The EA boys' golf team once again dedicated a September Saturday to helping local visually impaired students with their golf games.
Seventeen members of the varsity and junior varsity teams participated in the annual volunteer effort.
"I participate in this event every year because it is nice to give back to the community through a sport I love," shared Robbie Copit '19. "As a team, it is always a fun event for us and adds to the team camaraderie by giving us a meaningful experience."
"To instruct a visually impaired golfer, you have to be conscious of your surroundings and guide the golfer," explained Garrett Kearney '18. "Although the kids often have varying degrees of visual impairment, you generally have to line the kids up to the ball, make them aware of their target, and let them know when they are allowed to hit. After they hit, you then have to guide them to the ball and restart the process."
EA players are assigned to one visually impaired or blind student. Together, they work on grip, alignment, and swing. "There is a wonderful interaction between the player and the EA student-coach," said EA JV coach Paris Sterrett. "Some players are easier to coach than others. I have found our golf team players to be very attentive and dedicated."
"Through the experience, I learn how much I take for granted," said Robbie. "I also learn a lot from the golfers. They are always so positive. They are incredible to work with."
"You learn that these kids are no different than any other kids their age," said Garrett. "It is empowering to see they are not letting their impairment have control over their lives."
The event was sponsored by the Middle Atlantic Blind Golf Association. Thirty one students took part in the coaching event that was held on Saturday, September 16 at the Overbrook School for the Blind.
