Transforming the Golfer Experience in Partnership with the USGA Golf is a game rich in tradition and skill, but above all, it’s meant to be enjoyable. Far too often, players face course setups that exceed their abilities, resulting in longer rounds and unnecessary frustration. To address this, the USGA’s Best Tees initiative focuses on what truly matters: making golf more enjoyable, inclusive, and accessible for everyone. In 2025, Miami Valley Golf is proud to partner with the USGA to roll out this program to member facilities eager to enhance the golfing experience for their players. The Consumer-Focused Approach to Golf At its core, the Best Tees program is about tailoring the game to the player. Extensive research by the USGA revealed a striking trend: more than half of all golfers play from tees that are too long for their game. This results in longer approach shots, more time spent on the course, and fewer opportunities to enjoy the thrill of pars and birdies. The solution? Empowering golfers to make smarter choices about where they play from. By aligning tee placement with skill level, players gain confidence, enjoy the game more, and improve their overall experience on the course.  Tools Designed with the Golfer in Mind
The USGA, in collaboration with golf facilities, has developed several tools to help golfers get the most out of their game: - Tee Selector Tool: A simple and intuitive resource that helps golfers identify the best tees for their abilities, ensuring a more enjoyable round every time.
- Clear Guidance: Best Practice Manuals and Quick Start Guides provide straightforward advice for players and facilities alike, making it easier to adopt the program.
- Enhanced Consultation: Miami Valley Golf in connection with the USGA will work closely with golf courses to customize the Best Tees program, ensuring it meets the specific needs of players and facilities choosing to take part in the Miami Valley.
How Best Tees Benefits Golfers Adopting Best Tees isn’t just about making the game easier—it’s about making it more enjoyable. Here’s what golfers can expect: - Faster Rounds: Playing from the right tees can improve the pace of play, giving players more time to enjoy the rest of their day.
- More Fun: Hitting greens in regulation and making pars or birdies are more attainable, creating a greater sense of achievement.
- Increased Inclusivity: Shorter forward tees make the game more welcoming, particularly for female golfers and beginners, leading to broader participation.
A Real-World Example Courses like Erin Hills have embraced the Best Tees philosophy and seen incredible results. When golfers moved forward, their enjoyment increased, and they returned more frequently. By aligning the course setup with what players truly need, Erin Hills enhanced both the player experience and the course’s reputation. Building a Better Game Together The success of the Best Tees program hinges on partnerships between Miami Valley Golf, the USGA, golf facilities, and the players themselves. Facilities that adopt the program not only improve the golfer experience but also foster a sense of community and connection. The result? More players on the course, happier rounds, and a stronger future for the game. Get Involved Miami Valley Golfers and facilities interested in the Best Tees initiative can connect with Miami Valley Golf to learn more. Currently we have 14 facilities that will take part in 2025. Whether through the Tee Selector Tool or personalized consultations, the program is designed to meet the unique needs of players and courses alike. For more information, visit the USGA Golfer Experience website or email info@mvgolf.org Conclusion Golf is a game for everyone, and the Best Tees program, in partnership with the USGA, is redefining what that means. By focusing on the needs of the golfer, this initiative helps players enjoy the game to its fullest, creating better experiences and lasting memories every time they step onto the course. Together, we can build a more enjoyable and inclusive future for golf. | 
