Sussex Unification Consultation

Who is the working group?

Pat Codd
SCLGA (Nevill GC)

Bali Bassan
SCLGA (Dyke GC)

Margaret Brown
SCLGA (Mannings Heath GC)

Karen Parks
SCLGA - (Chichester GC)

Rick Thomas
SCG (West Sussex GC)

David Blundell
SCG (Nevill GC)

Nigel Phillips
SCG (Haywards Heath GC)

Emma Whitlock
SCG - (Sweetwoods GC)

What does the working group do?

The group is reviewing how a unified structure could operate — bringing together governance, finance, competitions, and player development under one inclusive body.

Since its formation in 2025, the Sussex Golf Unification Working Group has met regularly to explore how a unified structure could best serve golfers and clubs across the county. Discussions and research have included:

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Governance and Structure – Reviewing the existing constitutions of both organisations and exploring models from other counties that have successfully unified.

Legal and Financial Implications – Understanding the legal process, asset transfer, and potential cost savings; confirming that England Golf offers grant support towards legal fees.

Membership Representation – Ensuring both men’s and women’s golf remain equally represented in decision-making, with all board and committee positions open to any gender.

Operational Efficiency – Identifying areas of overlap (administration, communications, events) and where shared resources could improve efficiency and reduce costs.

Brand and Identity – Considering options for a unified name, logo, and public identity that reflect the heritage and inclusivity of golf in Sussex.

Player Pathways and Development – Reviewing current coaching, performance, and junior programmes to ensure clear and equitable opportunities from grassroots through to elite level.

Club Engagement and Communication – Developing consultation plans to engage with clubs, members, players, staff, and volunteers throughout the process.

Timeline and Transition Planning – Creating a working timeline and roadmap to acheive a targetted 1 January 2027 go date, including key milestones for consultation, voting, and implementation.

Our shared aim is to:
- Create one clear voice for golf in Sussex
- Help break down traditional gender barriers within the game
- Strengthen governance and efficiency
- Ensure sustainability and fairness across all activity
- Build a future-proof structure that serves every golfer in the county