Sight-loss charity trains golf coaches at St Andrews golf course
Image of a golf coach wearing sim spectacles on practicing her swing on the driving range.
Golf has long been considered a game of precision, patience, and strategy - qualities that often make it accessible for blind and partially sighted players. Thanks to a recent training session at St Andrews, delivered by RNIB Scotland in collaboration with Scottish Golf and Scottish Disability Sport, more coaches are now equipped to support visually impaired golfers.
Neil Atkinson, Community Connection Coordinator for RNIB Scotland, led the session at the St Andrews Links Golf Academy, alongside Alan Oliver from Scottish Golf. “The facilities were brilliant,” Neil says. “It’s the perfect environment for aspiring golfers to develop their skills with some of the best coaches and equipment available.”
The training was attended by PGA Pro coaches and staff from the academy, all eager to learn how they could make golf more inclusive. “They aren’t experts in supporting visually impaired players, but with the help of our training, we hope they now have the confidence to offer assistance and sighted guidance when needed.”, Neil says.
"One of the highlights of the session involved coaches using “sim specs” to replicate different sight conditions. “This really put theory into practice,” Neil explains. “It gives the coaches an opportunity to think about the practical barriers that someone with sight loss might face in a driving range or on the course.”
Neil believes golf has great potential for inclusivity. “All of the movement and actions take place within a very close space, so those with some useful sight can often set up and hit the ball independently. Those with little or no sight can be supported by a fellow player, caddy, or volunteer.”
Modern technology is also making a difference. “Some driving ranges use Trackman systems, which provide players with detailed information about their shots. This means they don’t need to rely on sight to track where the ball went; the data gives them that feedback.”
One area where Neil sees room for improvement is the use of volunteers. “I think golf clubs could enhance accessibility by offering opportunities for volunteers to assist blind golfers. Whether it’s guiding, ball-spotting, or helping set up shots, this would be a fantastic way for existing golfers to give back while continuing to enjoy their own game.”
RNIB Scotland’s training is part of a broader effort to break down barriers in sport and encourage greater participation. “Many sports clubs are willing to be more inclusive but need guidance on how to do it,” Neil says. “By providing awareness and training, we’re ensuring that more people with sight loss can enjoy the benefits of sport.”
For anyone with sight loss wanting to try golf or another sport, Neil’s advice is simple: “Reach out to organisations like Scottish Disability Sport or your local leisure facility. There are so many accessible opportunities out there - it’s just about finding the right support.”