Burgin was instrumental in initiating a junior competition several years ago, but died last year. The club is determined to build on her good work, as well as remember the woman who was such an important part of its history.

Junior co-ordinator Dean Matters said the response to date to the new Gail Burgin Shield had been very encouraging.

"We have around 17 juniors already playing in the six-hole stroke event, with players able to play whenever they can, with prizes for the weekly winners," Matters said.

"The player with the most points in the competition during the period March to November will win the inaugural Gail Burgin Shield.

"We have been able to get one of the South Coast's best coaches, Greg Drummond, on board and he is offering a coaching clinic each Wednesday afternoon, as well as private coaching lessons for any of the players if needed.

"We were very aware of the pressure on modern families when designing the competition, which is why the kids can come along and play any time, so mum or dad aren't tied up getting the kids to comp on any particular day.

"The competition will be over six holes with both three and four par holes, so there will be plenty of variety for the players too."

Drummond praised the Gerringong committee for their foresight and said it was overwhelmed by the response.

"The Gerringong junior competition is already one of the biggest on the coast and will provide their players with some great pathways for those who have the potential," Drummond said.

"Who knows, the club may soon be able to field a side in the Illawarra Junior Pennants, while it also means the players will also have a chance of getting a scholarship to the Illawarra Academy of Sport."

Anyone interested in more information can phone Gerringong Golf Club on 4234 3333.