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Special Reports

NGF’s reports and publications are free to members, providing data and intel to make better-informed decisions. Browse our catalog, from annual reports on participation and golf course supply to more focused reports on key golfer segments and business categories.

Don’t see what you’re looking for? Just ask. We’ve learned a lot in our 80-year history and chances are we have insights that will help. 

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2020 Golf Industry Report

Golf Industry Report

The Golf Industry Report compiles many of the…

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Rounds Played Summary

The National Rounds Played Summary provides an overview…

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Golf Instruction Report

An inside look at the $1 billion golf…

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Off-Course Golf Specialty Retail

NGF’s annual update on off-course golf retail store…

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Summary of Golf Participation in the U.S.

This one-page summary of consumer engagement in golf…

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Golf Participation in the U.S.

The NGF has surveyed Americans regarding golf participation…

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Summary of Golf Facilities in the U.S.

This one-page summary includes a look at golf…

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Golf Facilities in the U.S.

This comprehensive report provides an overview of golf…

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NGF Reads

Saved From the Chopping Block

By Erik Matuszewski | March 11, 2021

In an era when golf course closures far outweigh new openings – a market correction that’s the result of oversupply in the industry coupled with a strong demand for real estate — here’s a look at facilities that have escaped the chopping block. From the posh Wynn Golf Club on the Las Vegas Strip to a 9-hole layout in Nebraska that costs just $9 to walk on weekdays.

When Nine is Fine

By National Golf Foundation | March 10, 2021

Nine-hole courses are golf’s sandlots, a breeding ground for future golfers and a farm team of sorts for future private-club membership rolls. They often serve as the foundation for learning the game, as well as its customs and etiquette.

Golf Under the Lights

By National Golf Foundation | March 10, 2021

NGF research shows that 50% of golfers express some interest in playing golf at night. Could a lighted course be an option for some operators?

A BIG Drop in Golf Course Closures

By Joseph Beditz | February 25, 2021

There was a 31% decline in 18HEQ course closures in 2020, the largest drop on record. Could golf be approaching the end of its 15-year market correction?

Who Wants In?

By Joseph Beditz | February 11, 2021

The flood of new faces on U.S. golf courses in 2020 was noteworthy, even if some gains were offset. Who were these new people? And who wanted “in” last year?

Golf’s KPIs for 2020

By Joseph Beditz | January 28, 2021

After the coronavirus struck in 2020, spring shutdowns gave way to an unprecedented summer and fall in terms of play, golfer introductions and reintroductions, and robust, late-season spending.

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NGF Research Snapshot: Family Golf

By National Golf Foundation | January 13, 2020

Almost two-thirds of golfers say they played a round of golf with a family member last year.

Nine New Golf Courses from 2019

By National Golf Foundation | December 12, 2019

While investment in the U.S. golf market is focused almost entirely on golf course renovations and restorations, a limited number of new courses are being built. Here’s a closer look at some layouts that debuted in 2019.

How A Montana Muni Created a Year-Round Draw

By Ed Getherall | December 1, 2019

An obstacle turned into an opportunity for this Montana municipal course, which re-imagined its clubhouse to create year-round revenue and engage the local community.

Here’s Why the NFL’s Carolina Panthers Bought a Golf Course

By National Golf Foundation | November 13, 2019

The Carolina Panthers have an agreement to buy a public golf course near the new headquarters they’re planning in Rock Hill, South Carolina. The NFL team envisions the 1997 Hale Irwin design not as just a team amenity, but an opportunity to create stronger ties with the local community.

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