To have Local Knowledge sent directly to your inbox, please email Jim Spagnolo, Communications Manager, at jspagnolo@txga.org

GOLF GENIUS TM: USING EMAIL WITH GOLF GENIUS

The Golf Genius Tournament Management (GG TM) system provides extensive support for using email to communicate with players. As a manager, you control when, how, and what emails are sent.

In order to effectively email players, it is vital to have accurate email addresses in the system. If players are added to events and leagues from your Master Roster, ensure that up-to-date player emails are in your master roster. Similarly, if you want to upload players to an event or league via spreadsheet, check to make sure that their current email addresses are in the spreadsheet.

Below is a list of scenarios where emails can be used in the GG TM system:

Send custom emails to players: Compose and send custom emails (e.g., rain delay, event information, link to the event portal, event results, etc.) to any players you would like.

Round Signup Invitations: If managing a league, you can email round invitations for players to sign up for rounds in the league. 

Automated Emails: There are many automated emails players can receive due to an action they have taken. Some examples would include event registration confirmation, signing up for a round, and cancelling event registration.  

Email Tee Sheet: Email a round’s tee sheet to all of the players in the event/league or only the players confirmed for that specific round.

Players sending emails to other players: You can optionally provide the ability for players to send emails to other players in the same event/league.

Daily Email Digest: Managers for your account can receive daily emails on activity within their leagues and events.

For more detailed information on Using Email with Golf Genius Tournament Management, click here.

TEXAS YOUTH PLAYS THE FOUR MILLIONTH YOUTH ON COURSE ROUND IN SAN ANTONIO

Youth on Course – the nonprofit organization providing youth with access to life-changing opportunities through golf – recently announced a historic milestone of four million rounds played by its members. This landmark achievement marks the fastest growth in the organization’s 18-year history, with the last million rounds played in less than a year.

This achievement represents a remarkable acceleration for Youth on Course and the increasing demand for affordable access to golf. It took 14 years to reach its first million rounds played in 2020. Since then, the pace has accelerated dramatically, with the second million achieved in just over two years, the third million in 17 months, and the fourth in an unprecedented 11 months. The organization’s growth demonstrates its significant impact on youth development and its pivotal role in expanding the sport’s reach to new generations.

 Central to this achievement is Joshua Jackson, the Youth on Course member who played the four millionth round at Willow Springs Golf Course in San Antonio. A senior in high school, Jackson joined Youth on Course in November 2023 through the Texas Golf Association (TGA). His milestone round underscores the importance of partnerships like the one with Willow Springs Golf Course, a Youth on Course partner since 2019. The course has provided more than 2,000 affordable rounds to young players in the local community, fostering opportunities for youth to develop a lifelong love for golf.

Managing Director of the TGA Foundation, Kelly Kilgo expressed, “Reaching four million rounds played is more than a milestone—it’s a testament to the impact of Youth on Course. Every swing, every putt, and every round represents an opportunity for young golfers to learn, grow, and fall in love with the game. I’m especially thrilled that the four millionth round happened in Texas!”

To read more about the Four Millionth Youth on Course Round, click here.

For more information about the benefits of becoming a Partner Course with Youth on Course, click here. If you have any questions about becoming a Partner Course or need assistance getting started, please contact Kelly Kilgo by email at kkilgo@txga.org or by phone at (214)-468-8942.

REGISTER NOW FOR 2025 CMAA WORLD CONFERENCE AND CLUB BUSINESS EXPO

Registration is open for the Club Management Association of America’s 2025 World Conference and Club Business Expo, scheduled for February 5-9, at the Tampa Convention Center in Tampa, Fla. It is a chance to join club management professionals from around the world at the only event that focuses on the business of running a club. 

The industry’s largest annual gathering provides a multitude of opportunities to chart a new course and forge ahead, including presentations by stellar business and industry experts, discussion forums, meeting certification goals, networking, finding new talent, idea sharing, and exploring products and services offered by more than 250 companies showcasing cutting-edge trends and innovations in the industry. 

Additionally, with over 65 concurrent sessions scheduled across all 11 competencies essential for success in club management, the robust professional development offerings will provide inspiration for leadership journeys and insights for today’s management challenges. 

For CMAA 2025 World Conference and Club Business Expo online registration and details, including a list of featured speakers and schedule of events, click here.

BENEFITS OF CREATING AN ANNUAL CLUB EVENTS CALENDAR [CMAA]

One of the biggest benefits of having an annual events calendar is the elimination of scheduling conflicts. By meticulously planning and scheduling events ahead of time, you can ensure that there are no overlaps with significant club activities such as golf tournaments and weddings. This foresight prevents logistical headaches and guarantees the availability of staff and resources when needed. 

Moreover, an annual calendar allows for better coordination and communication among various departments within the club. “Communication is the most important part of working together as a business in the club,” said Jamie Roberts, Member Experience Manager at Renaissance Golf Club in Haverhill, Mass. The events calendar serves as a central reference point accessible to both corporate and club personnel. This means that everyone involved, from the banquet team to the marketing team, can stay informed about upcoming events, ensuring seamless execution and marketing efforts. 

In a feature article for Club Management Association of America’s digital magazine, author Jennifer McNally takes a closer look at the steps involved in creating an annual events calendar that enhances the member experience and fosters a sense of community. 

To read more about the Benefits of Creating an Annual Events Calendar, click here.

BENEFITS OF THE USGA HANDICAP REVIEW TOOL

As a reminder to all TGA Member Clubs, Phase 1 of the new USGA Handicap Review Tool has been released. This important new feature serves as an added safeguard during the Handicap Review process, giving the Handicap Committee the ability to ensure the Handicap Index® of a player reflects their demonstrated ability.

Additional benefits include: 

• The analysis is data-driven – The USGA Handicap Review tool uses the player’s handicap data to compare posted scores to expected performance. 

• There continues to be a human element – A Handicap Index adjustment will be applied only at the discretion of the Handicap Committee, based on any other knowledge or evidence they have about the player and their ability. 

To access the Phase 1 USGA Handicap Review Tool User Guide, sign into your club’s GHIN Admin Portal and go to the ‘Tools & Resources’ link. To read the USGA Handicap Review Introduction Packet, click here. 

If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact Mary Harrison, TGA Senior Director of Handicapping & Membership, by email at mharrison@txga.org or by phone at (214) 468-8942.

TEXAS GOLF HALL OF FAME 2024 INDUCTION CEREMONY

The Texas Golf Hall of Fame proudly welcomed seven new members during the induction ceremony for the Class of 2024 held Oct. 21 at Houston Country Club. 

