University of the Highlands and Islands alumnus of the year tees up with Faldo Series

A golf events organiser who scored a hole in one gaining a job with Sir Nick Faldo after a degree through North Highland College UHI has been named alumnus of the year at the University of the Highlands and Islands.

Matthew Worthington from Inverness signed up for the golf management degree in 2007, keen to combine his passion for golf with a career after he helped build the famous Castle Stuart golf course, current home of the Scottish Open.

Now he works for the Faldo Series, the six-time Major winner’s global golf initiative that gives opportunity to young people.  Established in 1996, 38 Faldo Series tournaments take place in 28 countries worldwide with more than 7,000 participants each year.  He was promoted just six months after joining and is now responsible for planning and coordinating 20 tournaments in 14 countries.

He said: “After completing my degree I immediately began working for Sir Nick Faldo. My job is hugely rewarding on many levels. I get to combine my two main passions in life – golf and travel – whilst playing my part in developing the next generation of talented young golfers.”

Matthew recently ran the Faldo Series Europe Grand Final, putting him in charge of the planning and co-ordination of a five day event featuring 100 golfers from 17 different countries.  The event was broadcast as an hour long programme on Sky Sports in the UK and on the Golf Channel in the USA.

“Seeing my work on television was the proudest moment of my life to date,” explained Matthew. “I am humbled that someone from UHI would put me forward for this award.  I am thankful to all the members of staff who taught and helped me throughout the degree. I would not be where I am today without them and will be forever grateful for what they have done for me."

The University of the Highlands and Islands alumnus of the year scheme is now in its third year, designed to celebrate the success of graduates who studied through the university.

James Fraser, Principal and Vice-Chancellor, said:  "The panel was very impressed by Matthew's achievements and keen to recognise his success.  The golf management degree epitomises the distinctiveness of the University and the region and we are delighted Matthew has teed off his career in great style."

Media contact

Alison Lochhead
Communications manager
01463 279222
alison.lochhead@uhi.ac.uk