Supported by the European Tour group, EDGA continued to advance its mission of developing the player pathway for golfers with disabilities, as they work with national federations and tournament organisers — combining hands-on initiatives with meaningful research to shape the future of a more inclusive golf landscape.
Research and Development
EDGA continues to deepen its understanding of how golfers with disabilities can be better supported to reach their full performance potential. EDGA is active in studies relating to biomechanics, physical profiling, visual impairments and their impact, energy expenditure, and the use of transportation. EDGA’s research forum meets regularly and is looking to find the answers to many of the questions that are emerging.
In addition, EDGA, together with Sporting Insights and Dr Tony Bennett (PGA Master Professional), has completed new research exploring how the latent demand for golf for the disabled and how the wider golf workforce can be better prepared to support golfers with disabilities. These findings will directly inform the golf industry on how staff training, services and facility development, and appropriate coach education make the sport more accessible for everyone.
Participation
EDGA, in partnership with The Kate & Justin Rose Foundation, launched an innovative golf learning experience for children with disabilities. As part of Project 250, children are introduced to golf through school-based try-out sessions that lead up to playing a round on a full-size course at a local golf club. The initiative has already reached 250 young people with disabilities — many of whom had never considered golf before. The pilot began in the Coventry area and is set to expand further across England. Children with physical, neurological, sensory, and intellectual disabilities begin by discovering that golf is a sport they can truly enjoy and participate in. Starting with a safe, accessible “first touch” experience at school, they progress toward “real golf” opportunities at local facilities, supported by structured follow-on pathways.
EDGA also continued to enhance its training programmes for PGA professionals and coaches, now embedded within 12 PGA organisations worldwide. The programme focuses on coaching golfers with varying functional limitations — from seated players using wheelchairs to those with limited rotation or mobility — demonstrating how adaptive coaching principles can benefit all golfers.
In November, EDGA will pilot a new training camp with PING, marking a shift away from traditional “disability training” towards developing adaptable and inclusive coaching skills. The goal is to help coaches better understand, connect with, and serve a more diverse player base.
Working with Koalaa, EDGA also spotlighted an innovative hand tool called “The Paww”, designed to assist players with certain medical conditions and enable greater independence on the course.
To further raise awareness, EDGA launched new communications materials, including the inspiring short film “You Can” and its associated awareness campaign. By taking this campaign into non-golfing environments, EDGA continues to demonstrate what’s possible through sport, inclusion, and community.
Competition
The global calendar for golfers with disabilities continued to grow, with more than 130 tournaments now staged worldwide.
In the UK, new local events were introduced to reduce travel distances and increase accessibility. Collaborations with Lancashire Golf and Hampshire Golf showcased the importance of regional competitions in attracting new players and strengthening participation at all levels.
At the elite end of the pathway, the European Playoffs provided an opportunity for players in the Gross, Nett, Stableford, and Women’s divisions to test their skills internationally and qualify for the G4D Tour.
