Excitement Builds for the 2025 RSM European Play-offs at North Hants Golf Club

A Showcase of Talent and Inclusivity in Golf for Disabled Athletes

32 European Golfers with Disabilities Set to Compete in RSM European Play-offs

North Hants Golf Club, England – The excitement is palpable as 32 talented golfers with disabilities prepare to tee off in the highly anticipated RSM European Play-offs, taking place from September 9-11 at the picturesque North Hants Golf Club. This year’s tournament promises to showcase the incredible skills and determination of athletes from 14 different countries, all vying for glory in one of the season’s most challenging events.

Since its inception in 2021, the RSM European Play-offs have become a celebrated fixture in the golf calendar, providing a platform for golfers across the disability spectrum—including physical, intellectual, and sensory impairments—to compete at a high level. Qualification through the World Ranking for Golfers with Disability (WR4GD) has inspired many to aim for this prestigious end-of-season finale.

A New Era of Inclusivity

The RSM Play-offs are particularly noteworthy for their inclusive approach, allowing players who may not have qualified for the G4D Tour in the past two years to participate. With the introduction of Nett events, golfers now have more opportunities to showcase their talents and gain valuable competitive experience.

EDGA, the governing body for golf for the disabled, has played a pivotal role in expanding the tournament, reflecting the growing number of golfers participating in events across Europe. This year, the tournament features a women’s category for the second consecutive year, with eight female players competing alongside their male counterparts in Gross, Nett, and Stableford divisions.

Meet the Competitors

Among the competitors is France’s Melody Roccaz, a first-time participant in the women’s category. The 23-year-old, who plays from a seated mobility device, expressed her excitement: “It is a real honor for me and a new milestone to check off in my life. I can’t wait to be there but I am also a bit nervous because I hope to live up to the event.”

Another debutant, Reinhard Berer from Austria, has a remarkable story. After losing both legs in a tragic accident, he took up golf just months later. “Golf is incredibly good for my soul. I’ve found my way back to life,” he said, highlighting the transformative power of the sport.

Returning competitor Nicky Weeks from England, who lives with multiple sclerosis, shared her enthusiasm: “It was very exciting to hear I was playing in the RSM Play-offs for a second year. We are gaining strength from each other; it’s an exciting time to be part of it.”

A Competitive Edge

The tournament format features matchplay rounds over three days, with each division of eight players battling for the championship title. This innovative setup has seen players with various disabilities share the fairways, fostering camaraderie and mutual respect among competitors.

EDGA President Dr. Tony Bennett expressed his excitement for the event, stating, “We are hugely excited to welcome the strongest of international fields for the 2025 RSM European Play-offs. Together with our trusted event partners RSM UK, we have aimed to create an inclusive tournament with a highly competitive edge.”

Nick Sladden, a partner at RSM UK, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the positive impact of golf on individuals with disabilities. “Our involvement in the Play-off Series has allowed us to witness first-hand the incredible talent and resilience of these athletes,” he said.

The Road Ahead

As the tournament approaches, anticipation continues to build. With a diverse field of competitors and a commitment to inclusivity, the RSM European Play-offs are set to be a landmark event in the world of golf for the disabled. The stage is set for an unforgettable showcase of skill, determination, and sportsmanship at North Hants Golf Club.

Qualifying Players for the RSM European Play-offs:

• Gross Division: Frederik Brokfelt-Christiansen (Denmark), Manuel De Los Santos (France), Vincent Helly (France), and others.
• Nett Division: Reinhard Berer (Austria), Ben Bowen (England), Ellen Larsen (Norway), and others.
• Stableford Division: Jan Boström (Sweden), Mario Gazzetta (Italy), Lars Johansson (Sweden), and others.
• Women’s Division: Mascha Bos (Netherlands), Melody Roccaz (France), Nicky Weeks (England), and others.

As the countdown begins, all eyes will be on North Hants Golf Club, where these remarkable athletes will demonstrate their passion for the game and inspire others to follow in their footsteps.