More than a Sport!
Karen and Jay celebrate the game of golf – especially the opportunity it provides for spending time with others, in a very pleasant setting – and building relationships.
Golf is a sport. But it is much more than that. It’s really a game that offers the opportunity for social interaction. For building relationships. For simply getting out of the house, the office, the indoors environment. Taking a great excursion through the open fairways, with an occasional walk in the woods – seeing nature – streams, a couple ponds, being with the birds and squirrels. Importantly, a moment to escape the digital leash – to disconnect – not being tied to the phone or the laptop – and put quite simply – having the opportunity to enjoy good company with one another. Build relationships and have genuine human interaction – so often missing in the world we live in.
I find that one of the most appealing aspects of golf for me is its ability to draw people away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. A round typically takes several hours, providing a dedicated block of time to unwind and reconnect. The slower pace allows for the appreciation of the surroundings—a beautiful sunrise, the vibrant colors of nature, or the tranquility of a well-manicured course. These moments of respite from a hectic schedule not only enhance the enjoyment of the game but also contribute to mental and emotional well-being. Over the course of a round, you feel like you really connect with the other folks you’re playing with. Getting to know them on a much deeper level.
And, you know, it’s also a very democratized game – in the sense that it really doesn’t matter how good or how bad you play, or how old you are - you can all go out together as a foursome (or sometimes more) and play at whatever level – and have fun nonetheless. Whether it's a friendly round with family members, a casual outing with colleagues, or a charity event that brings the community together, the sport encourages interaction among diverse groups of different ages, abilities, etc. The low-pressure environment allows individuals to share their experiences, celebrate each other's successes, and support one another in their challenges. This sense of community fosters a spirit of friendship and unity that is both enriching and memorable.
Most important, golf teaches valuable life skills that extend beyond the course. Patience, perseverance, and mutual respect are just a few of the qualities that you can develop through your experiences in the game. At the same time, you can learn a lot about a person by how they behave on the golf course. Are they easy going, do they take themselves too seriously, do they have a temper? Are they gracious and compliment their fellow players, do they commiserate with them when things go badly? How do they treat the maintenance workers and the folks who run the pro shop?
Golf’s lessons translate to everyday life, enhancing relationships not only on the golf course but in the broader context of personal and professional interactions. Ultimately, golf is more than a sport; it’s a celebration of connection and friendship, offering a refreshing escape from the demands of daily life while enriching the bonds we share with others.
So, I urge you to get out there – before the summer passes you by – and enjoy some great time with friends out on the course!
Golf's Rebirth: A Modern Social Movement Inspired by the Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped many aspects of daily life, and the world of golf has been no exception. Amidst lockdowns and social distancing mandates, golf has experienced an unexpected renaissance. The sport’s inherent characteristics, such as wide-open spaces and the ability to maintain physical distance, have made it an attractive activity for individuals seeking both recreation and social connection. According to an article on Golf Course Architecture, the surge in golf's popularity during the pandemic is not merely a blip but a significant boom. This resurgence is reminiscent of the way social movements, like the upcoming American Sunshine Movement, seek to bring people together and foster community connections.
Before the pandemic, golf faced a decline in participation, particularly among younger generations. However, the need for safe, outdoor activities led many to rediscover the joys of the game. Courses that had been struggling with dwindling memberships and financial pressures suddenly saw a rise in tee times and new memberships. This revival has been fueled not just by seasoned golfers returning to the greens but also by a new wave of enthusiasts looking for a way to escape the confines of their homes. Much like the essence of the American Sunshine Movement, golf’s resurgence underscores the human need for social interaction and community, even in times of crisis.
The parallels between golf’s rebirth and the goals of the American Sunshine Movement are striking. Both aim to bring people together, creating a sense of belonging and shared purpose. Golf provides a platform for individuals to connect in a socially distanced world, offering physical, mental, and emotional benefits. Similarly, the American Sunshine Movement aspires to create a nationwide network of support, encouraging social engagement and mutual support. By fostering these connections, both golf and the movement help combat the isolation and loneliness exacerbated by the pandemic.
As golf courses across the country continue to welcome new players, the sport’s community-building potential becomes even more apparent. Golf tournaments, charity events, and casual rounds provide opportunities for individuals to meet, bond, and form lasting relationships. This sense of community mirrors the objectives of the American Sunshine Movement, which aims to unite people through shared experiences and collective action. By participating in golf, individuals are not only improving their physical health but also contributing to a broader social fabric.
The resurgence of golf during the COVID-19 pandemic highlights the timeless appeal of social connection and outdoor recreation. This revival serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of community, echoing the goals of the American Sunshine Movement which can be found at www.americansunshinemovement.org . As we look to the future, both golf and the movement offer valuable lessons in resilience, adaptability, and the enduring human spirit. Through shared experiences and a commitment to bringing people together, we can create a more connected and supportive society.
Breaking the Ice: Connecting Through Life and Sports
Contributed by Jon Morton, of the American Sunshine Movement.
At a networking event several years ago, I recall someone approaching me and asking, “How much does a polar bear weigh?” To which I replied, “I don’t know.” This person reached out his hand for a shake and responded, “Just enough to break the ice.” And so, it went. We connected, and I learned an important lesson about life: it doesn’t have to be something elaborate or detailed when it comes to connecting with another person. Even a silly “dad joke” can do the trick.
