A golf club is in the running for the Club of the Year award at the 2026 England Golf Awards.
Gaudet Luce Golf & Leisure in Droitwich has seen a landmark year of community impact, inclusive growth, and innovative player development.
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The success of its ‘Swing Into Golf’ programme is at the heart of the club’s nomination.
This initiative has brought more than 250 new golfers to the sport in just seven months – creating one of Worcestershire’s most effective and welcoming pathways into golf.
‘Swing Into Golf’ is designed to remove barriers and make the sport accessible to complete beginners.
It offers a friendly, three-level structure. Participants start with a free four-week Level 1 introduction, progressing through Level 2 and Level 3.
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The clear pathway bridges the gap between the driving range and independent play, helping new golfers build confidence, skills, and a genuine connection to the sport.
Gaudet Luce Golf & Leisure in Droitwich (Image: England Golf)
More than 55 participants have advanced to Level 3 and taken up the club’s reduced beginner membership.
Gaudet Luce has also brought in a dedicated Golf Participation and Events Manager, ensuring each new player is supported and smoothly introduced to club life.
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Facilities include an 18-hole course, 9-hole Par 3, practice areas, and ‘vibrant’ social areas.
These provide the ideal environment for beginners to move from lessons to regular group rounds and full membership.
Non-members are welcome to practise or play and short-game areas are free to use, thanks to an open-door policy.
The Par 3 course also has disc golf and footgolf, appealing to a wider variety of sports players.
As a ‘SafeGolf’ accredited club, the teaching of ‘The Spirit of Golf’ ensures all new players learn essential ‘courtesies’ and feel confident on the course.
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A range of additional events and activities are also organised by the club.
The club’s welcoming culture is further promoted by extra events for women, a bigger range of women’s clothing, and more family-friendly activities.
Looking ahead, Gaudet Luce is set to launch Level 4 of Swing Into Golf in March 2026.