‘Grow the Game’ has been a central mantra within golf over the past few years, and it is clear that the sport has experienced significant growth. Golf has developed a cultural influence that stretches way beyond the sport itself into fashion, lifestyle, and wellness.
From the driving range and simulator scene to social media, coffee shop clubhouses and more relaxed formats, people are engaging with golf and drawn to the identity surrounding it. Golf is officially cool now!
That said, while golf has become far better at attracting people in, there is often still a disconnect when it comes to helping people to stay in the game, particularly when trying to make the transition to join a golf club as a member.
As a coach I still see too many aspects of the experience that can feel intimidating, inflexible or unwelcoming to those new to the game. Here are some of the most common complaints I hear, but with some simple remedies too…
No Shallow End
Driving ranges are full, golf courses often aren’t. Taking the leap from the range to playing on a golf course is hard, and while a lot of clubs have academy programs for newer golfers that provide a few lessons and partial course access, it often still doesn’t feel enough to bridge the gap.
Unless there are other members who are newer to the game, or existing members who are friendly, welcoming and willing to help people feel comfortable, many beginners can still find the transition intimidating and isolating. It is one thing to learn to play golf, but to feel you belong at a club is something completely different.
Remedy
I would advertise among the current membership to recruit ‘Ambassador Members’ who receive reduced fees in return for taking new members out once or twice a month.
They can help smooth the path into club life in countless ways, from showing them how competitions work and which formats to join, to sharing when the course is quietest, how to navigate the course, where to leave their bag by each green, not to mention recommending the best item on the lunch menu!
While clubs have traditionally relied on volunteers for this, today’s tighter schedules mean this role should be formally recognised and valued. It is vital to the health of any…
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