Volunteers have a vital role to play in sport in this country, the contribution made by volunteers to sport each year is estimated to be worth around £1.5 billion. Central Government has now recognised the need to help sport develop its volunteers from grass roots to national level.

The England Golf Partnership has also identified that the work done by golf volunteers within our game means that the sport would not exist in its present format without the hard work that the estimated 40,000 volunteers do each year. That is why a volunteer strategy has been developed, to recognise and support these people and to help us recruit more. This will ensure that the sport continues to grow.

What do sports volunteers do?
Most sports volunteers rarely use the term 'volunteer' to describe their activities, they see themselves as club personnel, event organisers, club captains, chairman, junior organisers or artisans. Behind the scenes there are treasurers, committee members, planners, researchers, IT website managers, journalists and photographers. In short, there is a vast array of roles supporting and surrounding golf, without which the game would not be able to function.

Volunteering is an excellent way to become involved in the game of golf. Many parents support their children and junior club section without actually realising they are the next generation of golf volunteers. The types of roles you can do are endless - administration, supporting coaching sessions, helping with in schools programmes, events, marketing, editing clubs websites and many more. Have a look at the job descriptions page for a listing of the many roles available to new golf volunteers.

Volunteering is a great way to meet  people and make new friends who have similar interests to you. It is also an easy way to gain experience - whether that is in specific roles such as, coaching, event management and leadership  or just by being involved in large sporting events.
You will also develop more confidence, learn new skills, enhance your current skills and have the opportunity to take part in workshops and local sporting events. Having "volunteering" on your CV can also help you when applying for University, College and even full time employment.
 
Within English Golf we have two development teams who have responsibility for the development of the game.

The EGU/EWGA development team are responsible for club and county development.
The Golf Foundation are responsible for the schools and community golf programme.

The officers work closely together to ensure that the sport continues to provide high quality clubs with new players.

If you are considering volunteering within your local club or county and want advice:
Please contact Jason Budd – Regional Development Officer (EGU/EWGA)

If you are considering volunteering within schools or in the community settings:
Please contact John Wood – Regional Development Officer (Golf Foundation) or visit www.golf-volunteers.org