Addressing Golf's Diversity and Accessibility Barriers

12/14/23 • 45 min

Join us as we delve into the world of golf with Nacho Giraldo, a philanthropist and advocate for Park Golf. Park Golf is an exciting initiative to bring the game of golf to new generations of young golfers. Park Golf will give kids an opportunity to experience the thrill of golf by breaking the barriers of access, cost, time, and intimidation.

On this episode of the GIG Podcast, discover the barriers to golf participation and the innovative solutions needed, but be prepared for a shocking revelation that leaves the future of the game in uncertainty. Tune in and brace yourself for the unexpected twist in the world of golf.

Our special guest is Nacho Giraldo.

Nacho Giraldo, a passionate advocate for expanding golf's accessibility, brings a unique perspective to the industry. Hailing from Colombia, his early experiences with golf were limited by the sport's elitist nature. His dedication to breaking down participation barriers led him to champion initiatives like Park Golf, reflecting his commitment to making the game more inclusive. With a background encompassing philanthropy, investing, and strategic planning, Nacho's multifaceted approach offers an insightful contribution to the dialogue surrounding golf's growth and diversification.

“Where are those people coming from in 30 years? Make sure you're getting them today”. - Nacho Giraldo

In this episode, you will be able to:

Overcome Golf Participation Barriers: Unlock the secrets to making golf more accessible for everyone.
Embrace Park Golf as an Inclusive Solution: Discover the innovative approach to making golf enjoyable for all.
Emphasize Importance of Diversity in Golf: Explore the benefits of a diverse and inclusive golfing community.
Shape the Future of Golf and Preserve the Game: Uncover the strategies to ensure the longevity and relevance of golf.
Addressing the Five Barriers to Golf Participation: Learn how to tackle the obstacles preventing broader golf engagement.

Overcoming Golf Participation Barriers

The path to widespread golf participation demands a focus on breaking down barriers. This involves addressing issues of access, intimidation, diversity, time commitment, and expense. By tailoring solutions to the needs of the target demographic, golf can become a universal sport that appeals to wider, more diverse audiences.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

Visit park-golf.org to learn more about the Park Golf movement and how it can benefit your local community and the golf industry.
Consider donating to support the Park Golf initiative and help bring this innovative and inclusive golf experience to neighborhoods across the continent.
Explore ways to break down the barriers to golf participation at your own golf club or facility, such as offering free junior golf programs, creating accessible and welcoming environments for diverse communities, and promoting a positive and inclusive golf experience.
Connect with Nacho Giraldo and the Park Golf team to discuss potential partnerships, collaborations, or volunteer opportunities to support the growth of the game and the Park Golf movement.

To learn more about Golf Industry Guru, and to gain access to online golf business education from the world's most successful business, golf, & hospitality industry leaders, visit us at www.golfindustryguru.com.

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Our special guest is Nacho Giraldo.

“Where are those people coming from in 30 years? Make sure you're getting them today”. - Nacho Giraldo

In this episode, you will be able to:

Overcome Golf Participation Barriers: Unlock the secrets to making golf more accessible for everyone.
Embrace Park Golf as an Inclusive Solution: Discover the innovative approach to making golf enjoyable for all.
Emphasize Importance of Diversity in Golf: Explore the benefits of a diverse and inclusive golfing community.
Shape the Future of Golf and Preserve the Game: Uncover the strategies to ensure the longevity and relevance of golf.
Addressing the Five Barriers to Golf Participation: Learn how to tackle the obstacles preventing broader golf engagement.

Overcoming Golf Participation Barriers

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

Visit park-golf.org to learn more about the Park Golf movement and how it can benefit your local community and the golf industry.
Consider donating to support the Park Golf initiative and help bring this innovative and inclusive golf experience to neighborhoods across the continent.
Explore ways to break down the barriers to golf participation at your own golf club or facility, such as offering free junior golf programs, creating accessible and welcoming environments for diverse communities, and promoting a positive and inclusive golf experience.
Connect with Nacho Giraldo and the Park Golf team to discuss potential partnerships, collaborations, or volunteer opportunities to support the growth of the game and the Park Golf movement.

