Jussi Pitkanen on how to keep golfers on the straight and narrow

Golf is not a sport closely associated with academia but PGA Fellow Professional Jussi Pitkanen is hoping his studies will lead to structures being put in place to help more Irish amateurs make the giant leap into the tour ranks.

General sports lovers pay little attention to golf until a young Irishman or woman makes a major impression and bridges the yawning divide that separates life under the protective wing of the amateur bodies to success on the pro tours.

But given the success of Irish rugby since the academy system was put in place, it’s clear golfers also need formal structures to prepare them for the transition.