From an eight-year-old junior champion in West Sussex to leading women’s tour professionals, golf clubs are rethinking what an ambassador looks like – and in doing so, sending a powerful message about who the game is for.
Several golf clubs have appointed ambassadors recently, to help promote and market the venues. There is nothing new in this, many big-name golfers over the years have had links with golf clubs – but what might be a little bit unusual is that the profiles of the golfers are not what you might expect.
For example, a golf and country club near Horsham in West Sussex has announced that eight-year-old British junior champion golfer Billy Stott has become its first official young golf ambassador.
Slinfold Golf & Country Club has been teaching and supporting Billy since he was five, when he picked up his first golf club and began hitting golf balls at the club’s 14-bay driving range. Last year he won the under-7 boys at the 2025 Champion of Champions World Championship at Lough Erne, Ireland.
Over the years, Billy has received weekly lessons with several Slinfold Golf & Country Club PGA-qualified golf coaches, and the club has now gifted free junior golf membership to help him achieve his dream of one day becoming a full-time professional.
Luke Blacker, general manager at Slinfold Golf & Country Club, comments: “It’s a privilege to support Billy with his extraordinary talent. Our team of coaches do a fantastic job in teaching him and our other junior golfers, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for him. Rory McIlroy better watch out!”
By having a child as a club’s ambassador, it is explicitly telling the world that junior golfers are welcome. On a similar note, other clubs are increasingly appointing women as their ambassadors.
For example, broadcaster and golf professional Henni Zuël has been named a golf ambassador at The Buckinghamshire.
The presenter and former Ladies European Tour (LET) professional also represents the Arora Group’s other golf properties, including Fairmont Windsor Park and Ryder Cup candidate venue Luton Hoo Hotel, Golf & Spa.
As the home of the LET, The Buckinghamshire stands at the forefront of women’s professional golf, hosting elite competition and shaping the future of the sport.
Sanjay Arora, CEO of Arora Group, comments: “We are thrilled to welcome Henni Zuël to the Arora Group as our new ambassador. As we continue to accelerate our vision for world-class golf and hospitality, Henni’s expertise as both a celebrated broadcaster and a former professional player makes her the perfect partner to represent our portfolio.”
Gerry Ivers, managing director of The Buckinghamshire, adds: “Henni is one of the influential voices and figures in modern golf, as a broadcaster and an advocate. This new partnership underscores the club’s – and the Arora Group’s – commitment to supporting the game and setting new standards in contemporary members’ clubs and resort destinations.”
And The Island Golf Club, one of Ireland’s oldest and most iconic links courses, has named Lauren Walsh, who plays on the LET / LPGA Tour, as its official touring professional.
Donal Boyle, club president of The Island, said: “Lauren has been a valued member of The Island for over ten years, and we’ve had the privilege of watching her develop from a talented amateur into an LPGA Tour player. Her work ethic, humility and competitive spirit embody everything we stand for as a club. To see her earn her 2026 LPGA status after such a stellar season on the LET is a fantastic achievement, and we are delighted to support her as she represents The Island on the world stage. She is a wonderful ambassador for both Irish golf and our club.”
Across 2026, Lauren will serve as a key ambassador for The Island Golf Club at LPGA Tour events and international competitions throughout the season, proudly showcasing the club’s heritage and commitment to supporting Irish sporting talent. When at home in Ireland between tour commitments, she will use The Island’s premier practice facilities as a central base for her ongoing preparation.
Lauren Walsh said: “I’m thrilled to be partnering with The Island Golf Club. I’ve been a member here for ten years and I absolutely love the course. When I’m back in Ireland, I really enjoy the true links test at The Island, and it really helps me tighten up areas of my game that need work. Their whole team have been so supportive over the years and I am so proud to be representing them.”
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