At Covington-Harper Elem, PE teacher’s love of golf inspires partnership with Potomac Shores G.C.

Soon after being appointed as physical education (PE) teacher at Covington-Harper Elementary School in Dumfries, Douglas Gilbert visited the neighboring Potomac Shores Golf Club to form a community partnership.

“The game of golf provides many opportunities to work on core values of life that we encourage our students to practice daily,” Gilbert said. “Golf is a sport that can be played for a lifetime. Our students who continue with the game cannot only practice their golf skills, but also learn etiquette, values, self-improvement and to control their emotions all while having fun.”

Gilbert is a certified First Tee teacher. The three-week physical education unit on golf is his favorite to teach. With help from PE teacher assistant, Meagan Glover, first through fifth-grade students were taught golf fundamentals such as chipping, pitching, putting and full-swing shots. Third through fifth-grade students then had the opportunity to participate in a three-day, after-school golf group to learn more from professional golfer John Elliott.

Furthermore, thanks to the teachers’ efforts, six students earned the chance to hone their golf skills at the Potomac Shores Golf Club. They spent time at the driving range and on the practice green with guidance from professional golfer Tod Van Meer, before competing in a mini tournament.

This unique partnership will continue for the this coming school year.