Scottish-based PGA pro 'driven growing game' secures new status

A Scottish-based PGA professional has been recognised for the role he has played in his club enjoying a huge impact in the growth of ladies’ golf.

David Pocock, who is the head professional at Portlethen Golf Club in Aberdeenshire, received Fellow Professional status in the first PGA Excel awardees of 2026.

The club has seen over 60 ladies join as members in the last two years, and along with a healthy retail business, Pocock is driven on growing the game.

David Pocock, the head professional at Portlethen Golf Club, has secured PGA Fellow Professional status | The PGA

“It was something I felt I needed to do for my own development,” he said. “It was important for me personally. I wanted to progress up the ladder.

“I can remember over 20 years ago, my first day as an assistant at The Belfry and really feeling like I had a sense of imposter syndrome. Am I good enough to do this? And it was important for me to prove myself wrong.”

‘I eat, sleep and breathe it’

Pocock was among 15 new awardees through The PGA scheme, which recognises professionals, coaches and managers.

“I try to do coaching courses each year – it's difficult to quantify exactly what I’ve done,” he added”. Over the last two to three years, I'm constantly on podcasts – I eat, sleep and breathe it.

“I'm driven by big numbers. If I bring in big numbers through the door, the financial rewards come from that as well. I'm driven two ways. I'm driven in growing the game, and I'm driven in an increase in my financial business and increasing my turnover. They work hand in hand."

Myles Cunningham, an assistant professional at Gullane, was also among the awardees, securing Advanced Coach status.