As the calendar turns from February to March and the snow fades away to reveal (mostly) sunny skies, golfers are ready to trade in their snow shovels for six irons. Sure, some diehards may have still been playing during the winter months, aggressively watching the weather forecast and poaching serviceable days for a quick round. Some may have even played with snow still on the ground (it does happen, and might I recommend colored golf balls if you ever attempt it.) For most of us, though, the start of golf season seems long overdue.
Golf is one of the few major sports that can be played and enjoyed whether the player is 5, 35, or 95 years old. Athleticism and perfect health isn’t even a firm requirement – though it certainly helps. In fact, the country club next to where I grew up featured an elderly gentleman who played well into his golden years despite a serious health condition that robbed him of both his legs (he played with the assistance of a special custom-built golf cart).
While it is one of the more difficult sports to pick up despite that approachability, golf can appeal to any type of player. The competitive athlete has plenty of opportunities to test his mettle in tournaments, leagues, or even just a healthy battle against a personal record. The fun-seeker can grab a few buddies (and perhaps a few brews) to play a round or two. Golf even lends itself to the more introverted types, who can flee the hustle and bustle of daily life and grab their clubs and enjoy the peace and quiet of the natural world around them.
Golf’s general accessibility is also key in the business world. Inviting a client (or potential client) out for a round of golf is a widely-used move, as it allows businessmen and women to discuss issues, deals, and ideas outside of the confines of a stuffy office conference room. Golf is also an excellent way to learn about an individual. The sport’s self-policing nature, challenging difficulty, and somewhat-relaxed environment can allow a person’s true self to shine through – for better or worse.
Those who are searching for marketing opportunities can also benefit greatly from the sport, as golf has a wealth of equipment that can be branded with a company logo, from sport-specific items like golf balls to more widely-usable gear like custom hats and shirts. Outings for companies and clients are an easy way to distribute that branded merchandise while enjoying a day of food and fun. Numerous vendors and businesses in the Pittsburgh area already use outings as a way to increase awareness for their brand and distribute their merchandise as favors for attendees or prizes for the more competitive player.
Golf’s accessibility and flexibility can provide an individual or business with a wonderful way to connect with other people in a less-formal and more fun-based environment, whether by use of an outing or event, or just a casual round with a few people. The fact that it’s a challenging endeavor that can be enjoyed for a lifetime is just a bonus.
