Shillong: Meghalaya has achieved a notable first in its sporting history as professional golfer Johnwell Gabil Momin from Tura became the state’s first certified golf coach under the National Golf Academy of India (NGAI).
With the successful completion of the NGAI’s Category “C” coaching certification, Momin now holds a key credential that allows him to train golfers professionally, marking a new chapter for golf in the Northeast.
The certification process, held at the Poona Golf Club from May 12 to 17, assessed candidates on both practical and theoretical components.
Momin secured an impressive total of 76 out of 100—22 marks in practicals and 54 in theory—reflecting his deep understanding of the game and its techniques.
Momin’s path to this milestone has been shaped by years of commitment and a strong support system.
He dedicated his achievement to the late Chesrang A Sangma, fondly remembered as “Changchang,” whose encouragement, he said, continues to motivate him.
He also expressed heartfelt thanks to a number of individuals and institutions who supported his journey, including Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, who sponsored him for athletic training in 2018, and former minister Billykid A Sangma, whom Momin described as a father figure.
The support extended to him by other key figures—including James Sangma, Minister A.L. Hek, MP Saleng A Sangma, and Dr. Debajit Rudra Sangma—was also instrumental, as was the consistent backing of the Tura Golfers Association.
Momin credited a free golf coaching camp held at Shillong Golf Course as a pivotal moment in his coaching aspirations.
Organised by NGAI under the guidance of Director-in-Charge Hector Marwein, the camp encouraged Momin to begin conducting similar sessions for local youth.
ALSO READ: Assam’s Chirang district issues prohibitory orders to ensure public safety during monsoon
These free classes not only offered golf training but also engaged students from nearby villages as caddies, giving them valuable exposure and financial support.
As he advances from a Category “D” to a “C” level coach, Momin now brings a more technical and scientific approach to his training, focusing on concepts such as ball flight dynamics, swing mechanics, and club technology.
These insights, he believes, are crucial for developing well-rounded players.
