It’s about that time of year where I start to get messages like… “I’m coming to Phoenix/Scottsdale, where would you recommend I golf?” The first 12 minutes of this episode is exactly what I would say to you. If you are planning a trip to AZ, this show’s intro is for you!

 

Adam and I are sitting down with Erin Groeneveld, the USGA’s Director of Regional Affairs for the Northeast Sector.

 

Listen in as we get Erin’s take on the recent U.S. Senior Women’s Amateur that took place in Arizona. As a liaison to the men and women in charge of making the tournament a success, Erin sheds light on the integral roles of volunteers, rules officials, and club committees. She talks in particular about the level of commitment, as well as the logistics involved in ensuring a smooth championship run.

 

Erin also unpacks the interesting new rules, including a new rule about using yardage books.

 

We also talk about the intricacies of marking penalty areas and the insightful data collected by the USGA to compare course setups year to year, and how this data is used to improve upon existing course designs for the benefit of player experience.

 

Finally, we unpack the ins-and-outs of hosting golf championships, the stringent process of venue selection, and what the USGA looks for in potential championship hosts. Erin discusses typical membership and budget considerations when it comes to orchestrating a successful tournament.

 

About the USGA:

The United States Golf Association is the United States national association of golf courses, clubs and facilities and the governing body of golf for the U.S. and Mexico. Together with the R&A, the USGA produces and interprets the rules of golf. The USGA also provides a national handicap system for golfers, conducts 14 national championships, including the U.S. Open, U.S. Women's Open and U.S. Senior Open, and tests golf equipment for conformity with regulations.

 

Connect with the Guests:

Erin Groeneveld: Instagram

USGA: Instagram | Website

 

For more information on our 2024 retreats and tournaments, please visit: