Lee’s story is a powerful example of how accessible spaces can reignite forgotten passions. After losing his father, Lee drifted away from golf, a game they once shared. Years later, with the support of Virtually Golf and Lifeways Group, he rediscovered the sport in a safe, welcoming environment designed to meet his needs. What began with one visit has grown into a weekly routine that’s boosted his confidence, expanded his horizons, and it brought joy back into his life.

IT BROUGHT JOY BACK INTO HIS LIFE!!

Andrea Petrucci, Support worker

Lee’s Journey Back to Golf

Lee’s love for golf began at a young age when his father first introduced him to the game. Golf became their special bond, sharing many happy moments on the course together. But after his father passed away, Lee slowly drifted away from the sport. Over a decade ago, he moved into residential care with Lifeways Group, and while he occasionally visited the driving range in the early years, golf eventually faded from his life.

Even so, those close to Lee always knew how much the game meant to him, not just from his stories, but from how often he played golf on his PlayStation. That spark of passion never really disappeared.

One day, while helping to clear out the cellar at Lee’s residence, a golf set belonging to him was found. It felt like a sign. The team knew they needed to find a way to reignite his love for the sport.

They began slowly, hitting a few shots in the garden to ease him back into it. But returning to a traditional golf course was a challenge. For someone with learning disabilities and autism, busy and unpredictable environments can be overwhelming. That’s when a chance encounter changed everything.

Discovering Virtually Golf

In early 2024, Andrea, a member of Lee’s support team, walked past a sign for Virtually Golf on Lincoln’s Brayford Wharf. Curious, he stepped inside and was warmly welcomed by Stephen, the businesses owner, who explained how the simulators worked and how the space was designed to be calm, friendly, and inclusive for all abilities and audiences.

Andrea immediately saw the potential. The very next day, he shared the idea with his managers, and they fully supported it.

Lee visited Virtually Golf for the first time in April 2024. The smile on his face said it all. Since that day, it has become a regular part of his weekly routine. Now on a membership scheme which allows him to visit every week, and these sessions have become a highlight of his life!

A Safe, Welcoming Space

Virtually Golf offers an environment where Lee feels safe, relaxed, and empowered. The staff are kind and patient, the space is calm where Lee can choose different courses every week. By booking “The Bunker” a private simulator room it gives Lee a familiar, comfortable setting to play, listen to calming music and simply enjoy his Latte.

The controlled indoor environment removes many of the barriers that make traditional golf courses difficult for Lee:

• No unpredictable weather
• No loud crowds
• No pressure to perform in front of others

Here, he can play at his own pace, in a place that feels secure.

Building Confidence and New Opportunities

Since his first swing, Lee has made remarkable progress. His technique has improved, and he’s even beginning to invest in a new PING golf set of his own. The staff at Virtually Golf have recommended several local golf clubs which have already welcomed him to come and practice on the course when he’s ready.

The impact goes far beyond golf. Lee’s confidence has grown, and he’s become more engaged in the world around him. He’s exploring new sports like squash and snooker and showing interest in visiting museums, farms, zoos, aquariums, and sports centres.

Virtual golf has been a game-changer for Lee. It’s allowed him to reconnect with a sport he’s always loved in an environment that’s accessible, supportive, and welcoming. The advanced technology gives us instant feedback and helps him improve, but more importantly, it’s fun, safe, and confidence-building.

Andrea Petrucci, Support worker

More Than Just a Game

For Lee, Virtually Golf isn’t just a simulator, it’s a space where he feels valued, supported, and free to grow. It’s strengthened his bond with Andrea too. Their weekly sessions have become something to look forward to, often followed by a shared meal and plenty of laughter.

We totally recommend Virtually Golf, not just to families and groups of friends, but to care homes, foster care providers, and inclusive organisations. It’s more than a place to play golf. It’s a space where people can feel safe, build confidence, and experience something they may never have thought possible.

Lee’s journey back to golf is a powerful reminder of how accessible, inclusive spaces can help people rediscover their passions and open new doors. And for him, this is only the beginning.

It’s always been important to create a space where golfers can grow their skills, but just as importantly, where anyone can feel welcome to enjoy the game without worry or barriers. The idea for Virtually Golf was born from my dad’s illness, which stopped us from playing traditional golf together. So when I first heard Lee’s story, it truly hit home. Stories like his are what success looks like for Virtually Golf. I’m grateful to Andrea and Lifeways Group for allowing us to meet Lee and give support in our own small way. I’m looking forward to seeing them both again soon… Your Latte and Pumpkin syrup will be waiting Lee!

Stephen Clark, Managing Director at VG