ON AND OFF THE COURSE
From Fairway Dreams to the founding Greatmaker
A greatmaker is the support that transforms raw ability into elite performance. In golf, Greatmaker is the platform for anyone wishing to “Raise their game”.
MY Story
As a young golfer from Nottinghamshire, I was introduced to golf by my father, aged 9. I immediately fell in love with the game spending hours on the golf course, chipping away at my handicap. Ian Elrick, my junior organiser was instrumental in my development where I quickly progressed to the England Squad, aged 15. Gaining a golf scholarship to a Division One University in America in my early twenties I started out well. Sadly, being miles away from home and isolated from family, this triggered my first bipolar episode.
Bipolar became my unwelcome companion, tournaments that once thrilled me became trials of endurance and heartache on and off the course. From here I spiralled into a cycle of poor mental health, alcoholism and drug taking. The pressures of professional golf and living in South Africa playing on the mini tour, led to a battle far removed from the fairways.
My journey back to golf was a long one. I completed a degree at Bradford University and a Masters (MLITT) in Terrorism Studies and Political Violence at St Andrews University. Living in St Andrews surrounded by the many golf courses, my love for the game returned as did a new path…Greatmaker, a golf apparel company was founded. Rooted in the traditions of St Andrews whilst designed for performance and to champion mental resilience. I recognized the mental challenges I faced whilst unique were not so dissimilar as those shared by many other elite golfers and the wider golfing community.
Greatmaker’s ethos is simple and yet profound
Greatness is forged not just in skill, but the strength to confront and overcome adversity. Greatmaker is not advocating perfection, but seeks to work closely with golfers to achieve their goals. Each garment blends classic modern craftsmanship with contemporary design, a symbol of resilience and individuality. Through Greatmaker, we aim to create a community of players and ambassadors where conversations about mental health are as commonplace as discussing swing techniques.
From the shadows of despair to the fairways of hope I hope my story inspires golfers and anyone to “Never give up.” We invite every golfer to wear their golf clothing with pride and adopt these principles to improve their game.
Greatmaker is a Private Limited Company registered in Scotland. Number SC774151