To round-out our focus this month on the topic of diversity and inclusiveness in golf—perfect timing following the recent incident at Grandview Golf Club—we asked executives from companies leading the charge in the space of inclusion, along with golfers and non-golfers alike, to share their views on the topic of diversity and inclusiveness, and where opportunities exist for golf to create positive change.
Their responses were varied, but each hit on a common thread: for the game to grow, creating an environment that welcomes a variety of people and approaches to enjoying the game is key.
Read on and share your thoughts in the comments below:
“To encourage diversity among golfers, specifically women—which is my customer base—I encourage golf course management, and yes, other golfers, to recognize that not all golfers play the game for score. By offering alternative ways to navigate the golf course and ‘breaking the rules of golf’, less skilled golfers can enjoy the game alongside those that are more experienced. By removing the expectation to ‘score’, I have found that the intimidation factor is reduced, allowing a more varied and diverse group of women participating in the game.”
Donna Hoffman
Founder, Women on Course
“Not only do we need to have women with a seat at the table, but we also have to have women on the course with a club. There are so many critical business conversations that happen on the golf course that women should be included in. In order to be included, we need to have an effective game—it doesn’t have to be perfect, but we have to understand the etiquette and have the confidence to get out there.”
Karen S. Carter
Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer, Dow