Among this year’s incoming class were three inductees with strong ties to the Texas Golf Association: Randy Sonnier (Amateur), three-time TGA major champion; C. Malcolm Holland III (Lifetime Achievement), past TGA President and Bob Wells Distinguished Service Award winner; and Royal Oaks Country Club in Dallas (Historic Course), home club of current TGA President Lee Sandlin and host venue to numerous TGA championships. 

The other members of the Class of 2024 are Brent Buckman (Golf Professional / Teacher), D.A. Weibring (Professional Player), Mike Ray (Professional Services), and Dr. Marvin Ferguson (Posthumously – Professional Services). 

The 2024 inductees have left indelible marks on Texas golf and earned their places on the Texas Golf Walk of Fame. Their granite markers will stand as tributes at both Brackenridge Park in San Antonio and the Anchor Site at The Ronny Golf Park in Frisco, commemorating their contributions to the game for future generations to admire. 

To learn more about the Texas Golf Hall of Fame’s Class of 2024, as well as highlights from the induction ceremony, click here.

REGISTER NOW FOR 2025 PGA/USGA RULES WORKSHOPS

Registration is now open for 2025 PGA/USGA Rules Workshops. There are four different workshops being offered for interested participants.

Below is a brief overview of the Rules education options available in the upcoming months: 

• Traditional PGA/USGA Workshops: In-person, 3.5-day PGA/USGA Workshops will be conducted at 13 locations around the country from January 2025 through March 2025. These workshops include access to Virtual Rules School videos (approximately 20 hours of recorded content) and access to either the 80- or 100-question exam on the morning of the fourth day (or online on a date selected from the exam schedule).
• USGA Virtual Workshops: The USGA staff will be conducting four week-long virtual workshops from January 2025 through April 2025. These sessions include daily two-hour webinars Monday-Friday (10 hours total), access to Virtual Rules School and access to the 80- or 100-question exam (either online on a date selected from the exam schedule or in-person at a PGA/USGA Workshop site).
• USGA Introductory Workshops: These will be offered periodically throughout the 2025 calendar year and are conducted fully online. The workshop includes approximately four hours of on-demand video recordings and two one-hour webinars with expert instructors on the selected dates.
• Rules Exam Only: The exam can be taken online through an exam platform on selected dates, or in-person on the morning of the fourth day of a PGA/USGA Workshop site. 

The fee for the traditional PGA/USGA Workshop is $500, while the USGA Virtual Workshop is $375. The Introductory Workshop is $25, and the exam only is $100 (80-question test) or $150 (100-question test).

For more information and to register for 2025 Rules of Golf Workshops and Exams, click here.  

START SPREADING THE NEWS … ABOUT F&B AT CLUBS [CMAA]

Did you see that email about the special this week at the club? Check out that Instagram post about Trivia Night this week at the club… want to go? 

These are the questions club members are asking themselves in today’s digital age, when promoting food and beverage offerings at clubs has evolved dramatically. Gone are the days when traditional word of mouth and bulletin boards were the primary methods of communication. With the proliferation of social media and email marketing, clubs now have innovative ways to connect with their members, keeping them informed and engaged. 

Promoting food and beverage offerings at clubs requires a strategic blend of traditional and modern marketing methods. These new tools not only streamline communication but also enhance the overall member experience by providing timely updates and visually appealing content. 

In a feature article for Club Management Association of America’s digital magazine, author Jennifer McNally takes a closer look at how some clubs from across the nation are leveraging new technology and visually appealing materials to successfully create an inviting and memorable experience that members won’t want to miss. 

To read more on Start Spreading the News about F&B at Clubs, click here.  

MOST IMPROVED PLAYER CALCULATION

Many golf clubs and courses present an annual most improved player award as a way of recognizing a player’s achievement and dedication to the game. The USGA Handicap Committee Guide’s recommended method for determining a golf club’s most improved player at the end of a season, year, or custom time period is as follows:

Add 12 to the player’s Handicap Index® at the start date. This value is A. Add 12 to the player’s Handicap Index at the end date. This value is B.

Divide value A by value B, calculating to three decimal places. This is the improvement factor. The player with the highest improvement factor should receive the most improved player award.

Example:
Starting Handicap Index: 24.3
Ending Handicap Index: 16.2
Value A: 24.3 + 12 = 36.3
Value B: 16.2 + 12 = 28.2
A / B: 36.3 / 28.2 = 1.287
Improvement factor: 1.287

The player with the highest improvement factor is the most improved player.

Important Note: Players who had a Handicap Index adjustment (reset, frozen, withdrawn) during the selected date range should not be eligible for the most improved player.

JOIN THE TGA’S GALLERY CLUB AND RALLY FOR GOLF IN TEXAS

The Texas Golf Association is pleased to introduce the Gallery Club, a new philanthropic campaign that gives individuals the power to contribute towards building a rich legacy of a vibrant, diverse, and thriving golf culture in Texas. Through your participation in the Gallery Club, you will help the TGA continue to make the sport more accessible, enjoyable, and inclusive for current and future generations.

Membership in the Gallery Club is open to everyone who has a desire to give back to the game, including current members, returning members, those new to the TGA, and anyone who just wants to show their support so golf can continue to positively impact the lives of others.

Your $59 annual contribution will enable the TGA to continue to reinvest in golf in Texas with ambitious programs and initiatives that are designed to celebrate, elevate, and encourage golf participation across the state and at every level, everywhere the game is played.

To learn more and join the TGA Gallery Club and Rally for Golf in Texas, click here.

UPCOMING IAGA WEBINAR: ONBOARDING TRAINING SERIES

The International Association of Golf Administrators (IAGA), along with the National Alliance for Accessible Golf, will be hosting a “Onboarding Training Series for Golf Facility Leadership and Staff” webinar at 2:00 PM (CT) on Tuesday, October 29.

Session Description

Dave Barton, PGA, Executive Director of the National Alliance for Accessible Golf, will provide an overview of the Onboarding Training Series for Golf Facility Leadership and Staff designed to provide the foundation for a welcoming, accessible and inclusive environment at your golf facility, and also for those who may be working with their state or region for adaptive golf competitions or programming. The Onboarding Training Series connects the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) to golf facility operations to simplify what operators need to know and do, including recommended policy templates for cart path only scenarios, service animals and more. This training is provided at no-cost on the Alliance Education Hub, participants earn a certificate of completion, and it is approved for PGA, LPGA, GCSAA and CMAA Education Credits.

Onboarding Training Series for Golf Facility Leadership and Staff
Date: October 29, 2024
Time: 2:00 PM (CT)

>> CLICK HERE TO REGISTER <<

THE EVOLUTION OF FOOD AND BEVERAGE OPERATIONS IN CLUBS [CMAA]

Branding, Mobile Applications, and New Culinary Offerings Help Clubs Update Their F&B Operations and Create Memorable Member Experiences

Clubs are embracing a new era as they reimagine their food and beverage operations. From branding multiple venues to embracing mobile and on-the-go ordering to revamping menu items, clubs are rethinking their operations to meet their members’ changing needs and expectations.

