The project began in March with the Golf Foundation delivering training sessions across the region on their “Unleash Your Drive” programme. Designed to introduce beginners of all ages to golf through fun, inclusive and engaging activities, the programme combines adapted equipment, interactive games, nine mental toughness tools, and pre- and post-programme questionnaires to help measure impact.
Training was delivered in Blackpool and Liverpool, with approximately 40 staff members attending. Thanks to support from the Feathers Association and Road to The Open funding, attendees also received high-quality equipment packs, enabling them to deliver sessions within their community settings. The programme was extremely well received, providing many young people with the opportunity to experience golf for the very first time.
The next phase of the project saw community partners benefit from the exciting Trophy Tour, with the iconic Claret Jug and AIG Women’s Open Trophy visiting sessions delivered by Liverpool FC Foundation and Everton in the Community. Taking place on the 10th April, the event created a memorable and inspiring experience for the young people involved, bringing them closer to two of golf’s most prestigious trophies.
The inspirational element of the project continued on the 12th July, when around 25 young people from Liverpool FC Foundation and Everton in the Community attended The Men’s Open at Royal Birkdale. Participants took part in a festival activity programme before watching the first practice day of the championship, where they saw world-class golfers including Scottie Scheffler and Cameron Young, who would go on to finish as runner-up in the tournament.
The scale of the event and the opportunity to participate in activities within such a prestigious environment made it a truly unforgettable experience. The day was further enhanced by the attendance of former Liverpool goalkeeper Chris Kirkland, who joined in the activities and spoke positively about the power of sport to inspire young people and encourage lifelong participation in physical activity.
On the 30th July, the project provided another fantastic opportunity, with more than 30 young people attending the opening day of the AIG Women’s Open at Royal Lytham & St Annes Golf Club. Young people from organisations across the Blackpool and Fylde area, including Blackpool FC Community Trust, Blackpool Boys & Girls Club, The Boathouse, Sam’s Place, United Youth Alliance and AFC Fylde, enjoyed taking part in a festival before exploring both the championship course and the festival village.
One particularly inspiring story emerged from the day when a young person, who had initially been reluctant to attend, discovered a natural talent and enthusiasm for golf after taking part in the activities. This highlights the importance of providing accessible opportunities that break down barriers to participation and help young people discover new interests and talents.
StreetGames will continue working with the Golf Foundation to build a lasting legacy from these events, ensuring more young people can access the sport and benefit from the positive outcomes associated with participation.
A huge thank you to the Golf Foundation for making these opportunities possible, and to the Feathers Association for their invaluable funding support. We would also like to thank all the organisations that participated throughout the programme, and offer special congratulations to Liverpool FC Foundation and The Boathouse for winning their respective festival competitions.