SGSL to support Watson and Pretswell

• Sally Watson and Pamela Pretswell to be supported by SGSL
• Both players in Gold Coast, Australia, ahead of first LET event
• MacRae, MacDonald and Murray not chosen for funding

Ladies European Tour duo Sally Watson and Pamela Pretswell have retained their support from Scottish Golf Support Limited (SGSL) in 2015, despite a review into the current programme.

Watson, 23, will be benefitting from her second year of support from SGSL after enjoying a successful debut European Tour season, finishing runner-up in the ‘Rookie of the Year’ standings behind Amy Boulden.

The St Andrews-based golfer, who graduated from Stanford University in June 2013, is currently ranked No.193 in the world but has leapt 363 places in the last 12 months.

Pretswell is entering her final year of funding from the SGSL, which began in 2013 after she won the Ladies European Tour Access Series Order of Merit in 2012.

The 25-year-old finished 60th in the European Tour Order of Merit in her debut season and after ending in 36th place in 2014, the SGSL decision-makers were clearly impressed enough by her progression to renew their support this year.

Both players are currently in Gold Coast, Australia, ahead of the RACV Ladies Masters – the opening event of the 2015 LET season – with Pretswell tweeting:

Backed by the Scottish Government, SGSL aims to help the country’s young professionals progress in their careers, with Watson and Pretswell both meeting the minimum requirements.

Graeme Simmers, chairman of SGSL, said: “Having received support in previous years, Pamela and Sally have both maximised the services made available to them through Scottish Golf Support Limited with a fantastic work ethic and commitment to developing their games.

“We are hopeful the support provided during the 2015 season will help them continue their excellent progress as professional golfers and inspire other young golfers coming through the ranks.”

While Watson and Pretswell are likely to be delighted with their support from SGSL, Kelsey MacDonald, Laura Murray and Heather MacRae have missed out, with the latter told by Scottish Golf performance manager Steve Paulding that she hadn’t received funding because it is ‘unlikely she will win on tour’.

Watson and Pretswell will each receive £23,000 in direct support this season, which can be used for winter training costs, competition expenses, coaching and other support based on each player’s requirements. In return, the pair will support SGU, SLGA and ClubGolf activities such as squad sessions and junior golf clinics.

SGSL support Sally Watson and Pamela Pretswell :: Your thoughts

The SGSL have made their decision to support Watson and Pretswell, but have snubbed MacDonald, Murray and MacRae who will all be participating on the Ladies European Tour this season. What do you make of the decision? Leave your thoughts in the ‘Comments’ section below.