Breaking Barriers, Building Belonging: Inside She’s Tee’d Up
For many women, the invitation to a golf event—whether corporate, charitable or social—comes with hesitation.
What do I wear? Where do I go? What if I don’t know what I’m doing?
At She’s Tee’d Up Women’s Golf Clinics at Dunny’s Divots in Port Perry, those questions aren’t barriers—they’re the starting point.
A new three-week women’s clinic, led by longtime PGA of Canada professional and Golf Ontario board member Nadine Lamarche, is helping participants build confidence, connection and comfort in the game—before they ever step onto a golf course.
And the response? Immediate.
“It’s been fantastic,” says Lamarche. “Participants who have played before said they learned more in one night than they had in two years. Absolute beginners said they wished they’d started sooner.”
Meeting Women Where They’re At
The idea for the program had been years in the making, but it found its moment through the right partnership.
Working alongside Laura Dunlop of Dunny’s Divots—who helped promote the program through local business networks—the clinics were designed with a specific audience in mind: beginner women, many of whom had been invited to golf events but didn’t feel ready to say yes.
The goal isn’t just to teach golf swings. It’s to remove uncertainty.
Participants learn what to wear on the course; how to navigate a golf environment; basic terminology and etiquette; and how to feel comfortable showing up.
“It’s about increasing confidence,” says Lamarche. “So when that next invitation comes, they can say yes.”
More Than Just Hitting Balls
Each session blends instruction with conversation, creating an environment that’s as social as it is educational.
Week one starts with the fundamentals—grip, posture, alignment—but also covers equipment and terminology. By the end of the first night, participants are already making contact and having fun.
By week two, the group is rotating through simulator stations, learning full swings, chipping and pitching—while also diving into how the game is actually played.
Week three brings it all together with a simulated on-course experience, giving participants a chance to play a three-hole scramble in a low-pressure, supportive setting.
The Power of Belonging
What sets the program apart isn’t just the curriculum—it’s the intention behind it.
Lamarche recently completed a doctorate focused on experiential learning and the role of belonging in participant retention. That research directly shaped the program.
Participants were surveyed before the clinic began, allowing Lamarche to tailor the experience to their needs—not the other way around.
“I listened to their voice and created a program that fit the participant, instead of making the participant fit the program,” she says.
That approach shows up in moments big and small—like participants encouraging each other between swings or sharing tips and support across the room.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to see them helping each other,” Lamarche adds.
A Different Kind of Introduction to Golf
While many introductory programs focus on repetition and volume, She’s Tee’d Up takes a more thoughtful approach.
It’s not about how many balls are hit—it’s about understanding why each skill matters.
It’s also about representation.
“One of the most common things we hear is that they love learning from a woman,” says Lamarche.
That insight points to a broader opportunity: growing the number of female professionals in the game to support future participation.
Looking Ahead
With early sessions nearly sold out and strong feedback across the board, the future of the program is already taking shape.
Lamarche envisions She’s Tee’d Up evolving into a regular winter offering—part lesson, part social experience—giving women a consistent and welcoming way to stay connected to the game year-round.
There’s also clear potential for the model to expand into other communities across Ontario.
Because at its core, this isn’t just a clinic. It’s a blueprint.
Ready to Get Started?
Inspired by what you’re seeing with She’s Tee’d Up?
Golf Ontario offers a range of women’s Try, Learn and Play opportunities designed to help you take that first step—whether you’re picking up a club for the first time or getting back into the game.
From beginner-friendly clinics to social playing experiences, these programs are built to create the same sense of comfort, confidence, and community highlighted in this story.
Golf Ontario Women’s Try, Learn & Play Series Returns for 2026
The 2026 outdoor schedule for Golf Ontario’s Women’s Try, Learn & Play Series is now live — with more opportunities than ever for women across the province to get into the game.
“The goal of this series is to create a welcoming and supportive entry point for women across Ontario,” says Madelyn Grossi, Golf Ontario’s Manager of Participation. “This year’s schedule is our most accessible yet — with great locations, more opportunities, and a clear pathway for participants to start and continue their journey in golf.”
Whether you’re picking up a club for the first time or rediscovering the game after time away, our Try and Learn events are designed to meet you where you are. No experience. No equipment. No pressure. Just a welcoming environment and a great introduction to the game.
What to Expect
- A fun, relaxed atmosphere built for beginners
- A learning environment focused on confidence and fundamentals
- Supportive, social group settings
- Equipment provided (or bring your own)
- A chance to connect with other women and experience the game together
A More Complete Pathway in 2026
New this season, Golf Ontario is introducing five Learn & Play events, supported by the She Plays Golf Initiative.
These sessions are designed as the natural next step — moving from the practice environment onto the golf course, where participants can learn how to play in a real, on-course setting with confidence.
Together, the Try, Learn & Play Series creates a more complete and connected pathway into golf — helping more women go from their first swing to confidently playing on the course.
With events scheduled across Ontario, there are opportunities throughout the season to get involved at a location near you.
Spots are limited and demand continues to grow — early registration is encouraged.
Get Into The Swing! Register For Women’s Golf Events
We’re excited to invite you to this season’s Women’s Try Golf events! Whether you’re picking up a golf club for the first time or looking to refresh your skills, this series is perfect for you.
Registration is now open, and we’re constantly adding new events.
Click here for the full list of Women’s Golf Events
Here’s what you can look forward to:
- Complimentary Golf Clubs: No clubs? No problem! We provide everything you need.
- Pre-Event Tips: Receive video tips before the event to start off on the right foot.
- Celebrate with Us: Enjoy a complimentary glass of wine after your round.
- Fun and Relaxed Atmosphere: Play a casual 9-hole round with no scorekeeping—just fun!
Our Try Golf events are all about making golf accessible and enjoyable. They offer a wonderful opportunity to meet other women who are also new to the sport. Bring your friends, make new ones, and enjoy a delightful day on the green.
The growth of women’s golf is inspiring, and we’re passionate about inviting even more women to experience the sport. We’re always exploring ways to facilitate continued engagement through the Women’s Participation Pathway, with the help of our partners and local facilities.
If you’ve been playing more often or have attended multiple Women’s Try events before, why not explore ‘next step’ opportunities with our partners Iron Lady Golf and LPGA Amateurs? They offer a diverse range of fantastic ways for you to TRY, LEARN, and PLAY even more frequently!
Are you ready to make this your best summer of golf yet? Join an Iron Lady Golf Summer League for weekly play with guaranteed tee times, league captains providing support, monthly tip sessions, and so much more. These leagues aren’t just about golf; they’re about forming meaningful connections, enjoying the sport in a supportive atmosphere, and, most importantly, having a great time!
Iron Lady Golf Leagues welcome players of all skill levels. Whether you’re just starting out or have a wealth of experience, whether you’re playing a leisurely round or keeping score, you’ll find your place here.
Join an Iron Lady Golf League
The LPGA Amateur Golf Association is the ultimate golf community for women, bringing together players from all walks of life, of all ages and abilities, in a friendly and inclusive setting. You’ll expand your network, forge new friendships, and share in the love of golf. With over 300 events across Ontario, we offer organized, social golf experiences along with educational opportunities to enhance your gameplay.
Our pay-as-you-play green fees ensure golf is accessible to all. Find out what’s happening at a local chapter near you at LPGA Amateurs Ontario.