Exclusive NGF Articles and Reports

Play in October still trended ahead of recent pre-pandemic years
October 2022 National Rounds Played
Rounds of golf for October 2022 were relatively flat nationally compared to a year ago, with a slight change within the range of typical weather-related fluctuation. 
Topics: Engagement, Facilities, Facility Operations, Golf Courses, Golf Facilities
October 2022 National Rounds Played
Why Do You Play Golf?
We asked golfers what they’re most thankful for when it comes to the traditional game and the results reveal its widespread and generation-spanning appeal. But what is particularly interesting is the differentiation in responses among age groups.
Topics: Engagement, Golfer Surveys, Golfers, Participation, Reasons To Play Golf
Why Do You Play Golf?
New Milestones in Golf’s Evolution
Golf’s evolution has been under way for some years now, long before more recent changes spurred by the pandemic, and two milestones hit this year are significant.
Topics: Consumer Spending, Engagement, Facilities, Golfers, Image Of The Game
New Milestones in Golf’s Evolution
Play sees slight YOY dip after three months of summer increases
September 2022 National Rounds Played
Rounds of golf for September 2022 were down almost 2% compared to the same period a year ago, the first year-over-year decline in national play over the past four months. 
Topics: Engagement, Facilities, Golf Courses, Participation, Research
September 2022 National Rounds Played
A summer resurgence showed 2022's slow start was attributable to poor golf weather rather than a softening in demand
These States Drove the Biggest Summer Rounds Rebound
“We were down significantly in April and not exactly sure what to expect... and then it came roaring back.”
Topics: Engagement, Facilities, Golf Courses, Golf Facilities, Participation
These States Drove the Biggest Summer Rounds Rebound
Strong summer pulls 2022 rounds totals closer to record 2021
August 2022 National Rounds Played
August of 2022 yielded the third straight peak-season month of year-over-year play increases at U.S. golf courses.  
Topics: Engagement, Facilities, Facility Operations, General Interest, Golf Courses
August 2022 National Rounds Played
The Differentiation in Golfer Age Groups
How the unique characteristics of age cohorts groups pertain to consumer engagement
The Differentiation in Golfer Age Groups
The meaningful differences between age cohorts can be of particular relevance and importance for those in the golf business, helping to understand the wants, needs and motivations of customers.
Topics: 18-34, 35-49, 65+, Beginners, Engagement
The Differentiation in Golfer Age Groups
June, July Rebound Suggest Rounds Retention
Play continues to trend ahead of recent pre-pandemic years
June, July Rebound Suggest Rounds Retention
After strong play totals in June and July, YTD play entering August was trailing the record pace of 2021 by only 4%. And there are clear signs of retaining recent gains.
Topics: Engagement, Facilities, Golf Courses, Golf Facilities, Golfers
June, July Rebound Suggest Rounds Retention
Peak season play saw a slight increase for second straight month
July 2022 National Rounds Played
July rounds continued June's momentum, with a slight increase even over the record-setting pace of 2021
Topics: Engagement, Facilities, Golf Courses, Research, Rounds Played
July 2022 National Rounds Played
8 best practices to help your business
Improving the Customer Experience
The past several years have been generally very positive for golf operators, thanks to the "Covid boom." But how should we be improving the customer experience to ensure we're prepared and positioned for the future?
Topics: Economy, Engagement, Facilities, Facility Operations, Golf Courses
Improving the Customer Experience
What is golf's pandemic dividend?
Assessing the Covid Rounds Boost -- Two Years In
With the June 2022 national rounds report out, we now have a full 24 months of supporting data since golfers have been unencumbered by pandemic restrictions. Here's a closer look:
Topics: Engagement, Facilities, Golfers, Participation, Research
Assessing the Covid Rounds Boost -- Two Years In
Mid-Year Update: Rounds Played
After a couple of great years for rounds, some might feel the pandemic ‘bloom’ might be off the rose, so to speak. NGF President & CEO Joe Beditz weighs in.
Topics: Engagement, Facilities, Facility Operations, Golf Courses, Golfers
Mid-Year Update: Rounds Played

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