Giacomo Dovetta named one of the top junior coaches in the world by US Kids Golf

Verdura Resort PGA Professional Giacomo Dovetta has earned leading international acclaim after being named as one of the world’s top 50 junior coaches by US Kids Golf.

Dovetta was the only golf instructor in Italy – and one of just two coaches in Continental Europe – to be included in the annual list presented by Coaches Institute, a division of the US Kids Golf Foundation, an organisation designed to promote junior golf around the world.

US Kids Golf conceived the top 50 awards in 2004, “to help parents find kid-friendly coaches … recognised for their outstanding ability to teach the game to kids”.

The Top 50 Kids Teachers of 2017 featured golf professionals from 26 American states and five international countries – Austrian, England, Honduras, Italy and Northern Ireland, with award recipients including coaches who work at public, private, resort and municipal courses.

Dovetta, who received a personalised plaque for his achievement, said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to have been included in this prestigious list, and to be the only Italian-based coach makes it an even bigger honour.

“With fantastic golf facilities and an amazing location, Verdura Resort is one of the best places in the world to play golf and is the ideal place for youngsters to learn and improve in an outstanding and safe environment.”

Dan Van Horn, the president and founder of US Kids Golf, said: “These coaches are honoured as more than instructors. They create outstanding opportunities for young golfers to learn in a fun and rewarding environment that instils a love for the game and engages the entire family. Their ability to connect with students and fully engage them in the learning process sets them apart.”

Nestling on the coast in 230 hectares of stunning landscape, warmed by the Mediterranean sun and refreshed by the sea breeze, Sicily’s Verdura Resort features two 18-hole links golf courses – the East and the West – and will host European Tour action for the second year running this spring when the Rocco Forte Open – Verdura takes place from May 10-13.

Designed by Kyle Phillips, the resort’s golf courses offer uninterrupted views of the azure waters from the undulating greens. The venue includes two 18-hole championship courses, a nine-hole, par-three layout and extensive practice facilities including a double-ended driving range and outstanding academy.