GOLF IRELAND REPORT REVEALS MEMBERSHIP BOOM
Golf Ireland commissioned survey reveals 72% of golf clubs increased their membership in the last 12 months. (Photo: Golf Ireland)
Golf Ireland, in collaboration with Sporting Insights, has unveiled a second National Club Survey which shows 72% of clubs increased their membership over the previous 12 months.
The findings report 63% of clubs on the island have grown their women’s memberships, as Golf Ireland’s LevelPar programme continues to support participation and inclusion and the advancement of women in the game.
Golf Ireland’s work in schools has resulted in over 56,000 students experiencing the game since 2024 and this aligns with the significant growth seen in junior membership. Girls' involvement in those school programmes also remains steady between 49% and 51% each year, while 49% of clubs reported an increase in junior girls, with 8% fewer clubs reporting girls leaving the game compared to the previous report.
This report also investigates areas such as club governance and policies, the provision of facilities, club finances and engagement with Golf Ireland. Golf Ireland distributed the survey in December 2025, and clubs could provide their answers until 10 February 2026, where 261 clubs responded, with the findings based on the information provided.
On average clubs have gained 32 members, the average full adult membership is now €1,005, while 81% of clubs are financially stable or profitable, with 53% of club income coming from memberships.
This comes from a backdrop where Golf Ireland’s Economic Impact Report last year showed 15,600 jobs are supported by golf, with 21% directly within clubs and a 129% growth in golf-related employment since 2014.
“It’s really encouraging to see so many clubs reporting growth at a time when they are working hard to balance increased demand with the realities of running a modern golf club,” said Golf Ireland CEO Mark Kennelly.
“It’s clear clubs continue to invest time and effort into creating welcoming environments for new and existing members. And we’re pleased with the progress being made in growing participation among women and girls. There is still more to do but these results are positive.”
Vincent Foley, Director of Development and Club Support added:
“This report is being made available to clubs to help them to benchmark their operations. This will assist the leaders in each golf club to make informed decisions to improve their governance and management practices. We thank clubs for putting the time and effort into completing this survey and our club support team will continue to work with them to provide our broader support services.”
About Golf Ireland
Golf Ireland is the single Governing Body for Golf on the island of Ireland. Our vision is that golf is a game for everyone - for enjoyment, for health, and for life.
Our purpose is to be a modern, inclusive and cohesive governing body that untaps the immense potential of golf throughout the island. We believe in a bright and vibrant future for golf. We know that we are stronger together and are at our best when we are inclusive, open and accessible.
About Sporting Insights
Sporting Insights is a specialist sports research and insights consultancy with over 40 years of experience delivering independent research across the sports sector.
Known for its expertise in golf, the company works with organisations throughout the game, including The R&A, national governing bodies, clubs, brands and major events. Its bespoke research programmes help clients understand participation, membership, customer experience and market trends, enabling informed decision-making and supporting the development of the sport at all levels.