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GOLF TEACHING PRO%u00ae 03 WINTER 2O26THE GROWTH OF WOMEN%u2019S GOLF: NGF KEY FINDINGS AND THE PATH FOR USGTF INSTRUCTOR DOMINANCEWomen%u2019s golf has experienced remarkable growth and evolution over the past decade, redefining participation, representation and opportunities within the sport. With organizations such as the National Golf Foundation (NGF) offering key insights into these changes, and the United States Golf Teachers Federation (USGTF) positioned to play an influential role, the landscape of women%u2019s golf instruction stands at an exciting crossroads. This article explores the NGF%u2019s findings on women%u2019s golf, analyzes current market trends, and outlines actionable strategies for the USGTF to become the leading authority in women%u2019s golf instruction. NGF Key Findings: The State of Women%u2019s GolfThe National Golf Foundation has tracked participation and trends in American golf for decades, providing a wealth of data on demographic shifts and emerging opportunities. According to recent NGF reports, women%u2019s involvement in golf is at an all-time high:%u2022 Growth in Participation: In the past five years, the number of women and girls playing golf on and off the course has increased significantly. Women now represent nearly one-quarter of all on-course golfers in the United States, and the number exceeds six million.%u2022 Youth Engagement: Girls make up approximately 35% of junior golfers %u2013 a dramatic rise from just 15% in the early 2000s. Programs such as LPGA*USGA Girls Golf and expanded school initiatives have contributed to this surge.%u2022 Off-Course Expansion: The popularity of off-course golf experiences, like Topgolf and driving ranges, has drawn more women into the sport. In fact, females account for almost 40% of off-course participants, indicating broader interest beyond traditional play.%u2022 Retention and New Golfer Acquisition: Women are increasingly likely to stick with golf once they start, and they are a crucial segment of new golfer acquisition, especially among millennials and Gen Z.%u2022 Barriers and Opportunities: While progress is evident, NGF research highlights persistent barriers for women, such as a lack of female instructors, limited mentorship and lingering stereotypes. Addressing these gaps is key to sustaining growth.KNOWLEDGE JERRY ELLSTROMBy Jerry Ellstrom, USGTF Master Golf Teaching Professional, Port St. Lucie, Florida