Why Play Golf?

People have busy lives, so why do they choose to invest precious time playing golf? La Grande Mare’s Golf Performance, Director Susan Shapcott, PhD, PGA, has a pretty good explanation. Susan shared her insights into why people take up the sport, the critical role it often plays in their lives, and the value of social capital.

Like most golf instructors, I work with players of varying abilities, but the majority play recreationally. When I meet new players, I always ask them to identify their motivation for learning - whether they want to play competitively, develop a technically correct swing, or improve their fitness. The common theme I’ve noted among most new golfers is that their motivation to play golf is social - and my anecdotal findings are supported by research.

The joy of improvement

To be clear, recreational golfers do want to improve their games. Not necessarily because they want to be competitive, but by playing a little better, golf is more enjoyable. I’m sure I’m not the only golf instructor who is frequently told, “Just help me not embarrass myself on the golf course!” The truth behind this familiar plea is that golfers want to play well enough to enjoy their time with friends and family when they tee it up.

Understanding the ‘why’ behind recreational golfers’ motivation is important. As an instructor, it is easy to only focus on technical improvements – striving for a faster clubhead speed or a lower launch angle. However, most of the time, recreational golfers want to look beyond the technical side of the game and enjoy the connection and confidence it can offer.

Gaining social capital

That isn’t to say I don’t improve players’ impact positions or swing planes. These are all worthwhile goals and may help golfers find the game more enjoyable. But I try to work gradually on technical changes and not overlook the other things that my students want from golf – social capital.

Academic researchers have amassed a compelling body of work suggesting that social capital, including networks and community, is one of the main reasons people play golf. For example, the new retiree may be looking to develop a network of friends and acquaintances to replace those she left behind with her career. The couple who are new to the area may take group golf lessons in the hope of meeting other like-minded people. Meanwhile, a man in his twenties may turn to golf because his girlfriend and her family are golfers, and by learning, he will be included in family outings.

The social network

Golf’s social capital carries significant weight. Players come to depend on the social networks the game provides. Friends made through golf often become a centerpiece in players’ lives. In marriages, couples credit golf for providing an activity they play together, and it can be the activity that bonds new arrivals to a community, town, or city.

It is therefore unsurprising that golf can also reduce loneliness. When players feel they belong in the game, their general sense of loneliness decreases. This finding confirms what we all know: a day playing golf with friends soothes the soul. When it does, we come back for more.

It is always satisfying to watch golfers improve their techniques and ball flight. But it is equally rewarding to see golf students making friends, having fun, and playing together on the course.  

At La Grande Mare, we are committed to improving your technical skills and keeping an eye on golf’s social value. Look out for golf programming at the Golf Performance Centre that combines both learning and community. Join one of our small-group classes to connect with other Guernsey golfers.

Learn more here: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule/69ac2103/?categories[]=Small%20Group%20Classes