Page 40 - GBC summer ENG 2023

While the official rules hold an important place on the golf course, they are not necessary for an introductory program. The same reasoning applies to golf lessons. For example, teaching the golf swing is an essential part of a new golfer’s progression. Welcome to Golf is step 1, a pre-lessons program that helps golfers feel comfortable at and around the course. This initial experience paves the way for step 2, taking lessons and developing on-course skills.
Coordinating the on-course portion of the walkthrough can be done in several ways. We recommend that the host plays a hole and demonstrates situations worth reviewing while the group follows and observes. The importance of the program is ensuring that new golfers gain critical knowledge, enabling them to feel confident during future visits. The sense of belonging is crucial for new golfers, so providing the information and guidance as soon as they arrive at your course is essential.
The open house, including both the off and on course portions of the walkthrough, is recommended to last between 30-60 minutes.
WELCOME TO GOLF’S 3 KEYS TO SUCCESS
The objective of Welcome to Golf is to equip new adult golfers with the knowledge and understanding they need to feel confident and empowered to return and play. To maximize the likelihood of achieving this goal, there are 3 key factors:
1. Comfort: New golfers must feel comfortable and accepted at the course to want to return. It is essential to recognize that participants of Welcome to Golf might not feel comfortable and accepted upon arrival, hence their
participation in the program. Every participating course is responsible for creating an atmosphere that will dispel the feelings of intimidation and anxiety, encouraging these golfers to return.
2. Focus on Fun: Participants need to experience a memorable moment that highlights the enjoyment possible at the golf course. An interactive component to the event is recommended to achieve that enjoyment. Playing the golf course isn’t necessarily required for that interaction; it could be as simple as blocking off a portion of the driving range to hit balls or providing an opportunity to chip and putt in the practice area. It could even be an opportunity to socialize on the patio. Show the new golfers what makes your facility likeable to golfers that currently play at your course.
3. Communicate: Effective communi- cation to new golfers is two-fold. First, participants should feel encouraged to ask questions throughout the open house walkthrough. Second, it is vital to follow up with all participants after the open house. A follow up email or call provides an ideal opportunity to promote a lessons package, beginner league or a
social event happening at your facility. It’s important to be creative and continue the process of developing new golfers into loyal members of the golf community. According to a 2021 NGF report, only 13% of new golfers were contacted by the facility where they were introduced to the game. Welcome to Golf aims to significantly increase this statistic.
REGISTER TODAY
The question of “How do we attract more people into the game and retain them?” cannot be solved with a single solution. The entire industry must play its part in allocating resources to create accessible pathways for everyone interestedingolf.Golfcourseowners play a crucial role in providing a welcomingenvironmentthatfosters acceptance, comfort and confidence at their facilities.
Every golfer remembers where they played their first round of golf. This is an opportunity to create that positive first experience and leave that lasting impression on a new group of golfers.
Register as a Welcome to Golf facility today at www.ngcoa.ca or call Jordan Vizena at 1-866-626-4262 extension 32.
Golf Business Canada
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