Opportunities Abound for Female Golfers
Scotland is widely accepted as the birthplace of modern golf with game records dating back as early as the 1300’s. The game gained quick popularity after its introduction, but as royalty began to partake in the activity, membership to clubs became very prestigious. It didn’t take long before golf was known as a noble sport played by privileged gentlemen golfers.
However, one of the most avid golfers in Scotland during the 16th century was a woman. Mary Queen of Scots possessed a love for the game and often golfed with her attendants. In fact, she even continued playing golf immediately after her husband’s passing while still facing criticism from her public. Thanks to the dedication and determination of women such as Mary Queen of Scots over the years, golf has become a sport that is played and enjoyed by men and women alike.
Girls today are provided with many resources and opportunities to get involved in the game of golf. There are tournaments, leagues, clubs, magazines, and clothing lines all tailored towards the female golfer. The percentage of women golfers has definitely grown over the years, but participation numbers show that a strong majority of golfers remain male. With so many reasons to get involved, why aren’t there more female golfers? Although there could be a number of different reasons, it appears that there just isn’t enough awareness for all of the opportunities available to them, especially at the junior level.
If you’re a female junior golfer and don’t know where to begin your golf career, the first step is to explore your options and the CJGA Competitive Development Program is a great place to start.
Starting as young as 5 years old, beginning golfers are introduced to the game through the CJGA Junior Linkster Program and HSBC Clinics for Kids. The program continues to reflect the appropriate skill level and progression of junior golfers through its Junior Tour (Ages 11 –19) that offers over 80 tour stops across Canada, including regional, provincial, and national championships. Beginning golfers are encouraged to enroll in CJGA programs, as there is no minimum handicap required to play, just basic rules knowledge and a love for the game.
Another unique program is the CN Future Links Girls Club, which is a community level program for girls aged 7-18. It was founded on the belief that more females would be willing to learn to play golf if the program catered to their unique needs. The CN Future Links Girls Club is designed to develop skills, attitudes, and self-esteem, which in turn foster a lifelong love for the game.
If you decide to take your golf game further, there are opportunities to land a golf scholarship and enjoy the academic rewards that go along with that. In 2006, nearly 50 CJGA graduates accepted offers to play collegiate golf at the NCAA level. As well, a number of alumni are currently playing professionally on tours around the world including Alena Sharp on the LPGA Tour.
It does take dedication and determination to play at a competitive level, but the opportunities are there if you have the passion for it. A great example of this enthusiasm is demonstrated by Brittany Henderson, 16, of Smiths Falls, Ontario.
Henderson began playing golf recreationally at her cottage with her family, which soon developed into an infatuation with the game. As Brittany continued her involvement with golf, she decided she wanted to play competitively. Since then she has become a very successful golfer, and one of the top junior female golfers in Canada.
At age 14, Brittany continued to pile up the tournament victories and became the youngest recipient of the 2005 CJGA Mizuno All-Canadian Award recognizing outstanding golf, academic, and community achievements. He hard work earned her a spot on the RCGA National Junior Ladies Team becoming its youngest member.
“Golf has given me confidence and increased my self-esteem,” explains Brittany. “It has opened doors for me that would not have been opened otherwise.”
One of the secrets to Brittany’s success has been the support of her family. Brittany’s father, Dave, introduced her to the game and has kept her motivated on the course as her part-time coach and mentor, and he says they still play together almost every day. “I try to provide her with new skills and opportunities to play the game,” explains Dave, “I give her tips on saving strokes and doing good math out on the course.”
As a father of two young girls, Dave believes that you are never too young to play golf. Brittany’s accomplishments are a result of her early involvement in the game and the support she has received.
“My advice to parents would be to make sure you have a lot of patience,” he says.
He also believes that associations like the CJGA have been a great help.
“We are very happy with the CJGA and the role it plays for kids. It provides juniors with a professional atmosphere in which to play other outstanding competitors at top venues”
The game has also allowed Brittany an opportunity to develop personally.
“I really enjoy golf because it’s very challenging. I know that I can always play better and that there are always ways to improve,” she says.
In order for the game of golf to continue to grow both within Canada and outside of it, an increase in participation numbers for females is a priority. Considering the opportunities available for female athletes at the NCAA level and the social benefits that come with playing both competitively and recreationally, it is expected that our young female athletes will choose golf as a viable option.
Says Brittany, “My advice to aspiring female golfers would be to always keep on trying. And most importantly, make sure you’re having fun!”
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