The Prague golf resort, GC Hodkovičky, recently hosted a groundbreaking event to support children with autism. The driving force behind this initiative is the Rotary Club Telč - satellite club Prague Golf.

The event at Hodkovičky allowed children with autism to experience golf for the first time, under the guidance of a professional coach. The event garnered significant interest and received positive feedback. The main organizers, Rotarians Marie Jehličková and Josef Orel, along with Marie Stilerová from the Hanus Goldscheider Foundation and coach Renata Brýdlová, expressed their satisfaction with the event's success.

Marie, a long-standing coordinator of golf activities and a promoter of this event, shared her inspiration: "The idea of introducing golf to autistic individuals came from my involvement in the World Golf Fellowship Committee of Rotary International, where I coordinate Rotary golf activities across Europe. I believe this is a wonderful and beneficial initiative. I invite not only Hodkovičky Golf Club but also other clubs in the Czech Republic and Slovakia to join this collaboration. We plan to form groups within Rotary Clubs in various towns to further support autistic individuals."

The feedback from parents of the participating children has been overwhelmingly positive. One parent expressed in an email: "I never imagined taking Maty to such an event due to our limitations. However, yesterday's experience was truly amazing. Everyone was so kind and dedicated, the children had a fantastic time, and the coach was incredibly patient. A golfer even approached Maty to help him learn, which touched me deeply. I'm grateful to all the organizers for this opportunity. We had a wonderful time and would love to participate again in the future."

Autism is a developmental disorder that affects a child's understanding of what they see, hear, and experience. It particularly impacts areas such as communication, social interaction, and imagination. Children with autism often thrive with structure, routine, and familiar people around them —qualities that align well with golf. This led to the creation of a pilot project to introduce golf to children with autism.

"On April 21, 2024, we met with the children for the second time at Hodkovičky golf course. Due to the overwhelming interest, we will continue these meetings every second Sunday of the month. We welcome other clubs in our district to join us in supporting children with autism through golf. If you are interested, please don't hesitate to reach out," concludes Marie.

Contact: Marie Jehličková, marie.jehlickova@rotary2240.org

Prepared by: Marie Smrčková, RC Znojmo