Exclusive NGF Articles and Reports
Golf's Off-Course to On-Course Pathway
Assessing off-course impact on green grass engagement: Member Exclusive
The growth and evolution of off-course forms of golf have led to questions (and opinions) about its impact on the traditional game. Here's a closer look at that divide and the latest research into how green-grass participation, trials and interest are being affected.
Topics: Beginners, Engagement, General Interest, Golfers, Grow The Game
The Largest-Growing Sport in America
How has the increase in off-course golf offerings and access impacted the traditional game? It’s conceivable that neither the pre-pandemic stability nor post-pandemic growth we’ve enjoyed in green grass participation happen without the catalytic effects of the “grassless” game.
Topics: Engagement, Golfers, Off-Course, Off-course Participation, Participation
Midyear Update: New Normal?
After three straight months of meaningful YOY gains in rounds, is it fair to assume we're in the midst of a "new normal" when it comes to golf engagement?
Topics: Consumer Spending, Engagement, Golf Courses, Golfers, Participation
Golf's Ultimate Discretionary Expense?
Golf-related travel and tourism comprises the second largest sector of the U.S. golf economy. It’s also perhaps the ultimate discretionary expense and expression of demand for the game.
Topics: Consumer Spending, Destination Golf, Economy, Golfers, Research
Reviewing Retail: A Mid-Year Look
Is June a turning point for golf retail as Father's Day and the U.S. Open intersect?
U.S. consumers are being more financially cautious, according to McKinsey, so what does this mean for golf retailers?
Topics: Consumer Spending, Economy, Equipment, Golf Balls, Golf Clubs
The Pandemic Surge … More Female Than Male
There has never been greater female representation on the golf course than right now. What's driving the growth and is it sustainable?
Topics: Engagement, Females, Girls, Golfers, Participation
NGF members can click here to access the full report
Amid the Covid-driven changes throughout the golf industry, one of the participation segments seeing the most significant growth is one that makes up just over half the U.S. population.
Topics: Beginners, Engagement, Females, Girls, Golfers
While rounds on a national level are relatively level year-over-year, there's been some significant swings based on geography... and weather.
Topics: Facilities, Facility Operations, Golf Courses, Golfers, Participation
When it comes to online search activity and golf, the first week of April is indeed a time unlike any other. Thank The Masters Tournament (and the unofficial start of the golf season).
Topics: Consumer Spending, Economy, Engagement, General Interest, Golfers
As participation levels have increased in recent years, this particular segment has seen a 36% increase in on-course golfers since the start of the pandemic.
Topics: Engagement, General Interest, Golfers, Grow The Game, Junior Golf
8 Numbers to Know: Participation Segments
Golfer overviews, from beginners to Baby Boomers
In addition to the annual Golf Participation in the U.S. Report, members can access one-page summary reports focused on various participation segments. Here's a sampling: 8 notable golf participation datapoints across various groups.
Topics: Beginners, Engagement, Golfers, Junior Golf, Minority
Participation Rises Again...
Traditional, on-course golf participation in the U.S. was up again in 2022, and off-course gains were even more significant.
Topics: Engagement, General Interest, Golfers, Participation
