Leadership summit highlights new programmes and steady progress in driving female engagement in golf.

Scottish Golf Marks a Year of Progress for Women and Girls

Scottish Golf’s ‘Join The Drive’ Women’s Leadership Summit took place during the 2026 ISPS HANDA Women’s Scottish Open, highlighting the first year of its Women and Girls Strategy. The event brought together female golf advocates and discussed new programmes designed to attract and keep women and girls in the game.

Women’s Leadership and Club Initiatives

Over 80 officials and influencers attended the summit, hearing from speakers including Jasmine Sanders (“The Jazzy Golfer”), Vivienne MacLaren, and Becca Hembrough. The meeting focused on female leadership and the need for accessible opportunities.

Scottish Golf has launched several initiatives to support women and girls at all stages:

• Women and Girls Coordinator Fund: £56,000 distributed to help clubs appoint dedicated coordinators.
• ‘Join the Drive’ Coaching Network: 18 women coaches receive mentoring and leadership support.
• Girls’ Junior Framework: 47 clubs held sessions designed to help girls transition to club membership.

New Programmes Focused on Engagement

During the Scottish Open week, Scottish Golf introduced new programmes targeting community engagement:

• Girl Guiding Pilot Programme: Forth Valley and Bridge of Allan Golf Club teamed up to deliver golf experiences for girl guides.
• Regional Pilot Programme: Monthly coaching led by coach Karyn Dallas, designed to be fun and develop future regional coaching programmes.
• Club Education Fund: Supports training for club professionals.
• Women’s Professional Transition Programme: Funded by the Sean Connery Foundation, this helps players move from amateur to professional levels.

Membership and Participation Growth

Recent club data show a 1.6% increase in adult women’s memberships and a 2.9% rise in junior girls. Female submitted scores also grew by 14%, pointing to more women playing and competing.

Scottish Golf says it is focused on removing barriers for teenage girls and creating welcoming environments so that more women develop a lifelong connection to golf. With support from partners and continued investment, the Women and Girls Strategy will continue to push for growth in participation and leadership.

To learn more about these initiatives, visit www.scottishgolf.org.