Branding is key to creating distinct culinary identities between multiple dining options in a club. Additionally, mobile and on-the-go ordering systems are revolutionizing the dining experience for members, providing convenience and personalized service. Furthermore, the introduction of new and diverse culinary offerings reflects a commitment to catering to the evolving tastes of members and enhancing the overall club experience.

In a feature article for Club Management Association of America’s digital magazine, author Jennifer McNally takes a closer look at how some clubs from across the nation are elevating their dining experiences to new heights.

To read more about The Evolution of Food and Beverage Operations in Clubs, click here.

USGA HANDICAP REVIEW TOOL – PHASE 1 RELEASE

The TGA is pleased to announce the Phase 1 release of the new USGA Handicap Review Tool.

Also, to better understand the scope of the data-driven tool and accompanying benefits, it is recommended to first read the USGA Handicap Review Introduction Packet, which is included below, that provides additional information regarding this important new feature that will help you and your club’s Handicap Committee properly administer a player’s Handicap Index®, ensuring that it represents the player’s demonstrated ability.

 >> CLICK HERE TO VIEW INTRODUCTION PACKET

To access the Phase 1 USGA Handicap Review Tool User Guide, sign into your club’s GHIN Admin Portal and go to the ‘Tools & Resources’ link.

If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact Mary Harrison, TGA Senior Director of Handicapping & Membership, by email at mharrison@txga.org or by phone at (214) 468-8942.

WORLD HANDICAP SYSTEM™ SURVEY

The R&A and the USGA have put together a survey about the World Handicap System (WHS™) and you are invited to participate.

Your honest feedback and insights are invaluable to the ongoing review of the Rules of Handicapping™ and the Course Rating System™, which have accuracy, consistency and equity as core principles – as well as enhancing the enjoyment of the game of golf for everyone. 

This is a global survey, and all individual responses are confidential and anonymous.

To start the WHS survey, click here.

DOES GOLF HAVE A CAPACITY PROBLEM? [NGF]

Golf is a bit unusual in that the dream scenario for many serious players is having your favorite course, grass freshly cut, and no other players on the property. That’s a fantasy not well-aligned to the success of the business.

The reality is that a greater number of golfers have played more rounds over the past several years and this means U.S. golf courses – broadly speaking — are busier than ever.

After all, while there are about 4 million fewer golfers today as there were during the high-water mark in 2003, there are also about 2,000 fewer golf facilities than two decades ago.

In a recent survey of golf course operators conducted by the National Golf Foundation (NGF), almost two-thirds indicated they were “at” or “near” playing capacity.

Now it’s important to define what exactly “capacity” constitutes.

It doesn’t mean that daily tee sheets are completely full. In this context, NGF is defining capacity as how much more play a facility can handle before it begins to have a negative effect on business – whether that’s due to staffing challenges or an overtaxed golf course that leads to poorer playing conditions and less satisfied customers.

To read more on Does Golf Have A Capacity Problem, click here.

OWNER’S ADVICE: MITIGATE CYBER ATTACKS [GOLF INC.]

How to protect your course and your customers’ personal information.

In January, the city of Jacksonville, Florida, experienced what it called a cybersecurity event. No sensitive personal information was compromised, but the cyberattack affected many city services, including the municipal golf courses. A patron at one of the courses’ driving ranges was unable to use the onsite computer to obtain range balls.

In the grand scheme of things, that was a minor inconvenience. It would have been far worse if the course’s customer database had been breached, exposing sensitive information.

Today’s game has changed in many ways, and many aspects of golf course management have moved online. Everything from tee-time scheduling to course maintenance and GPS-equipped golf carts have become integrated with the internet, bringing a host of new issues that course owners and operators need to be aware of.

Though no system is truly foolproof, there are plenty of ways to make it hard for cyberattacks to be successful, experts say.

In an article for Golf Inc.’s digital magazine, author Trevor Mason takes a closer look at what golf course owners and operators need to do when it comes to safeguarding business and customer information.

To read more about how to Mitigate Cyber Attacks, click here.

GOLF GENIUS TM: GOLF HUB LIVE WEBINAR

More than 2,000 facilities around the world are now using Golf Hub, a feature already included in your Golf Genius Tournament Management platform to grow participation in events, leagues, and clinics. These clubs have conducted more than 16,000 events using Golf Hub. And, later this year, Golf Genius we will be launching new features that will reach even more golfers.

To help facilities learn more about attracting new golfers using Golf Hub, the Golf Genius product experts will be conducting a series of 30-minute live webinars over the upcoming weeks. The webinars are always free, and PGA/LPGA members will receive (1) PDR credit for attending.

Among the Golf Hub topics and tricks covered in the webinar include how to reach an expanded audience and create broad awareness and excitement, promote your events to draw more participants and fill your events, register golfers and collect payments online, organize your entire calendar of events, and delight your sponsors and keep them coming back.

To sign up for one of the Golf Hub Live Webinars, click here. 

Upcoming Schedule (all times listed are EST)

> August 19, 11:00 AM
> August 29, 10:00 AM
> September 10, 2:00 PM

BILL PENN INTERNSHIP PROGRAM GIVES STUDENTS HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE

Since its inception in 2016, the TGA Foundation’s Bill Penn Internship Program has been connecting deserving high school students to paid summer internships with TGA Member Clubs. The program not only helps teenagers to earn a paycheck while gaining valuable early work experience, but also introduces them to the numerous and rewarding career opportunities in the golf industry.

Each summer, a select group of students are chosen to intern at a member club in their respective hometown. During the 10-week period, interns are assigned a rotating schedule where they get direct hands-on experience in multiple areas of club operations. By working closely with professional staff in various departments, interns learn the importance of teamwork, gain self-confidence, and develop positive skill sets. It’s not all work and no play, though. As part of the member club commitment, interns are provided with golf lessons and designated tee times so they can enjoy themselves out on the course.

This year, the TGA Foundation was thrilled to have 20 young boys and girls from diverse backgrounds and 16 member clubs across the state take part in the Bill Penn Internship Program. It represents the largest participation numbers, both in terms of students and member clubs, in the program’s 8-year history.

