Tattoos on the Tee. Do they get your club’s stamp of approval?

Many golf clubs are really upping their game and becoming modern and inclusive clubs, however, are women with multiple tattoos taking up the sport and freely breezing into golf clubs without worrying? Some women are actively avoiding them because of the stuffiness that is commonly associated with the game.

These intimidations may not be totally golf’s fault. Society plays a huge part in how women feel they are perceived in the world generally. The world of golf is one big old step up in decorum and elitism in many eyes. Though we know golf is on the move, getting away from that snobby air and into a more relaxed place where you can just be yourself is hard at many private clubs. There is still some way to go.

Take one of my pupils as an example. Anelyia called me one day to discuss her golf bag designs. She’s creating bespoke bags made from sustainable products and wanted my advice.

I encouraged her not just to come and see me at Hamptworth Golf Club, but also to take part in my group lesson.

Anelyia tentatively agreed and rocked up on a sweltering July day in black leggings and a black bomber jacket. Halfway through the lesson I told her to take off the jacket before she cooked. Her response floored me. “I can’t, I have a lot of tattoos and I don’t want to offend anyone,” she said. I take people for who they are and never judge so my response was a breath of fresh air. She was soon golfing in short sleeves with her stunning full sleeves of artwork on display.