COMMENT | GENELLE ALDRED
All that new golfers really need is to feel seen, heard and respected
I'd love to see the cultivation of a supportive community that transcends skill levels
In golf there is a need for change if participation of those on the margins is to increase. The world around us continues to evolve, which demands a shift in perspective to acknowledge the diverse choices and lifestyles of modern women. Gone are the days when every woman’s fate was tethered to domesticity. Today, women chart their own paths, pursue diverse careers and exercise financial independence. Yet golf largely holds on to outdated norms like competitions on weekdays when the women you want to attract are at work.
The crux of the matter is that women are taking up golf, they are simply choosing to do it in less structured formats. And why? The viral incident of PGA Coach Georgia Ball receiving unsolicited advice from a less knowledgeable man at the range highlights a pervasive issue: the lack of respect and inclusivity faced by women in golf. Such encounters, though not universal, underscore a deeper problem of entitlement and exclusion. And it’s not just from men: I have faced the same from some women too.
This exclusionary culture poses a barrier to entry. High handicaps become not just a measure of skill but a marker of perceived competence and worth to the golfing community. The condescending attitudes and lack of support drive women away from traditional golfing spaces. This is detrimental as most golfers who take up the sport as adults – like I did – are high handicappers.
However, the responsibility for change does not rest solely in one place. Golf professionals, as stewards of the game, wield significant influence. The data shows the crucial role they play in people feeling like ‘real golfers’. While many pros’ enthusiasm for increasing female participation is commendable, the focus of lessons remains on technical aspects. It often doesn’t include elements such as scoring systems and the etiquette involved when on the course. By expanding the scope of instruction, we can empower women to navigate the complexities of golf with confidence and competence.
By fostering a culture of inclusivity and support, we can create an environment where women feel valued and encouraged. Pairing novice golfers with more experienced players not only facilitates skill development but also fosters a sense of belonging and camaraderie. Pros can be great informal connectors, helping newer golfers to build up their networks. And we all know that one of the best ways to improve is to play with more experienced, non-judgmental and patient golfers. Through collaboration, golfers of all backgrounds can come together to support each other’s growth.
In essence, women’s active involvement hinges on the creation of a culture where every golfer—regardless of gender, skill level or handicap — feels seen, heard and respected. By embracing inclusivity, empowering especially women through education and mentorship and building a supportive community on the fairways, golf can evolve into a sport that reflects the diversity and dynamism of the modern world.
As we look to the future, let’s lean fully into change and strive to create a golfing landscape where the joy of the game knows no bounds, even if your handicap is high, or you’re new on the course and at that tough point where improvements are slower than we’d like. If in those moments there is a golfing community to lean into, people will stay and increase their on-course participation and club involvement. If we can crack this, we not only enrich the sport of golf but also pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future for all.
Genelle Aldred has worked as a newsreader and broadcast journalist for 15 years. She is currently Deputy Chair of Women in Journalism, a political commentator and a communications consultant. She started playing golf in February 2022.
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