Charlotte explores how the community spirit that underpins golf clubs is even more prevalent (and important) in women’s sections.
I had a lovely chat with my neighbour a few days ago. She’s almost 80 and hung up her golf clubs recently. When I asked if she was sad about not going to the club anymore, she looked at me, totally puzzled: “Why would I stop going to the club? I love those girls.” She’d just come back from a holiday in Spain with her golfing pals and explained that she’ll be a member of her golf club for as long as she possibly can – whether she’s actually golfing or not is irrelevant.
It really got me thinking about how important the social side of club life is, and it sparked this article as part of our (Female) Club Golfer series.
We all know that a golf club is more than just a place to play. It’s a community that brings people together through friendship, fun and shared experiences. It’s a feeling that runs deep within the club, but I think it’s especially true amongst women’s sections.
Maybe it’s because we’re generally in the minority. We stick together in this big show of solidarity, and the bonds we form feel even more meaningful.
That’s not to say everyone gets on, of course. It's more that you’ll generally always find your “people” without much hassle – the weekend women, the nine-holes-before-cake women, the ones who skip golf altogether and go for a cuppa … women find belonging in those groups, and it’s those experiences that make club life what it is.
Women’s sections often get a bad rep for being “cliquey”, and there will always be a few bad eggs – but that’s life. The social side of women’s club golf and the sense of community should be shouted about and celebrated. So, here goes …
More Than a Scorecard
Most women join a golf club when they get to a level of wanting to get a handicap or generally improve their game. It’s a big commitment, and you have to be pretty serious about the sport to make it worthwhile.
But on the whole, that transition from driving range to club life quickly changes from getting better at golf to feeling part of something. Like I said at the beginning, clubs offer a sense of belonging — where routines are familiar, faces become friends, and there’s always someone to share a story or a laugh with.
Friendships That Last
The course might be where you first meet, but it’s often in the clubhouse where friendships are really forged. From post-round coffees to pre-match nerves, my own experience is testament to the connections made through golf.
I met my husband through golf, and some of my best friends. In fact, our kids are now getting into golf together.
A Packed Social Calendar
From quiz nights and themed dinners to charity days and away trips, golf clubs offer a lively calendar of events. These moments off the course are just as important as time on it.
Social events at golf clubs aren’t just about fun; they boost confidence and make everyone feel welcome, they give members a chance to mix with people they may not meet otherwise, and they add so much value to your membership fee.
A Place to Share and Support
Golf clubs are full of shared experiences — both in life and sport. Whether it’s marking a milestone or showing up when someone needs support, a golf club can feel like a second home for a lot of women.
I’ve spoken before about how golf was a big part of my IVF and pregnancy journey. The club became my place to escape and forget about everything for a while, and I know the same is true for so many women going through all sorts of different things.
Community, Confidence and Connection
With the sense of community golf clubs offer, they become great places to boost your confidence, disconnect from screen time and connect with people you might otherwise never meet.
Have you taken our survey yet? We want to hear from you to find out what impact the Women in Golf Charter is having on the day-to-day experience of members.
