Matthew Hutchinson from Ravensworth Golf Club, in Gateshead, was finding it tough to play golf while studying in London.
Matthew is studying for a degree in Mathematics and Economics at the prestigious London School of Economics and striving to play golf at the same time. But this proved difficult until he was awarded a three-year bursary from the Trust.
‘The cost of living in London has been a significant challenge,’ says Matthew. ‘I have been finding it increasingly tough to manage living expenses alongside my academic commitments – as well as continuing to play the sport I love.’
‘Coming from a state school background and being the first generation in my family to attend university puts me in a small minority at LSE, where many students are either privately educated or international and therefore often do not face the same financial pressures.’
‘I worked throughout the summer on minimum wage to help ease the financial strain, but this upcoming year will be particularly tough as I was unable to secure student accommodation, forcing me to rent privately. This has placed a considerable strain on my budget for the year ahead.’
Matthew has used the bursary to help pay his rent in London. ‘This support has allowed me to set aside some money for golf – both at the range in London and back home over the summer.’
An active golfer from Ravensworth Golf Club, Matthew plays off 11.4 and has led his junior team in league matches, helped younger golfers to reduce their handicap and competed in club and county competitions.
‘Golf has been a significant part of my life and has taught me invaluable lessons in leadership, resilience, and discipline.’
Now, the bursary from England Golf Trust is helping ease his financial situation. ‘It allows me to focus more on my studies and continue my golfing pursuits without the constant worry of financial pressure,’ he says.
The support means he can remain an active member of LSE’s golf society, which meets for weekly sessions at the Greenwich Peninsula Golf Range and games whenever possible.
‘I am deeply passionate about both my academic and sporting ambitions, this support will help me succeed better in both areas,’ he adds.
‘The bursary has enabled me to continue practising golf both in London and at home. This is helping me maintain my performance level even though I am away from my home course for extended periods.’
Matthew views his golf as a mental break from studying or work. ‘On my days off, I’ll head to the course, and after a long day of revision, playing a round helps me clear my head.’
‘It also gives me a productive focus outside of my studies – whether it’s working to lower my handicap, improving the accuracy of my driving, or simply aiming to win as many matches and competitions as possible.’
‘I’m aiming to play in more men’s competitions at my local course because competing alongside lower-handicap players will help me improve my own game. Reaching a single-figure handicap is a major goal – being so close already, it’s well within reach with continued practice.’
‘Academically, my main aim is to achieve a 2:1 in Maths and Economics at LSE, which would provide a strong foundation for a financially stable future career.’
