Women & Girls' Trailblazer

Sally Benton from Eaton Golf Club is one of the three finalists at this years England Golf Awards for Women and Girls' Trailblazer.

Sally had been instrumental in gaining the club’s commitment to the Women in Golf Charter in 2021and  embarked on a programme of support and activity for newcomers to golf, as well as existing members, driven by her passion for inclusion and retention.

 By 2024, having established a team of buddies, WhatsApp groups for newcomers, and arranged numerous coaching sessions, practice activities and social events, Sally was able to fine tune by creating the Eaton Academy Programme.

This involved her organising a co-ordinated programme of group coaching with the professional, and leading supervised practice sessions throughout the year.

 She signed up for Women on Par activities and resources in May and secured agreement for an official blue tee course.

 Keen to upskill her volunteers, Sally arranged activator training, and has seen a continuation of group coaching, trips to a local driving range, and inclusion in ladies social events.

 Throughout, she offers caring, personal advice and encouragement, supports new members to gain a handicap and to join in competitive golf, and has sourced golfing equipment and clothing to get women started. She has created a culture of fun and camaraderie which extends to the entire ladies’ section. 

 From an initial group of six newcomers in 2021, Sally and her team now work with 41 in beginners groups, the Eaton Academy, or the new Twilight Membership category.

Sally has made a significant, remarkable and long-lasting impact in her 16 years at Eaton, recently holding positions of Vice-Captain (2021), Captain (2022) Competitions Secretary (current) and Charter Champion (current).

   Sally is also driven to honour the memory of her close friend and fellow Charter Champion, Lyndsey Hewison, who died in February 2024. Together they spearheaded the initiatives which Sally brought to life and she is tireless in her promotion of their shared values of ‘Fun, Friendship and Great Golf’.

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