The 2024 Bill Penn Interns and Participating Member Clubs are:

Conner Anderson (Indian Creek GC), Sahil Desai (Sweetwater CC), Grant Edelbrock (River Oaks CC), Victoria Farkas (First Tee of Fort Worth), Elenor Fritsch (River Place CC), Pedro Gamboa (The Woodlands CC), Felipe Hinojosa (River Oaks CC), Nihaar Kanokolanu (Canyon Creek CC), Hubert Kim (Indian Creek GC), Jack Lapierre (The Bandit GC), Ray Long (Canyon Creek CC), Rylee Lovette (Tempest GC), Walker Merritt (Mira Vista CC), Nicole Mitchell (Hermann Park GC), Sabrina Nader (Sweetwater CC), Jackson Null (Sammons GC), Gillian Pulido (Northern Hills GC), JaJa Sanders (First Tee of Dallas), Luis Trejo (Cedar Crest GC), and Natalie Wagner (Fair Oaks Ranch G&CC).

In addition to providing high school students with paid summer employment and practical work and life experience, the Bill Penn Internship Program also has long-term benefits in developing and encouraging the game’s next generation of leaders and achievers.

To learn more about the Bill Penn Internship and the many other TGA Foundation programs and initiatives, click here.

MIDYEAR ROUNDS UPDATE: PEAK PLAY NUMBERS [NGF]

At the midway point of 2024, U.S. rounds are trending 2% ahead of the midyear total from 2023 — a year during which more rounds of golf were played at U.S. courses than any time in history.

It might seem like a modest year-over-year change, but the bigger picture reveals the demand for recreational golf continues to reside in record territory. And the numbers continue to reinforce that the industry is enjoying a “new normal” when it comes to play.

We’re now in our 50th month since pandemic-related restrictions on golf were lifted. In only three of the previous 49 months did rounds fail to outperform their pre-pandemic equivalents (using 2017-2019 monthly averages as the basis for comparison). It comes as little surprise that April was the culprit in all three of those underperforming occasions, as April is statistically the most variable month for rounds due to weather unpredictability.

To read more on the Midyear Rounds Update from the NGF, click here.

STRATEGIC APPROACHES TO CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS IN THE CLUB INDUSTRY [CMAA]

Best Practices and Implementation

Pursuing capital improvements within the club industry is an intricate endeavor that necessitates a well-structured and collaborative approach. As clubs work to enhance their facilities and services, a comprehensive and strategic capital projects process is a must.

The Club Management Association of America’s Capital Improvements Handbook looks at the process and best practices and suggested procedures discussed at the CMAA Capital Improvements Symposium, emphasizing the significance of building high-performing project management teams and engaging various stakeholders, including club members, throughout the journey.

This handbook also delves into common pitfalls such as lack of strategy and leadership, unanticipated costs, and inexperienced project management. Emphasizing the necessity of time, patience, and strategic planning, this white paper aims to equip club decision-makers with the knowledge required to make informed choices, ensuring each capital improvement project contributes to the club’s long-term success and reputation.

To read more on the CMAA Capital Improvements Handbook, click here.

GOLF GENIUS TM: GOLF HUB FLYERS

One of the latest product updates in Golf Genius Tournament Management (GG TM) is a powerful new feature for creating polished promotional materials. Golf Hub Flyers is a robust design editing tool that allows you to easily create and distribute high-quality digital and physical marketing pieces, while also providing golfers with a simple way to register and pay online.

The Flyers tool allows anyone, regardless of ability or technical know-how, to create professionally designed flyers for every event, league, or clinic. Not only can they be produced in a matter of minutes, but every flyer also has an automatically generated QR code linking golfers directly to the Golf Hub Page for the event, giving them access to readily view information and sign up right away. Within Flyers, you can select from an array of expertly designed templates, which can be easily customized, or build one from scratch with a blank canvas using the comprehensive editor. Once completed, flyers can then be saved as a PDF file for printing or a PNG file for use on a web page or social media.

To learn more about the Golf Hub Flyers feature and how it can help take event promotion to the next level, click here.

ONLINE JOIN/RENEW LINKS ON TGA WEBSITE HAVE CHANGED

With the launch of the newly redesigned TGA website, Online Join/Renew (OJR) links for participating clubs have also been updated. Please note the only change to each link is that “membership” now replaces “www” in the OJR URL for each club, as shown in the example below:

Old OJR link format: www.txga.org/start/join/?cid=####; New OJR link format: membership.txga.org/start/join/?cid=####

The updated OJR links can be found on the TGA website in the Member Club Directory. To search for your club and locate your new OJR link, click here.

WOMEN & GIRLS FUELING GOLF’S GROWTH [NGF]

Some of the most noteworthy golfer gains in recent years have been among female participants.

Approximately seven million women and girls played golf on a course in 2023, the highest participation levels since 2006, which was an all-time measured high.

June was Women’s Golf Month, not to mention the peak of the golf season, and it’s notable that females now account for more than one-quarter (26%) of the on-course golfer population in the U.S. It is the highest proportion on record, and a jump from 20% in 2011.

That particular year, on the heels of the Great Recession, capped a span (2007-2011) during which there was a net decline of more than 4 million golfers as finances became tighter for many Americans, discretionary spending dipped and so did pay-for-play recreation. During that five-year window, the male golfer population declined by approximately 2.1 million and the number of female golfers dropped by about 2 million.

But as a proportion of the overall on-course participant base, the net golfer declines from 2007-2011 were -9% among males versus -28% among females.

The rebound since then had been gradual before accelerating during the post-pandemic era. Since 2019, the net gain among on-course female golfers is 1.4 million. Over that same time, the number of male participants has risen by 900,000.

To read more on the latest Female Golf Participation Update from the NGF, click here.

BUILDING THE FUTURE [CMAA]

Youth Programs are Shaping the New Family Club Experience

As the landscape of the club industry changes, the integration of robust and innovative youth programming has become a cornerstone for attracting and retaining family memberships. Clubs across the nation are reimagining their spaces and services to create a dynamic environment where every family member, regardless of age, can find enjoyment and a sense of belonging.

Clubs such as North Ridge Country Club in Raleigh, NC, Houston Racquet Club in Houston, TX, and Charlotte Country Club in Charlotte, NC, have developed unique approaches to youth engagement, reflecting a broader trend toward more inclusive and family-oriented club experiences.

In a feature article for Club Management Association of America’s digital magazine, author Jennifer McNally takes a closer look at how these clubs are shining a spotlight on youth programs, which is helping to transform traditional country club participation, attract new members, and create a vibrant community.

To read more about Building The Future, click here.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: DEADLINE FOR WHS™ CLUB AUTHORIZATION IS JUNE 30

In mid-January, the USGA kicked off the new year with several changes to the World Handicap System (WHS). Because of these changes, all TGA Member Clubs are required to complete the new education requirement to continue issuing Handicap Indexes® to golfers using the GHIN® service. The deadline to fulfill this requirement is June 30.

