Emotional Jones Steps Down as Japan National Coach

Tokyo, Japan: Gareth Jones is standing down from his post as Head Coach of the Japan national amateur teams.

Following a hugely successful 10-year stint in the Japan Golf Association (JGA) Player Development Project role, Australian Jones is handing over the baton to his long-time deputy Craig Bishop.

Jones joined the JGA in 2015 since when he’s overseen the development of dozens of outstanding players, including Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship winners Keita Nakajima and Takumi Kanaya and ex-US Women’s Amateur champion Saki Baba. Nakajima and Kanaya have gone on to win multiple titles in the ranks of the professionals.

Addressing officials and squad members at the JGA National Team Appreciation Party, Jones said: “I am completing my role with the JGA. It has been a joy and an honour to have been able to contribute to golf in Japan. I would like to express my deepest gratitude to the JGA and all the players.

“I believe that golf in Japan is in an extremely healthy and strong position. This is why I hope that players and staff will work even more closely together and continue to move forward without stopping. I hope that you will continue to challenge yourself in the pursuit of new growth. Thank you for the past 10 years.

“I am impressed that you all have that pride and are contributing to the history of the Japanese national team. I have handed over my duties to Coach Bishop. He is a wonderful coach and a passionate person. I hope to continue my relationship with Coach Bishop and the medical and scientific staff in the future.”

In recognition of his contributions, Jones was presented with a medal by JGA Chairman Masashige Ikeya.

After watching video messages from national team alumni, Jones said: “I was very emotional to receive the messages from graduates. I am deeply moved that you have been able to build relationships that go beyond that of coach and athlete, but become human beings.

“The 10 years I have been involved in the JGA’s player development projects have been special times for me as well. I believe that you are all in this special environment because you are all working toward the right goals. I hope that you will continue to have many different experiences in your lives and move forward.”