Women and Girls in Golf Week – an online campaign promoting female participation at all levels and challenging negative perceptions about the game – is back for 2021.
This year’s campaign runs from 16-22 August and is once again timed to coincide with the staging of the AIG Women’s Open at Carnoustie Golf Links when the eyes of the world are firmly focused on the women’s game.
The week aims to unite the golf industry and celebrate the successes of women and girls both on and off the course.
England Golf is delighted to announce industry support from adidas, BIGGA, Black British Golfers, Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, EDGA, GCMA, Girls in Golf Society, Golf Foundation, Muslim Golf Association, PGA, Slingsby Golf Academy, Sport and Recreation Alliance, Titleist and Wales Golf.
England Golf – the governing body for the club and amateur game – is the driving force behind the initiative which is now in its fourth year.
As well as involving media outlets in the promotion of the women’s game, there is the chance for the golfing public – both male and female – to join in the online fun.
There are three ways for the golfing community to get involved:
- During Women and Girls in Golf Week use the #WhyIGolf in posts on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook and remember to tag in England Golf.
- Individuals can share their #WhyIGolf stories now for an opportunity to be featured in our national videos or on the England Golf website.
- Clubs and facilities can also deliver activities during the week – England Golf has created a range of assets.
Go to www.englandgolf.org/WhyIGolf for full details on how to share stories, get involved and watch this year’s promotional video.
There are seven themes for the week – one for each day of the campaign – and these cover all areas of the game and the golf industry.
- Monday – Careers: Introducing inspiring women who are blazing a trail in the golf industry.
- Tuesday – Volunteering: A chance for everyone to shout about those unsung volunteers who are key to the game’s success.
- Wednesday – Health and wellbeing: Engaging conversations with women who have found golf to be a transformative experience for mental and/or physical health reasons.
- Thursday – Competing: A chance to hear from those who love the buzz of competition.
- Friday – Role models: Taking a leaf from the many women who inspire by their actions not only at the top of the game, but also at grassroots level.
- Saturday – Newbies: Focusing on those who are new to the game – and who now couldn’t live without it.
- Sunday – Join the club: A rallying call for those on the outside to come and join the golfing party!
Lauren Spray – women and girls in golf manager at England Golf – said: “Every year we look to build on the previous campaign and ensure that the amazing stories involving women and girls in golf are given the exposure they deserve.
“I’m always a firm believer in the phrase if you can’t see it, you can’t be it. Telling stories of women and girls in golf and bringing their experiences to life simply helps to destroy the negative stereotypes of the game that belong in another era.
“Many of these negatives are already disappearing in a sport that is far more modern and progressive in its outlook than many would have you believe.
“I’m always bowled over by the enthusiasm of the women I know in the game – either those who take part or who work behind the scenes. It’s also been great to have so many positive contributions from men in the game who recognise that golf is a sport for everyone regardless of age, gender, ethnicity or ability.
“Playing the game, helping out at club, working in the golf industry – there are so many roles in the game for women and girls to enjoy and we aim to highlight these to a wide and growing audience.”
Toni Zverblis – campaign and development manager at England Golf – said: “Last year’s campaign proved to be a huge online success – promoting the women’s game and increasing awareness about opportunities in a game that is adapting to the modern world and changing lifestyles.
“Videos from the week racked up 285,000 views while Instagram stories were seen 100,000 times. Over 500 people from around the world shared their stories and experiences and #WhyIGolf was trending for the week.”
As the one-month to go countdown begins, the public can keep an eye on England Golf’s social channels and website – www.englandgolf.org/whyigolf/ – for the latest on Women and Girls in Golf Week and also for details on how to get involved.