 Only one club representative (staff member or official) needs to view the online e-Learning course video and successfully pass the quiz. It only takes about 90 minutes, and the video can be viewed at any hour of the day or night.

 BEFORE PROCEEDING, CLUB REPRESENTATIVES PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING:

 Club representatives accessing the e-Learning course to fulfill the WHS education requirement MUST contact the Texas Golf Association to receive a unique link to the 20-question Club Authorization Quiz. This will ensure that your results are made immediately available to the TGA. To receive your club’s unique link, please contact Mary Harrison by email at mharrison@txga.org or Kristen Klein by email at membership@txga.org or call the TGA office at (214) 468-8942.

 >> CLICK HERE TO REVIEW THE 2024 WHS EDUCATION VIDEO FOR CLUBS

 After reviewing the e-Learning course video, click on your club’s unique link to take the online 20-question quiz. Be sure to verify your club’s name and edit/input the quiz taker’s name and email address in the designated fields.

 QUIZ NOTE: If you answer any questions incorrectly, the system will provide the correct answers at the end. Make a note of the correct answers and click the red “Back” button on the lower left to go back and correct your answers. Once completed, click the red “Submit” button on the lower right and the system will accept your revised score. Remember, this is an “open book” quiz so feel free to use the WHS Tools in the links below.  

 WHS Tools

>> WHS RESOURCES FOR CLUB ADMINISTRATORS

>> MORE WHS TOOLS

Please be sure to review the e-Learning course video and take the quiz with your club’s unique link before the June 30 deadline to fulfill this necessary education requirement so your club remains “authorized” to provide a Handicap Index to your golfers via the GHIN service. Handicaps for your golfers will change to “NH” or “No Handicap” for clubs that do not take the quiz and pass before the deadline.

TEXAS GOLF HALL OF FAME ANNOUNCES 2024 CLASS OF INDUCTEES

Randy Sonnier, C. Malcolm Holland III, and Royal Oaks Country Club in Dallas, all with strong ties to the Texas Golf Association, are among the newest members of the Texas Golf Hall of Fame.

The Texas Golf Hall of Fame recently announced its 2024 class of inductees. The honorees will be celebrated during a formal induction ceremony, which will take place this fall at the prestigious Houston Country Club on Monday, October 21. This year’s class represents a remarkable group of individuals who have made significant contributions to the game of golf in Texas.

 2024 Texas Golf Hall of Fame Inductees:

• Amateur: Randy Sonnier
• Historic Course: Royal Oaks Country Club (Dallas)
• Golf Professional / Teacher: Brent Buckman
• Lifetime Achievement: C. Malcolm Holland III
• Professional Player: D.A. Weibring
• Professional Services: Dr. Marvin Ferguson (Posthumously), Mike Ray

Each inductee will be commemorated with a granite marker on the Texas Golf Walk of Fame at the historic Brackenridge Park Golf Course in San Antonio, and at the Hall’s newest Anchor Site at NTPGA The Ronny Golf Park in Frisco.

To read more about the Texas Golf Hall of Fame Class of 2024, click here. The induction ceremony on Oct. 21 at Houston Country Club is open to the public, and tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information and to purchase tickets, click here.

The Texas Golf Hall of Fame is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to honoring individuals and courses that have significantly impacted the game of golf in Texas.

THE CONVENIENCE FACTOR IS KEY IN 2024 [CMAA]

Members’ Desire for Convenience Creates a Tapestry of Technology- and Family-Focused Events in Clubs

In a world shaped by the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, a singular theme has permeated all forms of hospitality and retail: convenience. People became accustomed to the ease of ordering anything from cocktails to clothing, either having it delivered to their doorstep or effortlessly retrieved through contactless drive-up services.

This trend has compelled private clubs to undergo a paradigm shift redefining the member experience to align with the ever-evolving needs of their communities. Drawing inspiration from the lessons learned during the pandemic, clubs are skillfully integrating convenience, technology, and family-focused events to provide a tailored and comprehensive experience for their exclusive memberships.

In a feature story for Club Management Association of America’s digital magazine, author Jennifer McNally takes a closer look at the some of the programs and approaches clubs from around the nation have implemented to navigate the changing landscape of member expectations.

To read more about The Convenience Factor is Key in 2024, click here.

RULES OF HANDICAPPING – APPENDIX D: HANDICAP REVIEW

The handicap review process gives a Handicap Committee the ability to ensure the Handicap Index® of a player reflects their demonstrated ability.

To assist this process, the World Handicap System™ software specifications set out a range of recommended reports, analyses and notifications which can be developed within the handicapping software used by Handicap Committees to administer members’ handicaps.

These tools will:

• Identify players who are consistently scoring above, or below, their ‘expected’ scoring range or where other abnormalities within a player’s scoring record exist, and
• Make a recommended adjustment to the Handicap Index of each player identified, up to a maximum of 2 strokes.

A recommended adjustment will be applied only at the discretion of the Handicap Committee, based on any other knowledge or evidence that they have about the player and their demonstrated ability.

The handicap review reporting tools compare a player’s Handicap Index, individual scores and scoring patterns against expectations using the following:

• The player’s expected score in their next round,
• The expected standard deviation of the player’s Score Differentials™,
• The player’s expected scoring range.

The number of abnormal scores in the player’s scoring record as a percentage of the total number will also be taken into account. The larger the number of scores in a player’s scoring record, the more scores above or below their expected scoring range are required for the player to be flagged for a handicap review.

To learn more about Appendix D: Handicap Review, including the other information that may also be considered during the handicap review process, click here.

INCREASE REVENUE, GROW CLUB BRAND BY HOSTING TGA FUN GOLF EVENT

The TGA launched the Fun Golf Series in 2015 to engage a broader spectrum of its membership with an annual schedule of one-day events that provide a casual, enjoyable day on the golf course for players of all ages and handicap ranges.

The Fun Golf Series has been a big hit with TGA Members and their guests, and each year more and more golfers sign up to participate in these laid-back outings. It’s easy to see why these events have continued to grow in popularity with serious and recreational players alike because one, they have a good time and two, they get to travel and play great courses they may not otherwise get to experience.

Hosting Fun Golf Play Days can help TGA Member Clubs generate additional revenue through green fees, cart fees, range balls, food and beverage, and merchandise sales. It’s a great opportunity for clubs and courses to attract new players and build recognition, to showcase the facility in a positive light, make personal connections, and much more.

If you’re interested in learning more about hosting a Fun Golf Play Day, please contact Brian Fry, Manager of Outreach/TGA Foundation, by phone at (214) 468-8942 or by email at bfry@txga.org.

