Kat Chaszczewski PGA
About:
- Started researching into the golf industry for a career change
- Currently studying to obtain a Masters Degree
- Has worked in different roles in the industry including shop manager
My career in golf has helped me meet people who have brought out the best in me.
I first played when I was 11. I seemed to have an aptitude for it, but we moved about lots when I was young, and I drifted away from the sport until I was 24.
I moved to a new town, so I joined Hurtmore to meet new people.
I worked outside of golf, but was facing redundancy, so I was looking at options and started searching for golf jobs.
A nearby vacancy appeared, and I enquired with the idea that I could work towards my qualifications.
I was delighted to get the job, working with Neil Plimmer, who was fantastic for my personal progression.
I got my handicap down to 5, and decided to pursue my PGA qualifications.
It felt a natural progression, though I guess I had an unusual route into it, and I qualified when I was 40.
I probably had a different perspective on the training – I left school at 18, so I had to adapt going back into an academic environment.
In terms of what the PGA means to me, I love being part of something that is recognised.
It was challenging, because I had no golfing background, and I was surrounded by people who mostly had aspirations to play the game professionally.
However, my confidence grew, and I’m actually now in the middle of a masters degree!
I moved to Cranfield after Mid-Sussex, where I was managing the shop, was sold.
That was where it felt like it all clicked, and I had nine great years there, before I returned to work at Hurtmore.
In terms of what the PGA means to me, I love being part of something that is recognised.
What’s not to like about being a professional at something?!
It gives me a feeling of purpose and belonging, especially having bounced around different careers.
My advice to someone considering a career in golf would be just to go for it.
I learned about myself as I went, and looking back I can see how I developed.
It was scary – I didn’t even understand the first session.
But that journey has given me a lot of confidence and taken me on an academic journey that I could never have imagined.
Going from leaving school at 18 to gaining a distinction in the first year of my masters!