Golf New Zealand has unveiled its selections and re-selections across phases Two, Three, and Four of the 2025/26 Talent Development Programme. This comprehensive initiative aims to nurture promising young New Zealand golfers as they pursue excellence in their sport.
Phase Two: Development Squad
The programme’s second phase focuses on emerging players under 19 who demonstrate both potential and commitment to advancing their skills. This year marks a significant change, with the previously fluid structure now formalized into a dedicated squad format.
Female Players Selected:
- Yoonae Jeong (Otago)
- Queenie Lang (Auckland)
- Sophie Yu (Harbour)
- Teresa Wang (Harbour)
- Cherry Lee (Auckland)
- Sarah Li (Harbour)
Male Players Selected:
- Ricky Kang (Otago)
- Isaac Steel (Waikato)
- Ryan Xie (Auckland)
- William Dunsmore (Manawatu Wanganui)
- Ishaan Shah (Auckland)
- Kevin Bang (Bay of Plenty)
Talent Development Manager Liz McKinnon expressed enthusiasm about the new approach: “Previously, Phase Two operated more flexibly, providing camps and international opportunities as they arose. By establishing a formal squad structure, we can now offer more consistent, year-round support to these dedicated young athletes who are eager to elevate their game.”
Phase Three: Golf New Zealand Academy
The academy welcomes three new members while retaining several returning players. Joining the programme are Yuki Miya (Canterbury), Brodie Ferguson (Taranaki), and Chloe So (Auckland).
They will train alongside continuing academy members Cooper Moore (Canterbury), Robby Turnbull (Auckland), Mitch Kale (Bay of Plenty), Jack Van Prehn (Taranaki), Emma Zheng (Auckland), and Juwon Kim (Harbour).
High Performance Manager Gregg Thorpe highlighted the potential of the newcomers: “Miya, Ferguson, and So represent the caliber of talent we seek in the Golf NZ Academy. Their work ethic and natural ability position them well to maximize this opportunity.”
The programme demonstrates flexibility in supporting its athletes, with Kale and Van Prehn remaining in the academy under medical extensions while recovering from injuries. Meanwhile, Josh Bai has departed to pursue a scholarship opportunity at the University of Florida.
Phase Four: Professional Development
Golf New Zealand continues its commitment to supporting players transitioning into professional careers. Fiona Xu, Sam Jones, and Kazuma Kobori will receive ongoing support as they establish themselves in the professional ranks.
Thorpe praised the progression pathway: “Watching our athletes advance through programme phases and represent New Zealand as amateurs has been rewarding. These early-stage professionals have successfully developed both their skills and tour standings, positioning themselves to secure permanent places on their respective professional circuits.”
Programme Information
The Talent Development Programme represents Golf New Zealand’s strategic investment in the country’s golfing future, providing structured pathways from junior development through professional transition.
For comprehensive programme details, visit www.golf.co.nz/talent-development
