Want to improve your golf game? Join a league!

I believe golf leagues are the best way for beginners and all golfers to improve their golf game because it commits an individual to play at least once a week, instead of once a month or even less often. It also challenges them to practice more because they want to play their best on league night. Are their additional benefits of joining a league? Of course. Check these out from Matthew Woods, a Golf Blogger.

The benefits of golf leagues are many. Socially, leagues are a wonderful way to meet new people and make friends—many remain lifelong friends. Networking is another advantage, as golf leagues allow you the opportunity to build relationships that can benefit you both on and off the course. Playing in a golf league is simply fun, providing pleasure and enjoyment with memories that can last a lifetime. Mentally, golf improves confidence, self-esteem, and helps prevent anxiety and dementia. From a health perspective, walking a golf course is one of the healthiest activities to extend longevity.

There are different types of leagues you can join to match your own unique interests. Men’s Leagues are typically open to golfers of all skill levels, usually by handicap, and divided into divisions based on ability. Women’s Leagues are similar and typically meet once or twice a week. Mixed Leagues are open to golfers of all genders and can be a great way for men and women to meet and play golf together. Senior Male or Female Leagues are usually open to golfers 55 years of age or older and divided by handicap, providing a great way for seniors to stay active and socialize. Corporate Leagues are organized by businesses for their employees to enjoy some friendly competition. Tournament Leagues are usually organized around a series of tournaments where players earn points based on their finish in competitions, making them ideal for those with higher ambitions. Finally, Social Leagues are strictly for people whose main objective is to have fun and meet new people—and there’s nothing wrong with that.

Finding a golf league is not difficult. You can go to the Pro Shop of your local public golf course and ask about their leagues. You might also find information in local newspapers and golf magazines, as well as advertisements. Searching online directories for location, type of league, and other criteria can also help, along with using social media to find leagues that promote themselves. Don’t forget to ask your friends, family, and other golfers if they need new members.

If you join a league, there are several tips to make the most of the experience. Practice regularly to improve your game—it will improve your scores and help your team win. Be prepared to play in different conditions, including rain, wind, and cold weather. Have fun, try to relax, and don’t take yourself too seriously. Enjoy the journey. Your golf skills will improve dramatically faster if you take a series of lessons from a CNY PGA Golf Professional. I took the liberty of adding a few here and there to compliment Matthew’s list.

Perry Noun is the former executive director of the Northeastern NY PGA as well as a competitive amateur golfer and winner of the New York State Super Senior Amateur Championship. Perry Noun can be heard on “Tee Time With The Pro-noun” on... News Radio 570 WSYR and 106.9FM.