Sarah Stirk, the Sky Sports Golf presenter and newly appointed independent director at England Golf, acknowledges the strides that have been made to make golf more inclusive and accessible for women. However, she emphasizes the importance of continued effort in this area, particularly through the influence of role models in elite-level play and governance within the sport.
Stirk highlights the impact of Nelly Korda, who recently won five tournaments in a row and has emerged as an ambassador for inspiring the next generation of female golfers. She believes that authentic support from both top officials and key players is crucial in advancing inclusivity and accessibility in the sport.
As she settles into her new role at England Golf, Stirk reflects on the opportunity to contribute to the sport she has been involved in for nearly two decades. She is particularly drawn to the organization’s focus on inclusivity and accessibility, aligning with her own interests in promoting women’s golf coverage and leadership.
Stirk also discusses the need for a shift in the perception of golf, particularly in areas like dress codes and membership options that can create barriers for potential players. She emphasizes the importance of initiatives like England Golf’s Respect in Golf campaign and advocates for a top-down approach in changing the image and reputation of the sport.
Overall, Stirk is optimistic about the progress being made in women’s golf, noting the increased visibility and demand for the sport. She emphasizes the role of role models like Charley Hull and Nelly Korda in engaging new audiences and driving inclusivity within the game. Stirk is eager to leverage her new position to contribute to the continued growth and development of women’s golf at both the elite and grassroots levels.