The same concept is true when wanting to connect people to a great cause or a sport. When I was a teenager, I went to the ski area where my sister was downhill skiing, and one of my friends was there. He talked me into trying it out. He claimed that it was a lot easier than it looked and said it was his first time going. It turns out that he meant it was his first time that day, but he had been skiing for several years. I had already done a few runs down the hill before I realized that he wasn’t the newbie I had assumed. It didn’t matter. By that point, I was really glad that I had taken the initiative to try it out, and I have gone many more times over the years since then.
Golf is a game that has been making a resurgence with a new generation lately, and the ice breaker is often a tournament. I personally love playing golf. Watching it on TV was quite boring to me when I was younger, and frankly, it still is. "Happy Gilmore," played by NH native Adam Sandler, while certainly entertaining, was not your typical golf. That movie no doubt played a role in getting young people interested in golf when it came out in 1996 (the same year that Tiger Woods burst onto the PGA scene) and in the years since. It will be interesting to see how its sequel, nearly 30 years later, will be received when it comes out early next year. An exact date hasn’t been announced, but it’s likely to reach a whole new audience and add to what tournaments are doing in bringing people into the sport.
Add to that the ubiquitous rise of video games as well as the new twist to the game, called Bucket Golf, that came out in 2016. These new ways of getting the word out about a game that originated hundreds of years ago are fascinating. The exact origin of the game is hotly debated, with one version dating back to the year 1297. There are interesting, albeit competing, stories of how the game came to be. Either way, what started as a basic sport of sticks, stones, and holes in the ground has grown to businesses solely based on indoor simulators or automated ball teeing driving ranges. There is even a stand-up golf cart for one that looks like a cross between an oversized skateboard and a Segway.
The most recent resurgence of golf happened in 2020, in large part due to COVID. The increase in players that year was the greatest in 17 years. Along with providing valuable physical, mental, and emotional benefits for participants, coupled with providing green spaces to benefit the planet, golf isn’t just more popular than ever; it’s arguably more important than ever. With one in seven Americans hitting the links at least once in the past year, Sandler’s sequel is coming out at a great time. It could certainly add to the growth in interest in a sport that brings people of every background together.
The most recent movie, and one of the highest-rated about the game, is based on a true story. "The Phantom of the Open," released in 2022, is about far more than the British Open golf championship. It’s about optimism and going after your dreams. When it really comes down to it, whether we are talking about fundraising tournaments or a way for people to talk business outside of the office, there is so much more to golf than just hitting the little white ball across acres of manicured turf. Long live the greatest game ever played.
Positive Profile of the Week - "Phil Pleat: Championing Golf with Passion, Excellence, and Community Spirit"
This week we are delighted to highlight an inspirational New Hampshire athlete and leader in the community - Phil Pleat.
Phil is a renowned golfer who has left an indelible mark on the sport with his impressive record and unwavering passion. His journey in golf is characterized by a series of significant achievements, showcasing both his skill and dedication to the game.
Hailing from Nashua, New Hampshire, Pleat has deep roots in the state's golfing history. His illustrious career includes being a three-time winner of the New Hampshire Amateur Championship and a record six-time winner of the New Hampshire Senior Championship. Additionally, Pleat's outstanding performance earned him induction into the New Hampshire Golf Hall of Fame in 2018, recognizing his significant contributions to the sport at both the state and national levels. His dedication to golf extends beyond playing, as he has also served as a mentor and role model for aspiring golfers in New Hampshire and beyond.
Phil Pleat's golfing career is highlighted by numerous victories and accolades. He has consistently demonstrated exceptional talent, which has earned him a reputation as one of the top amateur golfers. Notably, Pleat has won numerous golf events, showcasing his dominance at the state level. His victories in this prestigious tournament have cemented his status as a formidable competitor in the golfing community.
Beyond his individual accomplishments, Pleat's love for the game is evident in his continuous pursuit of excellence. He embodies the spirit of golf, not just as a sport but as a lifelong passion. Pleat's dedication to honing his skills and competing at a high level is a testament to his deep-seated love for golf. His enthusiasm for the game is contagious, inspiring others to take up golf and strive for greatness.
Phil Pleat is not only a skilled golfer but also a leader within the golfing community. He understands the importance of giving back and promoting the sport he loves. Pleat has been instrumental in mentoring young golfers, offering guidance and support to help them develop their skills and achieve their potential. His leadership extends beyond the golf course, as he actively participates in initiatives aimed at growing the sport and making it accessible to a broader audience.
One of Pleat's most significant contributions to golf is his ability to bring people together. He recognizes that golf is more than just a competitive sport; it's a means of fostering community and building relationships. Pleat has organized and participated in numerous charity golf events, using the sport as a platform to raise funds and awareness for various causes. His efforts have not only benefited those in need but have also strengthened the sense of camaraderie within the golfing community.
For his leadership, his accomplishments and his great devotion to the community, we thank Phil for all he has done and continues to do!
Quote of the Week: Golf – Bringing People Together
"Golf brings people together. The friendships I built over the years while playing are priceless." – Jack Nicklaus
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