'Tis the season for golf. With spring in the air, the thought of reuniting with golf buddies is on the horizon. After a long winter, the members of the Chicago District Golf Association are ready to hit the links, renew the annual bonds and take part in the camaraderie of the upcoming season. Golf, often perceived as a solitary sport, possesses an intrinsic ability to foster camaraderie among its players. The nature of the game, the environment in which it is played and the spirit of friendly competition all contribute to building strong social bonds.
I have been a part of many golf groups over the years, some of which I have founded. My first golf group was called Brothers United, where my late buddy Tunnie Glass and I sought to escape the winter season for warm weather and golfing experiences. The first trip was to San Diego, where we paired with a Southern California buddy who shepherded us through the likes of Torrey Pines and Steele Canyon Golf Courses. Thirty-five years later, some 250-plus participants have traveled around the United States, Mexico and Caribbean to play many of the best courses.
Other golf groups in which I have been a iliated with included the Foursome, the Boys, Homeboy Golf Association, the Circle of Friends and Advocate USA. The Advocates’ purpose is to support local youth charities and to promote greater health and wellness in at-risk communities. The group became the foundation for the Advocates Pro Golf Association (APGA) Tour which is promoting inclusion in golf.
When individuals come together to form a golf group, they share a common interest and goal: to enjoy the game and perhaps improve their skills. This shared experience creates a sense of belonging and unity. Members of a golf group support each other, celebrate successes and commiserate over missed shots. This mutual support strengthens relationships and fosters a sense of community.
A typical round of golf can take several hours, providing plenty of opportunities for players to interact. Walking the course between shots, waiting for turns and gathering at the clubhouse after the game are all moments when meaningful conversations can happen. These interactions go beyond the superficial, allowing players to get to know each other on a deeper level, discussing personal interests, professional lives and even life philosophies.
Golf has long been recognized as a valuable networking tool, particularly in the business world. Playing golf with colleagues, clients or potential partners allows for informal interactions that can lead to professional opportunities. The relaxed setting of a golf course enables more genuine conversations, helping to build trust and rapport that are crucial in professional relationships. I have personally found golf groups as an outstanding way to support many great causes including the CDGA Sunshine Programs for youth, disabled and veteran communities that are supported by the CDGA Foundation. We invite your group to help the CDGA Foundation expand access to the game by participating as sponsors, supporters or donors.
Golf groups have a remarkable ability to enhance camaraderie through shared experiences, meaningful interactions and the psychological benefits they provide. The leisurely nature of the game, coupled with the social dynamics it fosters, makes golf an ideal activity for building and strengthening relationships. Whether for personal enjoyment, professional networking or community engagement, the benefits of golf groups extend far beyond the fairways, enriching the lives of those who participate.