‘You Can’: EDGA helping disabled people discover a new way of life through golf, friendship, and community

The European Disabled Golf Association is launching a new initiative to inspire people with disabilities to improve their health and join a welcoming community through golf

– November 20, 2025

“You Can” EDGA helping disabled people discover a new way of life through golf, friendship, and community

The European Disabled Golf Association (EDGA), which hosts a number of events and tournaments for disabled golfers, is unveiling a new campaign, ‘You Can’, at this week’s EDGA Annual Assembly and Workshops in Portugal. The launch also coincides with the EDGA Algarve Open, taking place this November 20-22 at Pestana Vila Sol, which is free to attend.

The campaign aims to encourage new golfers with a disability through the personal stories of established players, hoping to inspire others to join in and try the game, providing resources for people with a disability to learn about golf and how to get started in the sport. These resources include guidance on local venues, coaching, competitions, and community support, making it easier for anyone to take part.

European Disabled Golf Association (EDGA) You Can campaign

Participants will also be presented with EDGA’s new book, “Changing Lives”, to mark the launch of ‘You Can’, offering real inspiration and ideas for aspiring golfers.

The campaign highlights that individuals with a disability can see golf as a sport where they truly belong, make friends, compete, and improve their health, reflecting the positive impact golf can have both on and off the course.

“With ‘You Can’, we’re flipping the script,” said Scott Bennett, head of marketing at EDGA. “This isn’t about inclusion as an afterthought, it’s about representation that feels real, powerful, and personal. Golf can help boost confidence, health, community, and competition, and this campaign reflects exactly that. We wanted to make sure this project speaks to people with disabilities, not just about them.”

European Disabled Golf Association launches a new initiative to inspire people with disabilities to improve their health and join a welcoming community through golf

According to the EDGA team, unlike many sports campaigns where disability is added almost as a side note, ‘You Can’ was built by and for the Golf for the Disabled community.

The campaign also highlights diversity in disabilities, not just the most commonly represented, and brings to life the barriers, breakthroughs, and benefits that only those with first-hand experience can truly articulate. All stories are drawn directly from real players’ experiences.

We want every person with a disability to see it and think, ‘Yes, I can do that too.’ Everyone featured is a real golfer, with a true story. That’s what gives the campaign its strength,” said Rita Sampaio, the designer who created the campaign for EDGA pro bono. She encourages more people with disabilities to experience this inclusive sport.

All materials include QR codes linking to deeper content, including videos, interviews, and written stories, and are designed to reach future players in places such as rehabilitation centres, hospitals, and community spaces. The campaign is integrated into EDGA’s eight-stage programme, covering getting started, locations and assisting venues, the workforce, communication, encouraging new and regular players, competitions and events, professional coaching education, and more.

The book is available online across EDGA’s digital touchpoints and is being rolled out through member countries as well.

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EDGA Algarve Open takes place this November 20-22