As I reflect on nearly three decades working in the golf industry, including over 15 years as an award-winning PGA Professional, I’m reminded of my deep love and passion for this game and the business surrounding it. My journey with golf began at the tender age of 5, and it didn’t take long for me to realize that this sport would become a lifelong pursuit. There’s something about the feeling of a well-struck shot; the camaraderie forged on the course, and the eternal quest for improvement that hooks many of us from an early age. For me, it was an undeniable love affair.

The Good

To this day, the game of golf continues to captivate me with its beautiful qualities. Firstly, golf is a game for all ages and abilities. It offers young children, their parents, and even grandparents an opportunity to play and compete together, fostering family bonds that last a lifetime. Beyond the family realm, golf serves as a platform for building friendships and networking in a manner unlike any other sport. Many lifelong friendships have been formed through the game, and countless business deals have been struck on the fairways and greens.

The mental and physical benefits of golf are equally compelling. The game requires concentration, strategy, and patience, all translating to valuable life skills. On the physical side, walking 18 holes provides a great workout, and even when using a cart, the exercise from swinging and walking helps maintain fitness levels. Furthermore, the serene beauty of golf courses—often meticulously crafted to harmonize with nature—offers players a unique form of escapism and relaxation.

From a professional standpoint, golf is a cornerstone of tourism and economic activity in many regions. Prestigious events like the Masters, U.S. Open, and PGA Championship not only bring attention and prestige but also generate significant revenue for local economies. As a PGA Professional, I’ve had the honor of contributing to many charity events over the years and witnessing their positive impact on communities firsthand.

The Bad

Yet, while there is much to celebrate, the golf industry is not without its flaws and criticisms. One primary critique is the accessibility of the game. Despite efforts to make golf more inclusive, it remains a sport often perceived as exclusive and expensive. Membership fees, equipment costs, and green fees can be prohibitive for many, limiting the diversity of those who participate. This is an area where we, as industry professionals, must continue to work tirelessly to create programs and opportunities to make the game more accessible to all.

Another concern is the environmental impact. Golf courses are sometimes criticized for their water usage and maintenance practices, which may not always be environmentally friendly. Our industry must continually seek and adopt sustainable practices to minimize our ecological footprint. Many courses have made commendable strides in this area, but there is always room for improvement.

Then there is the issue of slow play, which can deter potential new golfers from taking up the game and frustrate existing enthusiasts. Promoting faster play initiatives and educating golfers on maintaining pace is essential for enhancing the overall golfing experience.

The Ugly

Sometimes, the most glaring issue can be the culture within the game itself. Golf has a long history, and with that comes traditionalism, which isn’t always welcoming to newcomers. Stories of exclusion based on race, gender, and socio-economic status still linger. While significant progress has been made, it’s crucial that we remain vigilant and actively work towards a culture of inclusivity and respect.

Why Play Golf?

Despite these challenges, the reasons to play golf far outweigh the negatives. It’s a sport that teaches respect, discipline, and perseverance. It’s a game that bridges generations and fosters community. Most importantly, golf is fun and fulfilling. For those considering taking up the game, I urge you to do so; you will find a sport rich in history, joy, and life lessons.

To my fellow brothers and sisters in golf: let’s continue championing the good, addressing the bad, and confronting the ugly. By doing so, we can ensure that golf remains a beloved, accessible, and respected sport for generations to come. Let’s be the change-makers who embrace inclusivity, sustainability, and speed while maintaining the integrity and spirit of this beautiful game we all love. Together, we can make golf exemplary of the best in sportsmanship and community.

Editor’s note: “My Take” will be an ongoing weekly series where Brendon shares his thoughts and opinions on various aspects of the game and industry. These are Brendon’s opinions and do not necessarily reflect those of GolfWRX, its staff, and its affiliates.