Golf is a sport of many preconceived notions, and perhaps the biggest is that it’s a man’s game. Well, St. Louis is home to plenty of women who prove that particular stereotype wrong. Since its inception in 1999, the local chapter of the LPGA Amateur Golf Association, a volunteer-led nonprofit, has helped women hit the links and make impactful connections.
Board member Lori Woodward says she had difficulty finding other women to golf with before joining the organization, previously known as the Executive Women’s Golf Association before aligning with the Ladies Professional Golf Association in 2018. “Golf is not traditionally a women’s sport, but the organization really helps you connect with other female golfers,” she says. “We have 141 members, and whoever is interested can play with us two times before committing.” She adds that while golf may seem intimidating, membership is open to women of all backgrounds. Along with weekly playing opportunities in Missouri and Illinois, the nonprofit hosts beginner clinics to help golfers of varying skill levels engage with the game.
The group also regularly hosts social get-togethers and networking events, including outings during the winter when heading to the golf course isn’t an option. “Many of our members are very driven and competitive; they often are leaders in their fields,” Woodward notes. “It’s empowering to connect on both social and business levels. Plus, it’s just fun to meet people who have similar interests.” The organization hosts a Wine, Women and Wedges event annually in March to introduce people to its purpose. “Golf pros provide instruction, and our members share information about what we do,” Woodward explains. The nonprofit also hosts a Spring Kickoff event, an annual luncheon that includes a silent auction and nine holes of golf.
Proceeds from the Spring Kickoff benefit The First Tee of Greater St. Louis, a nonprofit that provides affordable golf programming for children and young adults. “It’s a great cause that gives kids the opportunity to learn the spirit of golf as well as important values,” Woodward says. “We strongly believe in providing opportunities to build confidence and life skills through the game.”
Woodward says the association provides a unique community to help women thrive. “There’s nothing quite like the organization,” she notes. “There’s a lot more to it than just golf. It improves women’s lives by providing social connection, athletic competition and business networking.
Photo courtesy of LPGA Amateur Golf Association