In 2025, the Golf Foundation’s GolfSixes League continued to prove that shorter, team-based formats are one of the most powerful ways to introduce children to golf – and keep them playing.
Working in partnership with England Golf, Scottish Golf, Golf Ireland and Wales Golf, 133 leagues were delivered through 743 golf clubs and teams, engaging 9,247 young players in competitive, welcoming and fun team golf experiences.
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The scale of delivery reflects growing demand from clubs as well as the strength of the partnerships supporting junior golf across the Home Nations.
The impact on young players was clear. 92% rated their enjoyment as excellent or good, while 88% said they would like to play more golf as a result of being part of the league
These figures underline GolfSixes League’s role as a positive first competitive experience – one that builds confidence, friendships and a love for the game.
Many clubs highlighted GolfSixes League as a catalyst for growing junior sections and increasing participation in club competitions, too, which is a central focus around the programme – the pathway and the future plans rather than a one-off experience.
The programme continued to support greater inclusivity in golf. One in four participants in 2025 were girls, with parents frequently praising the relaxed, friendly atmosphere that helped children enjoy competition without pressure. Several girls-only teams and leagues gave girls welcoming environments to start their golf journey on a course, but this was also coupled with a huge number of mixed leagues and teams, which is a huge positive.
Meanwhile, the Virtually leagues continued to grow after being piloted in 2024 – the chance for GolfSixes League to be played at simulator venues has been welcomed by a number of test leagues, and has been a great success.
Alongside local leagues, 2025 also saw memorable experiences delivered at major professional events. Thanks to the support of The R&A and DP World Tour, events and fixtures took place at the British Masters, the Rose Series final and the PIF London Championship at Centurion Club, giving young players unique moments that deepen their connection to the sport.
As more clubs focus on what happens after a child’s first competition, GolfSixes League continues to act as a critical stepping stone – linking fun team golf to regular coaching, junior membership and progression opportunities, including the expanding Golf Nines format.
“GolfSixes League continues to show what’s possible when competition is designed around young people,” said Ian Harvey, GolfSixes League manager. “By keeping formats short, team-based and welcoming, we’re helping more young people be active, build confidence and feel that golf is a sport where they belong.
“Seeing over 9,000 young people take part in 2025 – with a quarter of participants being girls – is a powerful reminder that when the environment is right, participation follows. Just as importantly, clubs are thinking beyond the league, and creating follow-on opportunities that support long-term engagement and healthier, more active young people.”
“Shorter formats are an important way of introducing children to golf,” added Kevin Barker, Director of Golf Development at The R&A, “and giving them the chance to experience the game in an enjoyable and relaxed way.
“We commend the Golf Foundation for its efforts in delivering the GolfSixes and GolfNines programmes and are delighted to see the progress being made throughout England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales.”
