Leicestershire & Rutland Ladies County Golf Association (LRLCGA) has been shortlisted for County of the Year at the 2026 England Golf Awards, recognising an exceptional year of collaboration, communication and inclusive growth across the county.

LRLCGA continues to demonstrate outstanding commitment to its members and the wider golfing community. Representatives from more than 80% of affiliated clubs attend regular management meetings, now strengthened by new in‑person “round table” focus groups.
These sessions—covering the Women in Golf Charter, handicaps, competitions and league formats—have led to practical outcomes such as club exchange days and shared learning, ensuring every club feels supported and connected.
Communication remains a defining strength. The county’s Instagram channel has generated over 32,000 views and reached around 4,000 accounts in 2025, while the County Secretary and website manager ensure members receive timely updates on competitions, training and free development opportunities. A dedicated WIGC email provides personal support for charter champions, reinforcing a culture where every club feels valued.
LRLCGA is passionate about providing opportunities for golfers of all abilities. The Junior Foxes Pathway Tour, delivered with the Leicestershire Men’s Golf Union, continues to flourish—recording 535 entries in 2025, including more than 45 girls who played multiple events. Elite players benefit from structured pathways, specialist coaching, and this year’s collaboration with the PING Research Centre at Loughborough University.
Inclusivity sits at the heart of the county’s work. All junior and women’s training is free, WIGC events are open and welcoming, and the winter development programme ensures every player can progress regardless of circumstance.
The county is fully SafeGolf‑accredited, with safeguarding overseen by a dedicated Welfare Officer. Supporting clubs through the World Handicap System™ is another key priority, with the County Handicap Advisor providing continuous guidance, training and responsive support.
PGA Trainee Assistant Professional Holly Waterfield summarises the county’s impact: “Leicestershire and Rutland feels like one big family. The friendships, pathways and team spirit they foster last a lifetime.”
This shortlisting reflects a county united by collaboration, inclusivity and a shared passion for growing the game.
These sessions—covering the Women in Golf Charter, handicaps, competitions and league formats—have led to practical outcomes such as club exchange days and shared learning, ensuring every club feels supported and connected.
Communication remains a defining strength. The county’s Instagram channel has generated over 32,000 views and reached around 4,000 accounts in 2025, while the County Secretary and website manager ensure members receive timely updates on competitions, training and free development opportunities. A dedicated WIGC email provides personal support for charter champions, reinforcing a culture where every club feels valued.
LRLCGA is passionate about providing opportunities for golfers of all abilities. The Junior Foxes Pathway Tour, delivered with the Leicestershire Men’s Golf Union, continues to flourish—recording 535 entries in 2025, including more than 45 girls who played multiple events. Elite players benefit from structured pathways, specialist coaching, and this year’s collaboration with the PING Research Centre at Loughborough University.
Inclusivity sits at the heart of the county’s work. All junior and women’s training is free, WIGC events are open and welcoming, and the winter development programme ensures every player can progress regardless of circumstance.
The county is fully SafeGolf‑accredited, with safeguarding overseen by a dedicated Welfare Officer. Supporting clubs through the World Handicap System™ is another key priority, with the County Handicap Advisor providing continuous guidance, training and responsive support.
PGA Trainee Assistant Professional Holly Waterfield summarises the county’s impact: “Leicestershire and Rutland feels like one big family. The friendships, pathways and team spirit they foster last a lifetime.”
This shortlisting reflects a county united by collaboration, inclusivity and a shared passion for growing the game.
ENDS
Contact details:
Tom Vale, Press & Media Manager
Tel: 07912 240850
Email: tom.vale@englandgolf.org
www.englandgolf.org
Contact details:
Tom Vale, Press & Media Manager
Tel: 07912 240850
Email: tom.vale@englandgolf.org
www.englandgolf.org
