Golf coaching day highlights research commitment to equality in sport

The initiative, held in collaboration with the England and Wales Blind Golf and the University of Lancashire, reinforces Myerscough’s commitment to inclusive sport, research‑led teaching, and strong industry partnerships.

The event formed part of a wider Myerscough research project exploring how golf participation can be grown among people with visual impairments, with the practical coaching activity directly informing ongoing research, knowledge exchange and coach education.

As part of the project, students played an active role in coaching golfers with a range of disabilities as part of their academic studies, aiming to apply theory in real‑world settings, while gaining valuable experience in inclusive coaching practice.

Sessions such as these provide students with opportunities to develop practical coaching skills, communication strategies and awareness of adaptive approaches required to support golfers with various support needs – key competencies for future employment within an increasingly inclusive sport and leisure industry.

The wider project exams the demand, barriers and opportunities for increasing golf participation among people with visual impairments.

Where findings are already helping to inform best practice across coaching, clubs and national governing bodies.

Dr John Fry, Research Lead for Sport at University Centre Myerscough, said: “Conducting applied research that directly informs practice is central to what we do at University Centre Myerscough.

‘’This project not only contributes to the evidence base around inclusive golf, but also underpins the student experience by embedding research into teaching and coaching delivery”.

The event also highlighted Myerscough’s significant investment in facilities and resources that place inclusivity at their heart, ensuring that research‑informed teaching is supported by high‑quality, accessible environments.

These investments enable students and staff to engage in meaningful applied learning while supporting innovative research activity.

The collaboration between University Centre Myerscough, the University of Lancashire and the England and Wales Blind Golf Association demonstrates a shared commitment to strengthening partnerships that support the wider golf industry. By aligning research, education and governing body expertise, the partnership aims to create sustainable, informed pathways for inclusive participation.

University Centre Myerscough continues to deliver industry‑relevant, research‑informed education, while supporting the development of inclusive sport at both grassroots and national levels.

For more information on the research project, please contact Dr John Fry on jfry@myerscough.ac.uk  

Read more about the initiative and research here