England Golf has welcome Durham-born former England and Chelsea goalkeeper Carly Telford as a Game Changer – part of the organisation’s new initiative to showcase golf as a safe, inclusive, sustainable and inspirational sport.
Carly – who earned 27 caps for the Lionesses and represented her country at World Cups, European Championships and the Olympic Games – has already made her mark in golf through her involvement with iGolf, England Golf’s platform for independent golfers.
Having discovered the sport after retiring from professional football, she has spoken openly about how golf has provided her with flexibility, motivation and a new competitive outlet.
The Game Changers campaign – launched in September 2025 – brings together influential individuals from across sport and society who are committed to highlighting golf’s many physical, mental and social benefits.
“When my dad was playing golf all the time, I couldn’t think of anything worse! Now I’ve picked it up, I want to tell as many women and girls about this great game that they might not hear enough about,” said Carly.
“It’s about how we show that it’s a safe space for women, and show that it’s an incredible community which you might not have found before. It gets you outdoors, you get to meet new people, you get to network, you get to exercise, and I think you get to wear cool clothes!
“For me, being a Game Changer is really applicable as I do want to change the game and make women and girls fall in love with this beautiful sport.
“Growing women in sport isn’t something I signed up to do intentionally, but it’s something I was able to do through the love of the game. Football was such a powerful sport for me and since finding golf, I’ve fallen in love with it and I want to show how it can create a community, a space where you can talk to each other as women, and that it doesn’t matter how good or bad you are, there’s a space for you.
“That’s the most important thing – whether you’re on the driving range learning or on the course with your pals – that’s the space I want to progress and show women and girls how to do that is super important.”
As part of her role, Carly will support England Golf’s ongoing campaigns to empower women and girls, promote sustainability and encourage participation at every level. She will share her story through events, media and digital platforms – helping to break down barriers and inspire others to pick up a club for the first time.
