It takes dedication and determination to be a standout performer in the PGA of Australia’s Trainee Program and with over 230 Trainees in the chase for the esteemed award New South Wales local, Mark Alison, made his mark on the program to become the 2014 Trainee of the Year.

Alison won the award ahead of a number of Trainees who were recently awarded Trainee of the Year in their respective states, which included Alison who also took out the ACT/NSW award alongside Matthew Douglas (QLD) and Mitchell Sheather (VIC).

The Trainee of the Year award embodies excellence across all areas of the program and acknowledges the best performing trainee; inclusive of playing, academic performance, practical capability and professionalism in the workplace.

Alison was very proud and privileged to receive the prestigious accolade.

"I know there are a lot of great PGA Professionals graduating, along with more quality Professionals still in the PGA Trainee Program. It’s quite an honour to be recognised with such an award," said Alison.

Along with this, Alison also received the 2014 year three Titleist-FootJoy Excellence in Education Award, which is awarded to the three leading Trainees from each year level and determined through academic results.

"Mark is definitely the standout performer from an academic perspective, whilst also being an excellent player," said Geoff Stewart, National Training and Education Manager for the PGA.

With third year recognised as the most challenging academic year of the PGA Trainee Program, 2014 saw Alison as the leading year three Trainee academically, in addition to finishing 31st on the National Adjusted Averages, placing him in the top 13 per cent of all Trainees in playing performance.

In a rare occurrence Alison had multiple reasons to celebrate with wife Cherie, a former Teaching Professional and Golf Operations Manager at Port Kembla Golf Club and Club Professional at Hamilton Island Golf Club, graduating from the PGA Trainee Program as the first husband and wife team to graduate together.

Alison, who originally hails from New Zealand, received Full Vocational Membership of the PGA upon graduation from the Trainee Program, which he undertook at the Ridge Golf Course and Driving Range in Sydney

Since completing his training, Alison now works as the Assistant Director of Golf at Pacific Dunes Golf Club located in Port Stephens, which is ranked in the top five best public golf courses in the state.

"The Trainee Program is filled with all of the tools needed to succeed in the golf industry. By completing it I have been able to clarify some career goals and layout a pathway for myself to achieve them," said Alison.

"The PGA Trainee Program is highly regarded and respected globally, so I feel that there are now a lot more doors open with opportunities for me."

Applications for the 2016 intake of the PGA Trainee Program are open until 31st August, 2015. Visit the PGA Trainee Program page for further information and to access an application form. Further information can also be obtained at the PGA’s upcoming career information evenings.