Women learn and play golf together, build community in the process

The Shocker women’s golf team and the Women’s Leadership Initiative partnered on Oct. 11 to offer an intro to golf course for women at Wichita State. The course took place at the Wichita State practice facility at Willowbend Golf Course, which brought over 25 participants and taught them the basics of the game. Head Coach Tom McCurdy, Assistant Coach Alejandra Heinen and members of the golf team shared instructions on how to play golf, such as gripping the club, swinging and how to putt.

“The course was a great opportunity for women to learn and play golf in a welcoming and supportive environment,” said Dr. Teri Hall, vice president of Student Affairs. “This was a great way for the Women’s Leadership Initiative to learn from our amazing student athletes and we look forward to doing it again in the future.”

Hosting the intro to golf course was more than just a chance to learn the basics of the game. It was also an opportunity for women to build community through a sport that all individuals can play. This was an opportunity for women to get together, learn a new skill, make new friends and build community.

The Women’s Leadership Initiative is a network of faculty, staff and students who engage in powerful conversations and provide opportunities that build critical skills that can support women, advancing equity and inclusion.

The Shocker women’s golf team is a member of the American Athletic Conference. Eight golfers make up the roster, including five returners and three new players. These student athletes come from all walks of life and elevate the team to new heights. The 2023-24 season kicked off with the Payne Stewart Invitational in Missouri. The team finished fifth in the Big O Classic with a score of 622 and recently tied for ninth in Idaho.

Supporting the Shocker women’s golf team enables Shocker Athletics to recruit top student-athletes and provide them with the resources they need to be successful in their sport, the classroom and in life. Additionally, the support helps recognize outstanding achievements through initiatives like the Natasha Fife Women’s Golf Scholarship, which is awarded to members of the team. Join in shaping the future of women’s golf at WSU by going to the WSU Foundation and Alumni Engagement website.