Golf courses in the north are currently recruiting new members. If you golf often, it might be beneficial to join a club for the following reasons.
Golfers in the north are counting the days until spring and that first tee-off of the golf season. If you are an avid golfer and you have not yet become a member of a golf club, you might want to reconsider. The cost for membership and the benefits for different clubs vary. Nonetheless, here are some possible/common benefits of membership:
- Unlimited green fees and unlimited use or discounts on cart fees.
- Unlimited or discounted rates on practice balls.
- "Member Only” tee times.
- Discounts on guest green fees.
- Use of club facilities like the clubhouse, locker room and practice facilities.
- Discounts on pro-shop merchandise.
- Free use or discounts on use of facilities for events like weddings, family reunions, etc.
- “Member Only” tournaments and events.
Now is the time to begin researching and exploring golf memberships. In February/early March, many northern golf courses offer incentives for early season memberships. But before deciding on a club, you should consider the following:
- Location - Remember the location of the club will be a huge factor in determining how often you play. For example, if you like to play a round before work, you'll surely want to choose a club that's either close to home or near your place of work.
- Type of Club - Some clubs are private (country clubs), some semi-private and some open/public. Membership to a private club will cost lots more than that of a public course, and the benefits will also be quite different. Determining what type of club you're interested in is a great place to start.
- Perks/Benefits - Make sure you are clear on what all your membership includes. For example, some memberships include cart use while others don't. When comparing clubs, you'll want to take this into account. Having to pay for a cart each time can make a substantial financial difference.
- The Course/Difficulty- Some questions to ponder include: the size of the course, number of holes, teeing options/positions and landscaping. You'll also want to be careful to choose a course that fits your skill level. The course should be a little challenging, but not so much that you'll get frustrated and/or slow up other club players.
- Walk/Cart - Some people prefer to walk the course while others prefer to ride in a cart. Again, you'll need to look for a course that meets your personal needs.
Some other things to consider include: length of season/operating hours, methods/procedures for insect/pest control and amenities like on-site restaurants, swimming pools, etc. When everything else has been considered, remember to choose a club with a friendly staff and atmosphere. You're going to spend a lot of time at the club so you'll want to be sure that you feel welcome and comfortable there. Have a great golf season!
