Let's Bring 'Em In

     In order to grow the game of golf, we have to bring in new golfers.  It is just that simple. But what is a "new" golfer. I am not talking about those who have tried the game and left it for any of a thousands reasons. A new golfer is someone who has never touched a club and wants to start playing our wonderful game.  Bringing those who have left the game back is certainly important, but we need the new blood of those who have never played. How do we get bring them out to learn and enjoy the game.
     I think the first way we do that is to invite them.  Why not ask them out to the course for lunch or some other very simple event.  Let them get surrounded by the atmosphere of the course.  This is very important because as we golfers know, golf is more than just the game itself. The social aspect of the game is what brings many players to it, not only during the round but before and after it as well.
     We must welcome "new" people to the game. What is your attitude toward a "new" golfer.  Is your attitude "Oh crap, a new golfer. Just what we need, a newbie that is going to hold up play." Do your facial expressions and attitude send out vibes to the new golfer of "This is my territory and you are invading it"? How would you feel if you went to a place where it seemed you were not welcomed. Would you come back?  I don't think so.
     How about a smile, warm handshake and a "Welcome to the course, I am glad you are here" to the new golfer. Let's keep in mind that this person is keeping our game alive.  We should be very encouraging and accepting, not turn them away because they are invading our sanctuary. They are the future of the game. To bring it down to to the player level, if they are playing at your course they are helping to keep your course open.  Is that simple enough?
    Why not bend over backward to make the new golfer comfortable. We can start by holding events that encourage the new golfer such as new golfer scrambles, where new golfers are pared with experienced golfers in a scramble format. That way, you remove the angst that they have when they are on the course. What about setting up a "mentor golfer"program where an experienced golfer pairs up with a new golfer for a round or two. Rules can be modified to make the experience more enjoyable for both. Score would not be an issue, in fact why keep score.  Make sure that both golfers know that this is a learning experience and not a competitive one.
    Let's get more people into the game of golf. It may be as simple as a one on one invitation.

I want to welcome you new golfer to the first tee, the beginning of a great new relationship with the greatest game.