(HACKENSACK) - Bergen County Executive Dennis McNerney helped tee off the start of the "Far from Par" Summer Golf Pilot Program for middle and high school students with autism in Bergen County.

"Our hope is that this unique golf initiative will help students with autism establish meaningful social relationships, engage in physical activity, and develop a source of self-esteem that will lead to more inclusion in the classroom," said McNerney. "Bergen County will be the first in the nation to participate in this innovative program."

The Bergenfield Public Schools district is collaborating with the Bergen County Parks Department and the Knickerbocker Country Club in Tenafly to teach 15 students with autism to play golf and enjoy the sport. Participants will be provided golf course and driving range access, clubs, and professional instruction.

"Children with autism typically have difficulty recognizing, understanding, and applying appropriate social skills to various social situations," said Dr. Michael Kuchar, Superintendent of Bergenfield Public Schools. "This program proposes a new approach to behavior modification by using the rules of golf as a metaphor for the game of life. The results of this pilot could have a national impact on the thousands of programs attempting to unlock the mysteries of the autistic mind."

The pilot program will offer students with autism an environment where they can enhance their social skills, while participating in a recreational activity with lifelong benefits. Students selected to participate in the monthlong program will receive instruction five days a week.

The Bergen County Golf Department will provide access to County courses and members of the Knickerbocker Country Club will volunteer to serve as mentors for students as they learn proper etiquette on the course and practice their swing.

The United States Golf Association's (USGA) "For the Good of the Game" grant program was developed to provide opportunities for personal development through the game of golf. The USGA seeks to empower organizations that reach out to children from economically disadvantaged backgrounds and individuals with disabilities.

This past September, Bergenfield, Dumont, and New Milford partnered together to start Tri-Valley Academy. The Pre-K and primary autistic program teaches social and life skills, along with academics to children with autism. The program is set up in classrooms at Lincoln Elementary School in Bergenfield.

If you are interested in sharing your golf expertise or want to provide a donation to the Bergenfield USGA "Far from Par" Summer Program, please contact Dr. Michael Kuchar at mkuchar@bergenfield.org or call 201-385-8202.

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