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By Jane Geddes, Executive Director, LPGA Women’s Network
The overwhelming sentiment from women who have yet to play golf is that they think the game is not for them. Often, this disposition stems from intimidation. Trying something new, something that isn’t very easy, who could blame them? Would you be nervous showing up to a party that you weren’t invited to?
This past August, the U.S. golf industry – powered by WE ARE GOLF’s Women’s Task Force and the LPGA Women’s Network – set out to change that thinking by launching the #inviteHER campaign. The intention is for current golfers, men and women alike, to encourage the females in their lives to pick up the game through the “power of invitation,” whether it be an afternoon at the driving range, taking a group clinic or playing nine for fun with friends.
As golf industry professionals, it is up to us to create a more inclusive environment for women to try the game. Eliminating the stigma that golf is a man’s game begins with a simple invitation, an impactful gesture that shows women they are not only welcome, they are wanted.
In 2017, there were 2.6 million Americans that tried golf for the first time, with 35 percent of that group being female. Further research from the National Golf Foundation identifies a clear latent demand. Nearly 30 percent of non-golfing women reported an interest in wanting to play golf in the immediate future. Also, 74 percent of these women said they’d try the sport if there were a free morning event they could attend with a group of friends. While the number of females interested in golf continues to rise, it is our job to present this untapped market with an outlet to enter the game without pressure.
Golf can be a difficult game, especially when you’re first learning. Think back to the first time you picked up a club and how long it took you to get to your skill level today. To keep our female golfers coming back, we need to foster positive experiences that show we want to #inviteHER. Women’s specific clinics, beginner lessons and engaging events are just a few ways to increase women’s participation. We are much more likely to give a new activity a chance when participating with friends.
The #inviteHER initiative, with the support of many U.S. golf industry entities, aims to present women with the tools and education necessary to make the plunge into the game. Through this movement, the industry not only taps into revenue sitting on the table, but it continues to shape the narrative that golf is a game for all.
We are encouraging all golfers to invite their wives, daughters, mothers, colleagues or whomever it may be to the golf course, practice range or even Topgolf to encourage your love for the game. Share your stories using the hashtag #inviteHER on your personal or business social media platforms and visit inviteHER.com for more information on how you can get involved.