At Wexham Park Golf Centre in Buckinghamshire, PGA Fellow Professional Martin Heys has turned a spark of interest into a roaring success.
Following the introduction of England Golf’s Girls Golf Rocks programme several years ago, Martin established a dedicated girls-only group that has become a cornerstone of the club’s junior section.
The community now boasts a vibrant WhatsApp group of 60 members. These young golfers don’t just attend lessons; they have become full members of the club and are actively progressing into the Bucks County programme. By offering “Fun Fridays”—where juniors can play on the range, the chip-and-putt, or the main course—Wexham Park has created a consistent pathway for girls of all ages to fall in love with the game.
WHAT THEY DID DIFFERENTLY
Wexham Park focuses on a “relaxed and accessible” environment where the social aspect is just as important as the swing. Martin, who has been at the club for over 35 years, famously coached a young Meghan MacLaren (now a Ladies European Tour winner) when she first arrived in her Newcastle United football kit. That journey inspired a commitment to ensuring every girl feels comfortable and happy.
The club involves parents through events like the “Santa Scramble,” encouraging a family-feel where parents can either join the fun on the course or socialise in the clubhouse while their children play. By keeping the door open for girls to bring their friends along, the program continues to grow through word-of-mouth and a shared sense of belonging.
THE IMPACT
"“Martin's girls golf class is fun, engaging and really enjoyed by girls of all ages. Wexham Park is very welcoming and is the perfect place for them to experience all the aspects of playing golf.”"
