Swedish Golf Success: Its History and Future

Abstract

Swedish elite golfers have been unusually successful on the golf circuit, despite coming from a country with only 9 million people and with a climate that makes it impossible to play golf for more than 6 months a year. The study aimed to find an explanation for this success through interviews with professional players, their coaches and other experts in the field. Results point to a number of factors, including: A): the structure and organization of Swedish golf, b) well established training programs in the clubs, c) motivated and skilful coaches, d) a priority on developing the whole person rather than a singular focus on the golfer, and e) a team spirit that made golf the most fun sport imaginable for the players. As for the future, many respondents stressed the importance of: a) all-round training, b) a higher priority on developing the mental side of the game, and c) the need for a holistic approach to developing the player Organization and structure seem to be what most respondents –players and experts alike – consider the key factor when trying to explain the success of Swedish golf. Yet, at the same time having fun emerges as an important aspect