England Golf is proud to celebrate the incredible volunteer workforce that underpins the game during Volunteers’ Week 2026, recognising the 100,000 people who give their time, energy and passion to help golf thrive in communities across the country.
New insight from England Golf’s latest 1,000-strong volunteer survey, drawn from club-based volunteers across the country, highlights the extraordinary commitment that keeps the game moving forward.
A dedicated, long-serving volunteer community
Over 99% of golf volunteers are members of their club, demonstrating the deep sense of belonging and pride that fuels their contribution. Longevity is a defining feature of golf volunteering:
- 60% of respondents have volunteered for 7 years or more and 15% volunteering for an incredible 21 years or more.
- 20% of volunteers contribute 11 hours plus per week to golf.
This long-term commitment reflects the strong satisfaction and affinity volunteers feel towards their clubs, with 85% reporting they are satisfied in their role.
A dedicated, long-serving volunteer community
Over 99% of golf volunteers are members of their club, demonstrating the deep sense of belonging and pride that fuels their contribution. Longevity is a defining feature of golf volunteering:
- 60% of respondents have volunteered for 7 years or more and 15% volunteering for an incredible 21 years or more.
- 20% of volunteers contribute 11 hours plus per week to golf.
This long-term commitment reflects the strong satisfaction and affinity volunteers feel towards their clubs, with 85% reporting they are satisfied in their role.
A growing, diverse volunteer base
While women make up around 11% of golf club membership, they represent 30% of the volunteer workforce—a powerful indicator of the inclusive, community-driven nature of volunteering in golf.
The age profile also reflects a wealth of experience:
- 42% of volunteers are aged 66–75
- 32% are aged 56–65
Why volunteers step forward
The top motivations for volunteering include:
- Giving back to the club and community
- Supporting the development of the game
- Building new skills and knowledge
- Many volunteers report that their involvement has improved their skills, confidence and understanding of how golf clubs operate—strengthening both personal development and club resilience.
While women make up around 11% of golf club membership, they represent 30% of the volunteer workforce—a powerful indicator of the inclusive, community-driven nature of volunteering in golf.
The age profile also reflects a wealth of experience:
- 42% of volunteers are aged 66–75
- 32% are aged 56–65
Why volunteers step forward
The top motivations for volunteering include:
- Giving back to the club and community
- Supporting the development of the game
- Building new skills and knowledge
- Many volunteers report that their involvement has improved their skills, confidence and understanding of how golf clubs operate—strengthening both personal development and club resilience.
The scale of impact across England
Across the year, an estimated 100,000 people volunteer in golf in England—that’s almost one in seven members giving their time to support the game. Their collective contribution represents significant social and economic value, aligning with Sport England’s wider findings on the impact of community sport volunteering.
Some clubs boast particularly strong volunteer communities, with Minchinhampton standing out as one of the clubs with the highest number of active volunteers – reporting over 200 volunteers across a wide variety of roles.
Supporting volunteers to succeed
England Golf continues to invest in tools, guidance and education to help volunteers feel confident and supported in their roles. This ranges from Activator Courses - training volunteers to inspire to the next generation - to our new Board Learning Workbook designed to help induct decision-makers in clubs.
Matt Bloor, England Golf Volunteer & Workforce Manager, said: “Volunteers are the heartbeat of our game. Their dedication, generosity and passion ensure that golf remains welcoming, accessible and thriving in every corner of England. Whether they’ve given one year or 50, their contribution shapes the experience of every golfer who walks through a clubhouse door. We offer our heartfelt thanks to every single volunteer who gives their time to support the sport we all love.”
As Volunteers’ Week shines a spotlight on those who give so much, England Golf celebrates the people who make golf possible—the lifeblood of the game.
Volunteers in golf really appreciate a little thank you from the golfers and clubs that they support...so why not take the opportunity during Volunteers Week to show your appreciation for what they do. If you’re interested in getting involved in volunteering in golf, why not speak to your local club or county body and offer your support.
Volunteers play an essential role in the game—from course maintenance and handicapping to running competitions, supporting junior golfers, and serving on committees that help secure the club’s future.
Across the year, an estimated 100,000 people volunteer in golf in England—that’s almost one in seven members giving their time to support the game. Their collective contribution represents significant social and economic value, aligning with Sport England’s wider findings on the impact of community sport volunteering.
Some clubs boast particularly strong volunteer communities, with Minchinhampton standing out as one of the clubs with the highest number of active volunteers – reporting over 200 volunteers across a wide variety of roles.
Supporting volunteers to succeed
England Golf continues to invest in tools, guidance and education to help volunteers feel confident and supported in their roles. This ranges from Activator Courses - training volunteers to inspire to the next generation - to our new Board Learning Workbook designed to help induct decision-makers in clubs.
Matt Bloor, England Golf Volunteer & Workforce Manager, said: “Volunteers are the heartbeat of our game. Their dedication, generosity and passion ensure that golf remains welcoming, accessible and thriving in every corner of England. Whether they’ve given one year or 50, their contribution shapes the experience of every golfer who walks through a clubhouse door. We offer our heartfelt thanks to every single volunteer who gives their time to support the sport we all love.”
As Volunteers’ Week shines a spotlight on those who give so much, England Golf celebrates the people who make golf possible—the lifeblood of the game.
Volunteers in golf really appreciate a little thank you from the golfers and clubs that they support...so why not take the opportunity during Volunteers Week to show your appreciation for what they do. If you’re interested in getting involved in volunteering in golf, why not speak to your local club or county body and offer your support.
Volunteers play an essential role in the game—from course maintenance and handicapping to running competitions, supporting junior golfers, and serving on committees that help secure the club’s future.
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