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JP Van Der Walt: From Pro Golf Trailblazer to Mentor for LGBTQ+ Youth
READ TIME: 3 MIN.
JP Van Der Walt’s journey in golf began on the fairways of South Africa, where he cultivated his skills as a junior player before crossing continents to compete at the collegiate level in the United States at Columbus State University in Georgia. His passion and dedication propelled him onto the professional circuit, predominantly with the Sunshine Tour in South Africa, where he played for five years. During this period, Van Der Walt made a significant personal and professional decision: he came out as gay while still actively competing, a rare move in the traditionally conservative world of professional golf .
Reflecting on his career, Van Der Walt recalls the unique challenges and triumphs of being an out athlete. “Navigating life as a gay pro golfer and coming out while I was competing was both daunting and liberating,” he shared in a recent interview. The visibility he brought to LGBTQ+ athletes in golf helped break down barriers and inspired others to embrace their authentic selves .
After retiring from professional play, Van Der Walt transitioned to coaching, accumulating over a decade of experience guiding both collegiate and aspiring young golfers. His coaching career has included influential roles at Augusta University, Columbus State University, and, more recently, as an assistant coach at the College of Charleston, where he contributed to some of the program’s most successful seasons, including multiple championship wins and NCAA appearances .
Today, Van Der Walt’s primary focus is at the College Golf Guide, where he works directly with high school students to help them navigate the path to collegiate golf. “My day-to-day right now is just talking to kids and helping them figure out their best fit for college, and getting them ready to play college golf when they get there at the age of 18,” he explained. This hands-on mentorship is designed to empower young athletes—LGBTQ+ and otherwise—to thrive in a sport that is still finding its footing on inclusivity .
Van Der Walt’s advocacy has gained renewed attention in the wake of World Pride 2025, where he witnessed the evolving landscape of LGBTQ+ representation in golf firsthand. “With several decades in golf, I have hope for a better future—both within the golf landscape and for LGBTQ+ athletes,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of visibility and community in changing attitudes within the sport .
His efforts extend beyond technical coaching; Van Der Walt is recognized for fostering supportive environments where young golfers can discuss the intersections of identity and athleticism. “Golf is a connecting sport,” he often notes, highlighting its capacity to bring diverse groups together and encourage honest conversation over hours spent on the course .
As the world of sports continues to grapple with representation and belonging, Van Der Walt’s story serves as a touchstone for progress. He remains an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ athletes, emphasizing the need for visible role models and proactive mentorship. By sharing his journey and dedicating his career to the next generation, he is helping to ensure that golf—and sports at large—can become spaces where everyone, regardless of identity, has the opportunity to succeed and be seen .
Van Der Walt’s ongoing work stands as a testament to the transformative power of authenticity and inclusion, offering hope and guidance for LGBTQ+ youth pursuing their dreams, both on and off the golf course.
