PRESS RELEASE
October 2002
EGU/ELGA QUESTIONNAIRE HIGHLIGHTS THE NEED TO DEVELOP THE GAME
The English Golf Union and English Ladies' Golf Association have
published the findings of their Golf Club Membership Questionnaire
2002, with some interesting results that question the health of the
game at both junior and adult level.
The main aim of the research was to assess current membership
structures within affiliated golf clubs in England, identifying where
resources can be best focused in the future. This research is crucial
in order to set future policy and aid strategic planning, allowing a
cohesive approach towards junior and adult golf development.
50% of the 1,896 affiliated golf clubs responded to the survey, which
identified that a massive 89% currently have membership vacancies,
totalling almost 40,000 across all junior and adult membership
categories. These figures certainly dispel the perception that there
are no opportunities within golf clubs and it could be argued that
there has never been a better time to join a golf club. Interestingly
75% of golf clubs are actively seeking more members and many, possibly
out of necessity, already run initiatives to aid this process.
Richard Flint, EGU Golf Development Manager comments: "It is our most
comprehensive research to date and it is now vital to take heed of the
findings and address priority areas such as the huge amount of
membership vacancies, in order to help develop the game further"
In terms of junior golf, little has changed statistically since the
Millennium Census in 2000 and this raises the question whether even
more should be done to invest in junior initiatives. It may not be as
glamorous as elite golf, but long-term what is being done at grass
roots now will influence the health of the game in years to come. The
junior percentage of total membership, vacancies, fees and barriers to
entry remain similar to those identified in the census two years ago,
although on a more positive note the number of golf clubs that charge
a junior entrance fee and the average cost of these fees has reduced.
Sue Dennis, ELGA Secretary states: "Our affiliated golf clubs have
asked for assistance and as governing bodies we must continue to work
together with our clubs and counties to ensure that golf is both
accessible and affordable"
The research covers a variety of other topics such as waiting lists,
joining procedures, handicaps, and competitions and contains county
breakdowns and general targets. It also questions a number of subjects
such as the standard and accessibility of facilities, different types
of membership to help retain youngsters and the strength of junior
structures within golf clubs.
The Golf Club Membership Questionnaire 2002 Results Booklet is
available in hard copy format and on the Golf Development section of
the EGU website - www.englishgolfunion.org
For more information please contact:
Richard Flint
EGU Golf Development Manager
Tel: 01526 354500
E-Mail: rflint@englishgolfunion.org
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