2024 PGA BUYING & EDUCATION SUMMIT JULY 29-31 AT OMNI PGA FRISCO

The 2024 PGA Buying & Education Summit is returning this summer to the Omni PGA Frisco Resort in North Texas. The 2024 Summit is scheduled from July 29-31 and will provide an opportunity for PGA Professionals to meet with curated brands showcasing the latest fashion, products, trends, and innovations, learn transformative business strategies as part of the PGA Education Conference, and network with fellow industry members.

Following last year’s highly successful event launch at the new home of the PGA of America, the 2024 Summit will have use of additional campus facilities, including equipment and technology education sessions in the state-of-the-art PGA Coaching Center Powered by T-Mobile and the Welcome Reception and Live Fashion Show at the Panther Creek Pavilion. The three-day event will also feature the addition of a new golf retail education track to the PGA Education Conference, along with nightly networking and experiential golf events, including the event’s new Summer Jam, a nighttime concert and golf festival experience across golf, dining, and retail destinations of the Monument Realty PGA District.

For more information about the 2024 PGA Buying & Education Summit and to register online, click here.

THE EVOLUTION OF WORKFORCE BENEFITS [CMAA]

In the ever-evolving employment landscape, workforce benefits play a pivotal role in attracting and retaining top talent at clubs. Beyond salary and job security, employees today seek comprehensive packages that cater to their diverse needs and preferences. From millennials craving flexibility to baby boomers prioritizing retirement planning, each age demographic brings its unique set of priorities and expectations to the table.

According to the 2023 Workforce Benefits Study by LIMRA-EY US, the workforce has never been more heterogeneous and fluid and will only become more so in the future. Within a decade, Generation Z and millennials will make up a large majority of the workforce, while baby boomers will begin to retire, and Generation X will age into their 50s. For benefits providers, this demographic shift equates to a fundamental change in what these generations want.

Meeting the expanding and unique benefits needs across generations is critical to attracting and retaining talent, and clubs across the U.S. echo that sentiment. The competition for talent persists despite an uncertain macroeconomic landscape and changing workforce dynamics. Benefits remain a powerful tool for clubs to attract and retain the talent that they need to meet their objectives—and employers recognize that they need to offer more.

In a feature story for Club Management Association of America’s digital magazine, author Jennifer McNally takes a closer look at how some clubs are adapting their benefits packages to cater to the diverse and continuously changing needs and preferences of different age demographics.

To read more about The Evolution of Workforce Benefits, click here.

In addition to the more familiar stroke play and match play formats for single-round and multi-round tournaments, GG TM also features a wide range of alternative formats that are sure to freshen things up and enliven the experience for all.

Click on the links below to view setup instructions for just a few examples of the interesting and enjoyable tournament formats available in GG TM:

• ChaChaCha
• Lone Ranger
• Ringers (Eclectic)
• Silk Skins
• 9/9, 6/6/6 and 3/3/3
• Adjustable Quota
• Team Skins
• Team Wheels
• Treys Format

You can also create your own customized tournaments using the Advanced Balls option. To learn more about Advanced Balls, click here.

The goal of TGA Project Muni is to grant funds to member club municipal facilities in Texas to help overcome budgetary challenges so they can invest in agronomy projects and/or practices that will help improve course conditions and enhance a player’s experience and potentially create a larger number of committed golfers.

The project centers around a two-part grant funding program:

1) TGA provides fund grants for every municipal facility to cover the cost of a USGA Course Consulting Service (CSS) once every 5 years. The purpose of a CSS is not to tell anyone how to run a golf course or what products to buy. A CSS is tailored to a facility’s specific needs, assessing key concerns on-site, followed by a comprehensive report with actionable recommendations, and research-backed education materials.

2) TGA provides matching fund grants (up to $10K) to a facility wanting to implement CSS recommendations or to make other improvements that will support sustainability, enhance player experience, or make the game more accessible.

To learn more about the TGA Project Muni Grant Program and how municipal facilities can benefit from this new, strategic initiative, please contact Kelly Kilgo, Managing Director of Outreach/TGA Foundation, by email at kkilgo@txga.org or by phone at (214) 468-8942.

Industry representatives visited Bethune-Cookman University in Daytona Beach, Fla., on March 19, Texas Southern University in Houston on March 26, and Paul Quinn College in Dallas on April 9. Additional HBCUs have been identified for events later this spring and during the Fall 2024 Semester. The events include meetings between golf industry representatives and university leaders, as well as an activation for students, inviting them to come and learn more about internships and careers in the golf industry.

Launched in 2021, Make Golf Your Thing is a collective movement across the golf industry working to accelerate the game’s evolution by making it more diverse and inclusive. A critical part of the ongoing efforts is welcoming more people from historically underrepresented backgrounds to the industry, shedding light on the extensive opportunities the industry provides across the U.S. In 2023, Make Golf Your Thing supported a career day at Alabama State University in Montgomery, Ala., and partnered with four additional universities to install golf simulators on campus as a way to stimulate interest in golf.

To learn more or get involved, click here to visit the Make Golf Your Thing website.

Experts advise on two recent trends that owners need to keep in mind when considering new insurance coverage — extreme weather events and cybersecurity.

When it’s time for annual insurance renewal, take the time to assess your coverage needs. What changes were made on the property in the last year? What’s new? Insurance may not be the most glamorous topic in the world, but it is an indispensable component of running a golf course.

The most important thing to know about your insurance is, quite simply, what’s in your insurance policy. That may sound overly simplistic, but many people haven’t taken the time to really dig into their policy and know what’s included in it, which can be a costly mistake.
Suzan Charlton, an insurance attorney for Covington and Burling in Washington, D.C., recommends that everyone take the necessary time to ensure they know the details of their policy.
“I would say when it’s renewal time, look carefully at everything that [your insurance company] is hitting you with,” she said. “Don’t be on autopilot. Be a more active consumer, and that means asking questions.”
At renewal time, you should find out about any changes in your coverage. Are there new exclusions you should ask your broker about? Are there additional coverages that might be available? If your premiums are going up, what are the new rates? How does your property value affect things?

In an article for Golf Inc.’s digital magazine, author Trevor Mason takes a closer look at what golf course owners and operators should be aware of when reviewing current insurance coverage or considering new coverage, including Additions and Improvements, New Trends, Replacement Cost Valuation Over Actual Cash Value, and Liability Issues With Third Parties.

To read more about Know Your Insurance Policy, click here.

GET READY FOR UPCOMING SEASON WITH GOLF GENIUS

Season preparation is a critical part of tournament operations at a golf club. Whether you are gearing up for your first season using Golf Genius Tournament Management (GGTM) or transitioning from a prior season to a new season, there are important steps and practices to follow that will help you run your season more smoothly, as well as help you transition to future seasons.

