A membership worth paying for

Written by Beaux Yenchik, Manager of Media and Communications

It’s the middle of winter. The cold air is forcing us into more layers of clothes than we care to wear. Snow covers the majority of our courses throughout the state. And quite frankly, very little golf is being played at the moment in the Idaho Golf Association, especially with the posting season being closed until mid-March. So, why is this time of year important to golfers around the state? IGA Memberships.

I know, I know. You are probably rolling your eyes, but if you will indulge me for just a few moments of your time, I will tell you why it’s important.

The very first reason, and quite frankly the main reason, why any golfer gets an IGA Membership year after year is to have a Handicap Index - the number many of you believe is just the average of what you shoot over par.

Without turning this into a school lecture, let me quickly explain what a Handicap Index is. According to the World Handicap System, a Handicap Index is “the measure of a player’s demonstrated ability calculated against the SLOPE RATING of a golf course of standard playing difficulty.” So, the number that you see at the top of your semi-monthly newsletter from the IGA is a calculated number that is based on the scores that you post and a number of other things. (If you are curious about what other things go into that calculation, give us a call!)

This number, your Handicap Index, is essential for any golfer that plays competitive golf. It doesn’t matter if you play in IGA Championships or league play at your local course. This number is how golfers compete against each other regardless of skill level or age, and have that competition be on an even playing field.

Your Handicap Index can even be used in a casual match with your friends while you compete for nothing more than bragging rights and/or a few drinks (alcoholic or not) following the round.

So, in my opinion, and yes it’s biased, paying the $40 for your 2023 IGA Membership is worth that amount alone.

Well, you might be shaking your head in agreement that I make a valid point, but I sense that you are maybe ever-so curious as to what else an IGA Membership does for you. Don’t worry. I got you.

This membership, which one can renew or begin on January 1, 2023, gives its members a free subscription to the Pacific Northwest Golfer magazine — a publication put together by our friends at the Pacific Northwest Golf Association. The magazine's exclusive content is not only about what is happening in our region of the country pertaining to golf news, but it includes news specific to Idaho, discounted rates to some of the top golf destinations in our area, the what’s what of golf equipment, and much more.

Another reason to sign up is that you also get exclusive travel benefits through one of our partners, Affinity Travel. Everyone wants to get out and about in different capacities, so why not get killer savings on hotels & resorts, as well as tickets to concerts, movies, sporting events, and more? A benefit that definitely gets under-utilized!

Another key perk that comes with renewing your handicap is the opportunity you get to play in IGA Championship events, headlined by the State Amateur and Women’s State Amateur. (The 2023 venue for these events is by far one of the best public courses in the IGA and definitely a fan favorite…Sorry, guys! The 2023 Tournament Schedule will be released soon!) The caliber of players that fill these fields are the cream of the crop. The championships provide an excellent opportunity for any golfer to showcase their game.

Though there are a few more benefits that haven’t been mentioned, which you can find by visiting our website, the IGA is always looking to grow and offer the best it can for its members. A new benefit that will be offered in 2023, which was introduced in September, is our Ladies Play Days — a series of one-day events that are geared toward our female membership, providing an opportunity for lady golfers to compete in low-key, non-championship events. The first event was our “Ladies 9 and Wine” at Falcon Crest Golf Club in Kuna, ID, which I might add was an absolute hit! And for guys that are feeling left out, the goal is to have member days for men and women by 2024! Stay tuned for those.

With the new year right around the corner, the IGA is working toward releasing even more member benefits throughout the 2023 season. So, if you were hesitant in any manner toward buying or renewing your membership for 2023, I hope I dispelled any hesitation for you.

What are you waiting for?!

Oh, I almost forgot. Use discount code IGA23 for $5 off your registration before February 28, 2023. Didn’t I say I got you?!