By: Caleb Cox, Executive Director
There are many reasons why people play golf. Some enjoy the competitive side of the game, while others appreciate the the opportunity to spend time outdoors on a long walk. For me, golf is a blend of two main themes: competition and friendship. Any round I play can be summed up by focusing on one or both of these elements, and I believe many of you play the game for the same reasons.
While it’s no secret that one of the long-standing missions of the Idaho Golf Association has been to run top-notch championships for the highest-caliber adults and juniors in the state, it may be less known that the IGA seeks to engage, enhance, and grow the greater Idaho golf community through social golf experiences for players of all ages. As we embark on this new year in golf, I’d like to share with you the wide range of social golf events that the IGA offers to it’s members.
For juniors, the IGA’s director of junior golf, Cecilia Baney, will feature two excellent programs this season: Junior Play Days and Golf is FORE Girls. These events, open to players aged 8 to 18 of all skill levels, will be hosted at golf courses throughout the state. They provide a fantastic opportunity for your junior golfer to get to know other junior players while playing.
For adults looking for a fun tournament experience and a chance to meet new people who share their love of the game, we have multiple opportunities available for social golf. The GoPlay IGA series, organized by Lexie VanAntwerp, our manager of member services, has you covered. This lineup of tournaments and play days includes events for both men and women, such as the Mixed Couples Chapman at Eagle Hills Golf Course and the newly created GoPlay IGA Net Four-Ball at RedHawk Golf Course.
Additionally, the GoPlay IGA series offers numerous women’s play days, which have been a wonderful way to connect with other women and enjoy friendly, low-key competitions on the golf course. These gatherings, hosted by local clubs across the state, are all about camaraderie, laughter, and supporting each other on the golf journey.
Beyond our regular Ladies’ Play Days, we’re excited for our second annual Women’s Walla Walla Getaway. Last year’s event was an unforgettable experience, combining golf with wine tasting in the vineyards of Walla Walla, Wash. This year’s event promises to be just as enjoyable, with fun golf on beautiful courses, wine tastings at local wineries, and great conversation — a perfect balance of social sport and relaxation.
Finally, the last element to look forward to in early 2026 are the IGA Winter Getaways, which took place in Palm Desert, Calif. and Las Vegas over the last couple months. These great events continue to be wonderful travel opportunities to escape the winter cold and enjoy the warmer temperatures and new golf experiences. We plan to open registration for the 2026 editions of these events in September.
Golf is more than just a game; it’s a community, a lifestyle, and a source of joy and fulfillment. As we look forward to the new season, I encourage all members to take advantage of the diverse range of events and programs that the IGA offers. Whether you’re a junior golfer just starting out, a seasoned competitor, or simply someone who loves the game, there is something for everyone. Join us in celebrating the spirit of golf, building lasting friendships, and creating memories on the course.
Here’s to another fantastic year of golf in Idaho!