The customer support team at GGTM has created a “Steps to Prepare for Your Season” tutorial to get you started off on the right track. Among the topics covered in the tutorial include adding and deactivating staff members as customer managers, reviewing default settings for events and leagues, creating and adding new events and leagues, updating master roster, adding or updating course details (e.g., Slope Rating, Course Rating, handicap holes, yardages) and verifying World Handicap System® compliance, and much more.

To view GG’s “Steps to Prepare for Your Season” guide along with step-by-step instructions, click here.

BECOME A YOC COURSE PARTNER AND HELP GROW THE GAME

Thanks to dedicated supporters and participating member clubs, the TGA Foundation (TGAF) has been able to continue to make great strides in broadening the reach of Youth on Course (YOC) throughout Texas.

This is the fifth year of the TGAF’s partnership with YOC, a national non-profit grow-the game initiative that allows kids and teens ages 6-18 to play golf for $5 or less, plus opportunities for paid internships, caddie programs, and college scholarships. The collaboration initially began in January 2020 as a pilot project in the San Antonio area with 11 courses, including all eight that comprise the Alamo City Golf Trail.

Currently, there are now more than 70 courses across the state that are part of the YOC community. While the progress made in expanding the footprint of YOC thus far is promising, the two organizations are working diligently to encourage more facilities to open their doors to the life- changing program.

Course partners that provide a nurturing atmosphere where YOC members feel welcome to play golf, have fun, learn, and grow, are helping to ensure the long-term future of the game. They are also realizing an immediate benefit as well.

Because course partners are in full control and decide when YOC members can play the course at the special rate, they are able to fill their tee sheets with enthusiastic young golfers during normally slow times. In addition to receiving a monthly check for the subsidized rounds, course partners report that at least 60% of the time, a parent or guardian joined the junior golfer and paid full price for their round. That means additional revenue from green fees, cart fees, pro shop merchandise sales, and food and beverage purchases.

It’s a proven win-win relationship between YOC members and course partners that has worked incredibly well since the program’s inception in 2006. There are currently nearly 200,000 YOC members that have access to over 2,000 courses throughout the United States, Canada, and Australia where they can play a round of golf for $5 or less. Over the years, YOC members have played more than three million subsidized rounds of golf while the organization has helped generate more than $8.5 million in tee-time revenue reimbursed back to individual golf courses.

For more information about the benefits of becoming a YOC course partner, click here. If you have any questions about joining the YOC community or need assistance getting started, please email Kelly Kilgo, Managing Director of Outreach/TGA Foundation, by email at kkilgo@txga.org, or call (214) 468 8942.

APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR 2024 BILL PENN INTERNSHIP PROGRAM

The TGA Foundation is now taking applications for the 2024 Bill Penn Internship Program.

The approximately 10-week paid summer internships assist in connecting TGA member clubs in need of extra help with qualified high school students interested in a career in the golf industry. The program, which typically runs from the first week of June to the first week of August, provides opportunities for young people to gain experience in the diverse areas of facility operations, including club, golf shop and turfgrass management.

It’s not all work and no play, though. As part of the member club commitment, interns are provided with golf lessons and designated tee times so they can enjoy themselves out on the course.

By working closely with golf professionals, club managers and golf course superintendents, interns will learn the importance of teamwork, gain self-confidence, and develop positive skill sets that will enable broader career options in the future.

If there is a high school golfer (16 years of age or older) at your club or course who loves the game and is personable and motivated, the TGA Foundation would like to encourage you to let them know about the internship opportunity and have them submit an application before the May 1 deadline.

To learn more about the Bill Penn Internship Program, click here.

GOLF PARTICIPATION UPDATE – BIGGER, YOUNGER AND COOLER [NGF]

The National Golf Foundation’s research on golf participation primarily focuses on the green-grass game, but it has also been observing, measuring, and reporting on golf engagement away from the course.

To better understand golf’s consumer base, the NGF looks at three different participant groups: on-course only (12.1 million in 2023), off-course only (18.5 million), and those who engage on both fronts (14.5 million).

The number of on-course golfers has now increased for six straight years, but also notable is that the demographic makeup of the base is changing – albeit gradually in a sport with over 26 million Americans who play recreationally.

The demographics of off-course only participants have looked more similar to the mix of the U.S. population overall, exhibiting a younger and more diverse representation (age, gender, race and ethnicity) than the on-course population.

To read more on the latest Golf Participation Update from the NGF, click here.

TGA/GHIN® MEMBER INACTIVATION DELETION DEADLINE IS FEB. 28

The TGA would like to remind all its member clubs’ GHIN contacts, head professionals, and golf shop staff that the end of February is the deadline for TGA/GHIN Member Inactivation Deletion.

All golfers no longer wanting to participate in the GHIN service must be inactivated in your club roster no later than 11:59 p.m. (CST) on February 28. Your club’s March billing will be based on the number of active GHIN golfers in your GHIN Roster after that date and time.

For those clubs participating in the TGA’s Online Join Renew (OJR) program, golfers added via OJR have already paid and should be left in your club roster as “active.” The credit amount (if applicable) will be shown on your club’s March bill summary.

Lastly, please take this opportunity to make certain all Junior/Minor golfers are coded correctly as “J” type with their Date of Birth and Minors have been linked to a Guardian. Juniors/Minors not coded as such by midnight on Feb. 28 will be charged the regular rate.

If you have any questions or need assistance accessing your player rosters, please contact Mary Harrison, TGA Senior Director of Handicapping & Membership, by email at mharrison@txga.org or by phone at (214) 468-8942.

REGISTER FOR UPCOMING WHSTM HANDICAP SEMINARS

The TGA will be conducting three World Handicapping System (WHS) Seminars over the next several weeks: Tuesday, February 20, at McAllen Country Club in McAllen; Wednesday, March 6, at Barton Creek Resort & Country Club in Austin; and Thursday, March 7, at Pecan Grove Country Club in Richmond.

These seminars will provide an opportunity to learn more about the WHS and renew your 2024 Club Authorization at the same time. The presentations are a comprehensive educational overview of the WHS with discussions and solutions to common situations.

Among the topics to be covered are:

• The basics of the Rules of HandicappingTM including how the Handicap Index® is calculated
• Key changes to the WHS for 2024
• Proper administration of handicapping at your club, including the important role of the Handicap Committee

Attendees are required to bring their own laptop, tablet, or mobile device. Prior to the presentation, attendees will be emailed their club’s unique link to the Club Authorization Quiz. After the PowerPoint presentation, attendees will take the open-book online quiz. A passing quiz score is required for all clubs to continue to use the WHS. PGA members receive 3 Education credits!

