The U.S. Women’s Open: Empowering the Next Generation Through Golf

The U.S. Women’s Open stands as a monumental event in golf, showcasing not just the sport’s finest competitors but also serving as a platform to uplift and empower women in the golf industry. The heart of this occasion lies beneath the surface—a rich tapestry of networking opportunities, mentorship, and community that highlights the essence of the game. In 2025, the event at Erin Hills brought forth a transformative initiative: "Golf With Us," presented by Ally. This program not only featured extraordinary athletes but also embedded valuable life lessons into the world of golf.

Among the many reasons the U.S. Women’s Open captivates enthusiasts, the focus on people rather than mere scores or statistics rises above all. It’s about the connections forged and the legacies built. This year, the leadership panel hosted aspiring female collegiate athletes and business majors, giving them an intimate look into how golf can serve as a remarkable business tool. With industry veterans sharing their experiences, the event encapsulated the very spirit of golf, showing that it is more than just a game.

The foundational work for this initiative began with an introductory golf clinic led by Ally and the USGA. With the guidance of Ally ambassador and former World No. 1 Lilia Vu, young women received not only golf instruction but also insights into how to leverage the sport for personal and professional growth. This set the stage for the following panel discussions, where the stories shared resonated deeply with everyone in attendance and encouraged reflection on the power of golf in one’s life and career.

As the panel session unfolded, I found myself surrounded by young women eager to learn from three distinguished panelists: Chereé Hicks, Jean Beakey, and Stephanie Marciano. Tisha Alyn, a prominent figure in golf media, expertly moderated the event, posed thought-provoking questions and guided the discussions toward meaningful insights that participants could carry with them. Each panelist brought a diverse background filled with unique experiences that perfectly illustrated how golf intersects with various career paths.

Chereé Hicks, with her infectious spirit and humor, began by recounting her journey from a successful collegiate track and field athlete to a pivotal role in overseeing U.S. National Development Program grants at the USGA. Hicks offered invaluable advice that everyone could appreciate: don’t hesitate to take risks, such as going for that extra shot, just as she learned to confront obstacles in her own athletic journey. Her encouragement to embrace imperfections and explore the sport without fear struck a chord with attendees and reminded young players that growth often comes from stepping outside comfort zones.

By sharing a personal anecdote about her mother taking up golf at 67, Hicks further emphasized that golf is for everyone, regardless of age or skill level. She highlighted the importance of being open to new experiences and shared a story about her friend’s unexpected networking success during a work gathering. This anecdote served as a reminder to the young women present that every opportunity, no matter how small, can lead to significant connections and opportunities in an industry where relationships matter immensely.

The next voice to grace the panel was Jean Beakey, the VP of strategy and sponsorships at NBC Sports Group. Beakey adeptly intertwined the worlds of golf and entertainment, detailing how networking on the golf course could lead to lasting professional relationships. With years of experience behind her, Beakey underscored the significance of golf, not just for sport but also as a powerful conduit for cultivating connections that can propel one’s career forward. Her narrative of inclusion and mentorship inspired many young women who were eager to forge their paths in a traditionally male-dominated industry.

Stephanie Marciano, head of sports and entertainment marketing at Ally, was the final panelist. Marciano illuminated the similarities between athletes and business professionals, highlighting traits like dedication, resiliency, and the ability to receive constructive feedback. She spoke passionately about Ally’s commitment to equitably invest in men’s and women’s sports, prompting conversations that are influential in promoting gender equality in athletics. Her practical tips regarding body language, engagement, and confidence during interviews resonated well with the audience, empowering them to approach future opportunities with newfound confidence.

As an avid supporter of women’s empowerment, attending such panels during my years in college was a regular occurrence, but one focusing specifically on golf was refreshingly unique. This gathering brought together a community of passionate individuals dedicated to uplifting one another, making it clear that the sport can significantly enhance both personal and professional lives. Leaving the session, I felt an electric mix of inspiration and hope for what’s to come—it’s evident that these young women will take meaningful lessons from the event, applying them not just on the golf course but in their future endeavors.

Ultimately, the essence of the U.S. Women’s Open transcends competitive spirit; it rests in the relationships crafted and the empowerment proliferated within its realm. The gathering was an affirmation that golf—weaving together history, tenacity, and progression—serves as a social conduit that can break barriers and drive change. As the golf community continues to grow, so too does its potential to reshape futures, encourage ambition, and fortify the bonds formed on the course.

The camaraderie among female golf enthusiasts at the U.S. Women’s Open highlighted that while scores may matter, the connections forged, the stories shared, and the women empowered will leave the most enduring legacies. Events like "Golf With Us" by Ally not only illuminate individual stories of success but also inspire a collective movement toward inclusivity and diversity in sports. Here’s to fostering more of these empowering connections, both in golf and beyond, ensuring that the game opens doors for generations to come.