GOLFERS across the county are eagerly awaiting a return to courses on March 29.

For Ross Golf Club's Niall Powell, the 24-year-old will be embarking upon his first year as a professional golfer.

Since his teenage years, the former John Kyrle High School pupil has dedicated himself to the game.

The result of four valuable years study in the United States enabled Powell to graduate with honours and named as a Srixon/Cleveland Golf All American Scholar from the New Mexico State University.

To commence his professional career, Powell has chosen to compete in the Clutch Pro Golf Tour being the leading golf event provider in the UK offering events from grassroots through to the elite levels.

Powell will make his way to the prestigious Woodhall Spa Course on March 8, to kick-start his career.

The season will also provide opportunities for Powell on the PGA Europro Tour, leading to other invites which could see him qualifying for the Open Championship scheduled to take place at Royal St Georges Course in Kent in July.

Powell will take some confidence after a successful final year as an amateur at the Ross Club's tree-lined course claiming the Autumn Scratch and Handicap and the Gordon Blake Cup.