

The “Bunnies” program is structured to build confidence and skill step by step. It begins at the Mount Edgecombe Driving Range, where participants learn key techniques such as grip, stance, and swing. As they progress, the program shifts focus to other critical aspects of the game, including putting, chipping, and bunker shots. 

The program concludes a three-month golf membership at Mount Edgecombe Country Club that marks the transition from beginner to golfer. By this stage, participants have not only developed their technical skills but also gained confidence in navigating the course and interacting with fellow golfers. Held on the golf course itself, this event allows learners to put their newfound skills into practice in a supportive and enjoyable setting. During this session, experienced members of the club, affectionately known as “Bunny Mothers,” accompany the learners, offering guidance and encouragement.

Orientation and Club Membership

One of the important aspects of the “Bunnies” program is an orientation session hosted by Steve’s team . This session includes a comprehensive introduction to Mount Edgecombe Country Club, covering everything from booking tee times and paying green fees to understanding club etiquette and facilities.

Participants are given a tour of the clubhouse and The Watershed Café, where they can relax and socialise after a day on the course. As part of their journey, learners receive a special Bunnies Membership, granting them access to these facilities and fostering a sense of belonging within the golfing community.

What sets the “Bunnies” program apart is its focus on camaraderie. Learning golf in a group setting allows participants to form strong bonds with their peers. Many “Bunnies” graduates have gone on to develop lasting friendships, often becoming golfing partners for years to come.

The program also provides a gateway into the thriving Ladies Golf Section at Mount Edgecombe Country Club. As members, participants can join a wide range of events and competitions, from social rounds to more competitive tournaments.

The success of the “Bunnies” program is a testament to the collaborative spirit of Mount Edgecombe Country Club and Driving Range. By pooling their expertise and resources, they have created a supportive and empowering pathway for women to enter the sport of golf.

As the largest Ladies Golf Section in KwaZulu-Natal, the club prides itself on fostering inclusivity and growth within the sport. Through initiatives like the “Bunnies” program, Mount Edgecombe is not only nurturing new talent but also strengthening the bonds of its golfing community.

Whether you’re a complete novice or simply looking to refine your skills, the “Bunnies” program offers the perfect starting point. With expert coaching, a structured curriculum, and a welcoming community, it’s no wonder this initiative has been transforming beginners into golfers for over a decade.