Attendees will receive a copy of the 2024 Rules of Handicapping Manual and the 2024 Handicapping Reference Guide. A digital copy of the 2024 USGA Handicap Committee Guide is available online.

The cost of each seminar is $45, which includes lunch and materials. Registration will start at 8 a.m. and the seminar will run to 2 p.m. Space is limited and will be confirmed on a first-come, first-served basis.

For those interested in attending one of these seminars, online registration is available through the links below or on the TGA website. Please join us for an informative and interactive seminar focusing on how to implement the WHS at your club successfully and to take the Club Authorization Quiz. If you have any questions or need additional information, please contact Mary Harrison, Senior Director of Handicapping & Membership, by email at mharrison@txga.org or by phone at (214) 468- 8942.

TGA PROJECT MUNI

The Texas Golf Association established ‘Project Muni” in mid-2023 as a multi-year financial commitment to investing in member club municipal facilities. In Texas and across the country, municipal facilities play a vital role in the overall health and well-being of the game by providing the most accessible entry point for those who are new to golf or want to get started in the sport.

The goal of TGA Project Muni is to grant funds to member club municipal facilities across the state to help overcome budgetary challenges so they can invest in agronomy projects and/or practices that will help improve course conditions and enhance a player’s experience and potentially create a larger number of committed golfers.

The project centers around a two-part grant funding program:

1) TGA provides fund grants for every municipal facility to cover the cost of a USGA Course Consulting Service (CSS) once every 5 years. The purpose of a CSS is not to tell anyone how to run a golf course or what products to buy. A CSS is tailored to a facility’s specific needs, assessing key concerns on-site, followed by a comprehensive report with actionable recommendations, and research-backed education materials.

2) TGA provides matching fund grants (up to $10K) to a facility wanting to implement CSS recommendations or to make other improvements that will support sustainability, enhance player experience, or make the game more accessible.

To learn more about TGA Project Muni and how municipal facilities can benefit from this new, strategic initiative, please contact Kelly Kilgo, Managing Director of Outreach/TGA Foundation, by email at kkilgo@txga.org or by phone at (214) 468-8942.

NOMINATIONS CLOSE FEB. 21 FOR TEXAS GOLF HOF CLASS OF 2024

Nominations for the 2024 Class of the Texas Golf Hall of Fame opened on Jan. 10. The public is urged to nominate qualified individuals before the deadline on Feb. 21.

Following the nomination deadline, the list of nominees will be screened by the induction nominating committee to be sure they meet the eligibility requirements of the specific category for which they were nominated. There shall be no more than eight total nominees per category per induction year. Not all public nominations are guaranteed a place on the official ballot.

Nominations for individuals and courses can be made in six categories: Amateur Player, Professional Player, Golf Professional/Teacher, Lifetime Achievement, Professional Service, and Texas Registry of Historic Golf Courses.

The 2024 Class will be announced in May and formally inducted this October in Houston. Tickets to the fall induction ceremony will be made available to the public as details become finalized.

For more information about the nomination process, categories and requirements for nomination and online nomination form, click here.

2024 WHSTM QUICK REFERENCE PLACEMAT FOR GOLF CLUB ADMINISTRATORS

The USGA and The R&A announced key changes to the World Handicap System (WHS) that will go into effect within the United States on January 16, 2024. The 2024 WHS Quick Reference Placemat resource is designed specifically for your staff and Handicap Committee to help address the questions you will most likely receive from your members and guests.

Among the topics covered in the placemat include new treatment of 9-hole scores, new treatment for holes not played, and scores made at shorter length courses. There is also a date-specific section for January 16 considerations that covers any player(s) with an uncombined 9-hole score in their scoring record as of January 16, and for clubs conducting a competition on January 16.

The USGA Handicap Committee Guide is now included within the digital version of the Rules of Handicapping (Section 6), which will be updated on January 16 to reflect the 2024 changes.

TEXAS LEAGUE PLAY: TEAM GOLF EXCITEMENT FOR TGA MEMBER CLUBS

Texas League Play was created in 2006 to provide an opportunity for TGA Member Clubs to play against each other in a team match-play format. Held during the springtime, these organized interclub matches, which utilize GHIN® handicaps, promote friendly competition and camaraderie in a fun atmosphere.

Eligibility in Texas League Play is open to all Member Clubs, both public and private, that own/ operate at least one 18-hole regulation length golf course with a current and valid USGA Course/ Slope Rating. To make scheduling easier and to reduce travel time, regional conferences are established anywhere in the state where there are four Member Clubs who are interested in competing against each other in a six-match regular season.

The team roster is open to male amateur golfers aged 21 and older that are full dues paying members of the club and maintain an active GHIN handicap. PGA Professionals who are full-time employees of the club are also encouraged to participate. Eight players are needed for each match, but there is no limit to how many players a club can have on its team roster.

A team match consists of four (4), four-ball matches: one (1) scratch and three (3) by handicap indexes arranged from low to high. Within each of the four-ball matches that make up one team match, there is one point awarded for winning the front nine, one for the back nine and one for the overall 18-hole match. A total of 12 points are available within each team match; at least 6.5 points are needed for a team victory.

Following the regular season, which runs from March 6-May 12, regional conference winners earn a spot to compete for the statewide title in the Championship Playoffs, a thrilling single-elimination bracket tournament to be held May 30-June 2 at Hyatt Hill Country Golf Club in San Antonio.

MAKE GOLF YOUR THING UNVEILS IMPACT ON ADVANCING INCLUSIVITY

Make Golf Your Thing, the collaborative movement reflecting the industry’s commitment to making the sport more diverse and welcoming, has released an update as it prepares to enter its fourth year. Highlights include investment of more than $1.8 million in 237 grassroots programs and steady growth in career and business opportunities for diverse candidates.

Led by PGA of America, PGA TOUR, LPGA and USGA and with financial support and participation from some of the leading corporations in golf, Make Golf Your Thing began taking shape in late 2020. Unlike anything done before in any sport, the collaborative, breakthrough movement is uniting allies across golf in support of a more inclusive game and industry, proactively welcoming people from historically underrepresented communities in the sport to make golf their game, their career, and their business.

Through Make Golf Your Game, players of all backgrounds, identities and abilities are encouraged to make golf their own. To date, the movement has invested in more than 155 unique organizations that are dedicated to increasing participation among people of color, women, LGBTQ+ individuals, Veterans, and those with disabilities. Approximately 88 percent of adults and children reached through these programs are ethnically diverse, while 51 percent are female, and 80 percent are under the age of 18. Fifteen organizations have received the maximum grant possible, reporting an average of 21 percent growth in participants since 2021.

To read more about the Make Golf Your Thing impact update, click here.