A new era has begun at Dunston Hall Golf Club, with a local journalist stepping into the role of seniors captain. The appointment, while a great honor, comes with a unique set of challenges and responsibilities, demanding a blend of organizational skill, interpersonal finesse, and a deep understanding of the club’s vibrant community.
The incoming captain, who has secured a dedicated parking space for the next 12 months, admits to feeling a degree of apprehension. “Gulp! Well it’s official… And I am nervous. Very nervous,” he stated. Unlike some clubs where the captaincy is largely ceremonial, Dunston Hall boasts an incredibly active seniors section of around 115 players, ensuring a hands-on leadership role.
Stepping Up to the Tee: A Commitment Born of Retirement
The decision to pursue the captaincy wasn’t taken lightly. Having recently retired from full-time work, the new captain recognized the significant time commitment required. “I reached the conclusion some time ago that this was a position I could only undertake if I was no longer working,” he explained. The desire to avoid letting down the membership, coupled with the high standard set by his predecessor, Gary Harrison – described as “an absolute joy” and incredibly popular – further fueled his commitment.
The Human Element: Knowing the Players
One of the first hurdles the captain faces is familiarizing himself with the extensive membership. While Harrison was known for knowing each senior by name, the new captain currently recognizes approximately 50% of the section. “That is the first thing I need to put right,” he acknowledged. To achieve this, he plans to deviate from his usual golfing pairings, actively seeking opportunities to play with different members and broaden his network within the club.
Tradition and Innovation: Balancing the Old and the New
Dunston Hall has established traditions, including a weekly update penned by the seniors captain. Fortunately, this task doesn’t present a challenge for a seasoned journalist. “I made my living as a journalist and am pretty confident that this is one task that I can perform with some degree of competency,” he said, adding a note of caution: “I am also acutely aware that the members will be keeping a close eye on my weekly reports – so I cannot afford any spelling or grammatical errors.”
Beyond the weekly update, the captain is focused on enhancing the club’s competitive and social calendar. He’s already arranged a groundbreaking fixture – a match between the seniors and the ladies, a first for Dunston Hall – and a mixed event against another Norfolk club, hoping to establish it as an annual tradition. Plans are also underway to elevate the Captain’s Day celebration.
The Charity Challenge: A Personal Stake
Perhaps the most significant undertaking for the year ahead is the Captain’s Charity Day. The seniors section has consistently raised impressive sums – £8,000 in each of the past two years – and the pressure is on to surpass that figure in 2026. This year’s event carries an added layer of complexity: the chief executive of the chosen charity is the captain’s son. “It is a strange sort of pressure,” he admitted, outlining the extensive work involved in securing hole sponsors, auction prizes, and favorable weather conditions. The event will also require carefully crafted speeches, a task that presents its own set of anxieties.
A Strong Support System
Fortunately, the captain isn’t navigating these challenges alone. He’s supported by a dedicated committee whose tireless efforts for the senior members are deeply appreciated. Having served on the committee for nearly two years, he’s witnessed firsthand their commitment and expertise. A dedicated fixtures secretary ensures tee times are secured, and another secretary is handling the complex task of handicaps for team pairings. The outgoing captain has also provided invaluable guidance, preparing him for the months ahead.
Balancing Golf and Life
Retirement has afforded the captain and his wife a full and active lifestyle, filled with travel and leisure. However, he recognizes that fulfilling the duties of seniors captain will require some adjustments. “I am aware that if I am going to do this captaincy properly then I am going to have to cut back on those in 2026,” he stated, expressing gratitude for his wife’s unwavering support. Despite arthritis preventing her from playing, he’s determined to involve her in the social aspects of the role.
Learning from Past Mistakes
The captain acknowledges that surprises are inevitable, but he’s determined to avoid repeating a recent misstep from his time as vice-captain. A disqualification due to a delayed tee-off – despite a drizzle and assurances from playing partners – serves as a cautionary tale. “I have a feeling that it is going to be a while before I live this down,” he reflected, adding with a touch of optimism, “On the other hand, things can only get better. Can’t they?”
The new seniors captain at Dunston Hall Golf Club is poised to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, guided by a commitment to the club, its members, and a healthy dose of self-awareness.
