This past Sunday, while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere at the BMW Championship and standing on the first tee box, I had the pleasure of meeting some truly amazing people. Amidst the excitement, a conversation about my “No Girls Allowed” hat led to a moment of reflection and frustration.
When asked about the meaning behind our brand, which stands for advocating equal treatment for women in golf and all sports, I was met with a response that perfectly illustrates the kind of outdated thinking we’re striving to change. One individual remarked, “Yeah, I don’t ask my wife to play because I don’t want my game to take all day.” Another added, “Yep, that’s why I don’t let my wife play. After three shots, she’s only about 100 feet off the tee box, which drives me crazy.”
These comments are a glaring example of the very attitudes that perpetuate gender-based stereotypes in golf. It’s astonishing that in this day and age, such remarks still surface. What these individuals seem to forget is that everyone starts as a beginner—struggling to hit the ball and learning the ropes of the game.
It’s precisely this kind of narrow-minded perspective that frustrates me. The stigma surrounding women golfers as being “slow,” “not powerful enough,” or “a hindrance on the course” is not just outdated—it’s unfair. It ignores the reality that, like any golfer, women deserve the opportunity to develop their skills without being judged or held back by baseless stereotypes.
In response to these comments, I couldn’t help but think how invigorating it would be to challenge these naysayers to a round of golf at my club. I’m confident that my friends and I could out-drive and outplay them—even in challenging conditions. This isn’t about proving a point, but about demonstrating that skill in golf isn’t determined by gender.
The need for change is clear. The reluctance some have to embrace women in golf stems from a deeply ingrained bias that must be addressed. We need to foster a culture of inclusivity, where everyone—regardless of gender—feels welcomed and encouraged to play. This shift in perspective is crucial for making the sport more inviting and enjoyable for all players.
Our mission with “No Girls Allowed” is to challenge these outdated perceptions and push for a more supportive environment. By changing the dialogue and dismantling these stereotypes, we can help ensure that every golfer, regardless of their background or experience, feels empowered to enjoy the game.
Let’s work together to create a golf community where everyone, from beginners to seasoned players, can step up to the tee with confidence and enthusiasm. By embracing one another and rejecting outdated biases, we can make golf a more welcoming and enjoyable sport for everyone.
