From conversation to action on inclusion in golf course design

On 13 August 2025, a group of female golf course architects from four countries gathered online to tackle a big question: How do we move from talking about inclusivity in golf course design to incorporating it into the game?

Led by Kari Haug, EIGCA’s Chair of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, she opened the discussion with a clear vision — a golfing world where women can play any course that men can, at an appropriate length, without compromise. As Kari pointed out, the industry has been “talking” about inclusion for years … the challenge now is to move from conversation to action.

Defining the scope

One of the first points raised was the need to define exactly who we are trying to include. Exclusion is not always about gender — for many, it is about skill level or familiarity with the game. The group agreed that inclusivity needs to account for all golfers, including new players, juniors, seniors, golfers with disabilities, and anyone whose swing speed or playing style differs from the norm.

Those on the call recognised that golf course architects can influence on-course design, but that broader cultural and operational barriers often fall under the remit of clubs and governing bodies. The key is for architects to focus on where design truly makes a difference.

The role of governing bodies

While architects can design more playable courses, lasting change often depends on leadership from organisations such as The R&A, USGA, Golf Australia, England Golf, etc. By working with these bodies to educate them on inclusive design will help ensure it becomes a considered industry standard.

Inclusion as standard practice

Several participants stressed that inclusive design shouldn’t be treated as a “special” add-on, or afterthought. Inclusive design should be part of every master plan — alongside new greens, bunkers, or woodland management — so clients see it as part of the overall vision rather than an optional extra.

Sharing examples of good practice and making information about inclusive design easily available to both the industry and the public, will help raise awareness of the importance of inclusive design.

Education and evidence

A recurring theme was the need for education. Teaching club managers, owners, operators and decision-makers about the benefits of inclusive design and how this translates into economic benefit is powerful.

Real-world examples and data can be persuasive. Clubs that have invested in forward tees, for instance, have seen membership numbers rise — in one case discussed, the women’s group grew from 43 to 130 members as a result of on-course changes. Collecting and sharing these case studies can help convince clubs of the benefits, both for player experience and for the bottom line.

Small steps, lasting change

While there was agreement that cultural change takes time, the group identified clear steps forward:

• Focus where it counts – Architects improve on-course design, but broader cultural issues need leadership from governing bodies like the R&A, USGA, and Golf Australia. The architect associations need to support and align with governing body initiatives.
• Make inclusivity a standard design consideration – Architects to design with inclusivity in mind. Incorporate forward tees and other accessible elements into every master plan, not as optional extras.
• Educate and influence – Show clubs how inclusive design boosts participation and revenue. Use case studies with measurable outcomes to demonstrate how forward tees can significantly grow membership, especially among women and senior players.
• Share success widely – Use social media, publications, and events to promote good examples and inspire adoption.

As the call drew to a close, the group agreed that while cultural change takes time, small, consistent steps — combined with visible results — can move the game towards a more inclusive future.