The Junior Dubai Desert Classic (JDDC), in association with the Emirates Golf Federation (EGF) and the Junior Asian Golf Academy (JAGA), is proud to announce the first-ever JDDC International College Showcase – Presented by JAGA, to be held on 8-9 January 2025, at the prestigious Emirates Golf Club in Dubai.
This groundbreaking showcase will provide junior golfers with the unique opportunity to interact with and showcase their talents in front of NCAA Division I, Division II, and NAIA coaches. Attendees can expect to meet representatives from esteemed institutions including Arkansas, Barry University, and Keiser University, among a lineup of other top colleges eager to discover new talent in the sport.
Simon Corkill, Executive Tournament Director of the Hero Dubai Desert Classic, expressed his enthusiasm for the event: “We are ecstatic to launch the International College Showcase at JDDC. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between young athletes in Asia and the collegiate level in the United States, providing them with unparalleled opportunities to pursue their golfing careers.”
The Junior Asian Golf Academy (JAGA) is working alongside a distinguished team of international college placement professionals, including the renowned sports management company ASM, led by golf legend Ernie Els. “We believe that this showcase will not only elevate the junior golf community in Asia but also create viable pathways to collegiate golf, ensuring that aspiring golfers receive the guidance and exposure they need,” Els stated.
Additionally, NPU, which operates on the Canadian (OSSD) curriculum, is recognised as a leading education foundation, offering vital support to students at JAGA and those pursuing college programmes. “NPU stands as a testament to excellence in education and sport, ranking among the top institutions globally for placing student-athletes in NCAA athletics,” emphasised Scott McLeod, Founder and President of NPU.
“As Vice President of the Emirates Golf Federation, I am proud to champion initiatives that empower the next generation of golfers. The JDDC International College Showcase marks a defining moment for youth golf in Asia, bridging the gap between young talent and the collegiate stage. By positioning Dubai as a global hub for golf development, we are laying the foundation for a new era of excellence. Our commitment to academic and athletic development remains unwavering, as we create pathways that inspire young athletes to pursue their dreams and achieve greatness both on and off the course,” said General Abdullah Alhashmi, EGF Vice President.
John Laroche, CEO of JAGA and JAGA International College Showcases, added, “Our commitment to supporting junior golf through pathways to college is unwavering. Collaborating with JDDC and EGF, with our partners at ASM and NPU, allows us to create a nurturing environment for these young talents to flourish, from early years until they are College Ready.”
Main Image: Simon Corkill, Akram Skaik, 2024 winner Viktor Kofod Olesen, Shubhankar Sharma