Previous Episode

Breaking Down Barriers: Strategies For Promoting Inclusivity In Golf with Todd Kierstead & Jeremey MacRae

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The importance of inclusivity in the golf industry cannot be overstated. Fostering an inclusive environment is not only important when trying to be an employer of choice, but it also helps to create a welcoming atmosphere that allows all individuals to enjoy and participate in the sport. By promoting inclusivity, clubs can inspire positive change and ensure that everyone, regardless of their ability, has an opportunity to connect, learn and grow through the game and business of golf. From Todd Kierstead's and Jeremey MacRae's perspective, inclusivity is the right thing to do for both ethical and practical reasons. Todd, as the Founder of Paragolf Canada, is passionately committed to breaking down barriers for individuals with disabilities in golf, while Jeremey, as a club manager, understands firsthand the benefits of creating an inclusive environment that not only benefits the club, its members, and its employees, but also makes a meaningful impact on the lives of those often marginalized due to their disabilities.

In this episode of The GIG podcast, host Scott Masse talks with Todd Kierstead and Jeremey MacRae about the importance of inclusivity in the golf industry. Kierstead is the Founder of ParaGolf Canada, an organization dedicated to promoting inclusivity for individuals with disabilities in golf. MacRae is the General Manager/COO at Bayview Golf and Country Club in Toronto.

“It's about changing the mindset of the individual, of showing them that yes, they can play golf, but it's also now changing the mindset of the industry.” – Todd Kierstead.

Here's what we cover with Todd & Jeremey on this episode:

Explore the growing importance of fostering inclusivity within the golf industry.
Delve into the unique obstacles disabled golfers encounter and potential solutions.
Be inspired by the triumphant tales of inclusivity breaking barriers in golf.
Unearth various initiatives aimed at advancing inclusive practices in golf clubs.
Recognize the need for proactive efforts towards establishing inclusive golf environments.

About Todd Kierstead & Jeremey MacRae

Meet Todd Kierstead, a passionate PGA member and the driving force behind Paragolf Canada, an organization committed to inspiring golfers of all abilities to reclaim their love for the sport, no matter their unique circumstances. Todd's unwavering dedication to giving a voice to individuals with disabilities is felt throughout the industry, making him a respected advocate for change. Alongside Todd, we are joined by Jeremey MacRae, the esteemed GM/COO of Bayview Golf and Country Club. Jeremey's extensive experience in the private club sector has led him to champion inclusivity in his workplace, making Bayview a shining example of a truly inclusive club.

On this episode of The GIG Podcast, we'll show you the real impact of inclusivity in the golf industry and how to create a welcoming environment that truly attracts a diverse community of players and team members to your club. Don't miss out on the opportunity to make a difference and elevate your club to new heights of success!

Next Episode

Secrets to Crisis-Proof Your Golf Club

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Do you want to revolutionize the way crisis management is handled in your club and improve communication? Get ready to uncover solutions that will enhance crisis management and communication within your club. Get ready to amplify your crisis management abilities and effectively communicate within your club.

Our special guest is Corey Saban.

Corey Saban is an Emmy-nominated journalist and crisis management expert with years of experience in the club industry. As the founder of CS Media Works, Corey focuses on providing leadership and communication guidance to clubs, emphasizing the significance of crisis management, effective communication, and marketing plans. With his real-world expertise and insightful approach, Corey brings a wealth of practical knowledge to help club managers and leaders navigate challenging situations and enhance their crisis management abilities. His engaging storytelling and practical strategies ensure that clubs are well-prepared to handle various crisis situations with confidence and clarity.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Understand crisis management techniques for clubs and stay prepared for any situation.
Learn how to build strong relationships with the media to effectively communicate your club's message.
Find out how to navigate challenging scenarios confidently as a club manager and maintain a positive environment.
Recognize how to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion within your club through specialized training.
Better harness the power of storytelling to elevate your club's brand and engage members effectively.

Mastering Crisis Management in Clubs

Corey Saban’s insights exemplify the crucial role of proactive crisis planning in the club industry. Less than ten percent of clubs have a comprehensive crisis management strategy, often neglecting potential crises such as theft or harassment. Corey’s key advice involves creating crisis teams, preparing holding statements for media inquiries, and recognizing the significance of effective communication in shaping the narrative during a crisis.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

Connect with Corey Saban on LinkedIn by searching for his name and sending him a message expressing your interest in his services or expertise.
Visit Corey Saban's website, csmediaworks.com, to learn more about his services and to reach out to him via email or by filling out a contact form.
Consider reaching out to Corey Saban for a consultation or to discuss your specific challenges in the areas of crisis management, storytelling, communication, and diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Explore the possibility of having Corey Saban as a speaker for your event or organization by contacting him through his website or LinkedIn.
Take advantage of the opportunity to receive free advice from Corey Saban by initiating a conversation with him about your business needs and challenges.