This is part 6 of a series of articles written by the GOLF 20/20 Ambassadors highlighting ways for the golf industry to engage with 18 to 34-year-olds and promote the game to millennial golfers. Read the rest of the series.
1. College? And what happens next?
Many young adults used to play a lot of golf a juniors – for fun or competition. The most important question we should ask ourselves is why they don’t play after graduation? Probably because of many new responsibilities and life's circumstances – moving to the city or losing contact with their friends from college. Nevertheless, there is a way to get former golfers back in the game!
An online system which will allow folks to compete with each other wil keep young adult golfers engaged with the sport. Playing partners will have the ability to compete and see each others scores regardless of the distance that separates them. This would also be more suitable to their schedules as they could play at different times.
2. Develop yourself – all the time! Combine golf and work.
Be honest with yourself. You have to learn through your whole life. There is no end point if you’d want to continue achieving. But why not combine work with playing golf?
Many work events require travel, but if you manage your time efficiently, you can add a few hours of networking to every business trip. The next time you travel, make sure you bring the clubs!
3. Make space for young families at the golf course.
#golfis perfect opportunity to unite generations! Larger practice greens in public can bring a lot of fun to every Family! #golfforeveryone
— EGP St Andrews (@EGPStAndrews) July 25, 2014
There are a lot of important events that take place in life between the ages of 18 and 34. People are getting married, having children, starting their first job and so on. People in the golf industry have to understand that there should be some focus dedicated to "young families."
Millennial golfers have a limited amount of disposable income which can be spend for leisure – that’s why introducing discounts may be a beneficial factor to see more young faces on the golf course. Help from their golf clubs will be appreciate as well. Making accommodations for their children – for example a kids corner, junior tees and space for parents to sit together with their kids while not disturbing players on the course.
Providing a more welcome environment for young parents will reduce their stress levels and encourage them to bring their families to the golf course rather than leave the kids at home with a babysitter.
4. Introduce beginner days and cherish volunteering!
Give a warm welcome to the begginers on the course! Explain the rules and enjoy game togheter! #GOLFIS
— EGP St Andrews (@EGPStAndrews) July 16, 2014
If we want to convert and retain new golfers, it's important to pay a lot of attention to them. Every one of us remembers our first time playing; the stress of anther group approaching behind us while we were struggling with the shoots or just a lack of general knowledge for golf etiquette. Scheduling bigger gaps between tee times and having more experienced golfers available to help coach and explain the game to new players would have a positive impact on the development of a new golfer network at any club.
By: Dominika Antoniszczak
Twitter: @EGPStAndrews
Instagram: EGPSTANDREWS
