Former England striker Jay Bothroyd has found a new passion in golf and hopes to increase diversity and access to the sport for young players. Bothroyd, who started his football career at Arsenal before moving to Serie A and then several English clubs, started playing golf more seriously while in Japan during the Covid-19 pandemic. He now hosts a YouTube channel with PGA pro Trey Niven, aiming to break down socio-economic barriers in golf and show that it is a sport for everyone, not just middle-aged white men.
The OuttaBoundz Show, hosted by Bothroyd and Niven, focuses on making golf more inclusive and accessible to all. They aim to show the next generation that golf can be fun and enjoyable for everyone, regardless of their background or financial status. By partnering with organizations like the Golf Foundation, they hope to provide opportunities for those who may not have the means to purchase golf clubs or access courses. Their goal is to create a welcoming environment where anyone can try golf and experience the joy of the sport.
Bothroyd’s personal connection to prostate cancer has also motivated him to raise awareness and funds for research. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men, with one in four black men being affected by the disease. Bothroyd’s own father was diagnosed and treated for prostate cancer last year, prompting him to support Prostate Cancer UK’s Big Golf Race fundraising challenge. By participating in the event, Bothroyd hopes to contribute to the understanding of why there is a higher risk of prostate cancer among black men and help save lives through research and treatment.
Bothroyd’s commitment to promoting diversity and accessibility in golf extends beyond his YouTube channel and fundraising efforts. He has visited colleges to introduce students to the sport, showing them that golf can be exciting and enjoyable. Many of the students he encountered had never played golf before, but after a clinic and some basic lessons, they expressed interest in trying golf further. By sharing his own journey into golf and breaking stereotypes, Bothroyd hopes to inspire a new generation of players who may not have considered the sport before.
The OuttaBoundz Show has become a platform for sharing stories and experiences from diverse golfers, showcasing the variety of backgrounds and journeys into the sport. By engaging with the golfing community and highlighting different perspectives, Bothroyd and Niven aim to create a more inclusive environment within the sport. Their message is clear: golf is for everyone, and with the right opportunities and support, anyone can enjoy the game regardless of their background or circumstances.
In addition to his efforts to promote diversity and access in golf, Bothroyd is also focused on raising awareness about prostate cancer and supporting research initiatives. With a personal connection to the disease through his father’s diagnosis, Bothroyd is dedicated to making a difference and contributing to the fight against prostate cancer. By participating in events like Prostate Cancer UK’s Big Golf Race, he is combining his passion for golf with a commitment to helping others and raising awareness for an important cause.
By leveraging his platform and influence as a former professional footballer, Bothroyd is able to reach a wide audience and make a positive impact in both the golfing and broader community. His dedication to supporting diverse participation in golf, raising awareness about prostate cancer, and giving back to those in need exemplifies his commitment to making a difference and inspiring others to do the same. Through his actions and advocacy, Bothroyd is setting an example of how sports can be a powerful tool for creating positive change and bringing people together for a common goal.
