AAA PGA Professional Carlo Kok has been a cornerstone of the South African Disabled Golf Association in the Southern Cape for more than twelve years. When he first

became involved, the George First Swing Program was still in its early days. It had not yet found its rhythm and needed someone with skill and passion to help it take off. Carlo stepped into that role, and his influence has been felt ever since.

His introduction to SADGA came at a coaching session and roadshow at Carpe Diem School. Watching children with disabilities discover golf made a lasting impression on him. The games and modified activities didn’t just get the learners moving, they created opportunities for fun, participation, and something to look forward to each week.

“It was amazing to see the difference that golf and modified golf made for the children,” Carlo recalls.

Since then, Carlo has been instrumental in growing the George program. Under his guidance, children have learned the game but also developed confidence and social skills that carry into everyday life. One of his proudest milestones has been watching learners grow in confidence to the point where they are able to take on more responsibility in their lives, whether by moving into work, taking on greater responsibilities at school, or gaining independence in everyday tasks such as household chores. It is proof that the program’s impact stretches well beyond the golf course.

To ensure the program’s continuity, Carlo trained teacher Angela at Carpe Diem School to help run the sessions. With her support, children are getting the chance to continue practicing and reinforcing their basic skills between his visits, while also gaining the therapeutic benefits of regular activity. This consistency means golf remains part of their weekly routine, giving them regular opportunities to practice and enjoy the game. It builds lasting capacity within the school and ensures the program doesn’t depend solely on Carlo. It is an approach SADGA would love to see replicated in more regions, as it creates a strong foundation for long-term growth.

Carlo’s work extends beyond the schools. He also coaches SADGA golfers who aspire to compete, such as Grezine Kiewets, Andre van der Westhuizen, Larian Malgas, and Morne Els. Grezine, a double amputee, has developed excellent control in her swing and a strong sense of course management. Andre, a leg amputee, is steadily building consistency and accuracy, gaining confidence with every round. Larian, a double leg amputee, is newer to the game but already shows natural ability and focus. His enthusiasm was clear when he played his first nine-hole round at George Golf Club in late 2024, where Carlo also guided the group through course etiquette and pace of play.

“You have to create solutions that allow each golfer to swing in their own way.”

Both Andre and Larian are set to make their All Abilities Golf Tour debuts in November at the Cape Town Tour Championship Finale for Golfers with Disabilities, hosted by the City of Cape Town during Disability Awareness Month. Morne, a vision-impaired golfer, won his Stableford Division at the 2024 Cape Town Disabled Open and will be looking to defend his title when the event returns this November. Carlo takes pride in supporting their journeys, measuring their progress and success not only in the shots they play but also in the steady growth he sees in their confidence, skills, and determination.

Coaching golfers with disabilities, he says, demands adaptability. Each player has unique physical challenges, so solutions must be tailored to their abilities. Just as importantly, success looks different for everyone. A drive of 160 metres might be average for an able-bodied golfer, but for Larian it is a remarkable achievement. “You have to create solutions that allow each golfer to swing in their own way,” Carlo explains.

“And you need to measure success differently. Their milestones may look different, but they are every bit as important.”

In September 2025, Carlo attended the opening of the newly renovated golf facility at Carpe Diem School, which he sees as an exciting new chapter for learners in George. The space gives children the chance to test their putting skills in a fun but competitive environment. “This facility will continue to serve the community for years to come”.

For Carlo, the reward of coaching with SADGA lies in the perspective it offers. Working with players with disabilities, he says, has been a constant reminder of resilience and gratitude. “We give them hope and also make them feel included in a life-changing sport that teaches us so much about life. Just as in life, it’s not easy, but we keep going at it and keep persevering.” His advice to anyone considering trying golf is equally direct: “Just do it. It’s hard, but once you try it, you’ll be hooked.”

Over the years, Carlo has been more than a coach. He has been a mentor, a steady hand, and a voice for golfers at every level, from children picking up a club for the first time to competitive players preparing for tournaments. SADGA is deeply grateful for his long service, professionalism, and dedication to building opportunities for golfers with disabilities in George and beyond.

As Carlo himself puts it: “One thing I’ve learned is this. While others complain, these players just get on with it and give it their best.”