The USGA’s latest Golf Scorecard confirms what many in the Miami Valley are already seeing on the ground: golf participation remains strong, flexible formats are thriving, and recreational play is driving the game forward.Across the country, more golfers are playing and posting scores than ever before, with nine-hole rounds and short-course golf continuing to grow at a rapid pace. These trends align closely with how golf is being played locally — where time-efficient options, welcoming entry points, and recreational enjoyment are increasingly important to sustaining participation.

The data also reinforces a key point for clubs, facilities, and community partners in the Miami Valley: most golfers are not chasing competition — they are chasing access, enjoyment, and consistency. More than nine out of ten rounds posted nationwide are recreational, and newer golfers are especially likely to engage through nine-hole play. This highlights the value of flexible programming, approachable events, and course setups that meet golfers where they are.

In short, the national picture validates local priorities. Efforts to expand access, support shorter formats, and encourage casual but consistent play are not trends on the fringe — they are now central to the future of the game. The full USGA Golf Scorecard provides deeper insight into these patterns and offers useful context as the Miami Valley golf community continues working to grow and strengthen the game at every level.

To View the Report

The Ohio Golf Course Owners Association Annual Education Conference returns on Tuesday, March 3rd at Westbrook Country Club in Mansfield. This conference brings together owners and industry leaders for conference on insight, innovation, and practical solutions. The 2026 conference is sponsored by Real Time Feedback and presented by Jonas Club Software. OGCOA members receive two complimentary passes per golf course, while non-members are welcome to attend by purchasing a pass.

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This year’s PGA Show has set a clear tone for what lies ahead, with innovation driving nearly every conversation. From new equipment designs to technology reshaping how and where golf is played, the show floor is packed with products focused on performance, efficiency, and engagement.

Carbon-forward club development, simulator and launch-monitor technology, and a steady stream of ideas from the Innovation District are generating the strongest buzz. There is simply too much happening to fully capture any single category in one report, but for those looking to dive deeper into a specific area, more coverage is only a quick Google search away—underscoring just how broad and fast-moving the industry has become.

The Southwest District of the OHSAA Sectional and District Tournament Schedule is now available. Over a three-week stretch in September and early October, teams and individuals will compete in 17 Sectional tournaments and five District Championships, all with the goal of advancing to the OHSAA State Tournament. The schedule once again reflects the depth of competitive golf across the district and the collaboration required to stage postseason play.

A notable highlight is Heatherwoode returning as the District host, resuming the role after a brief pause due to a major irrigation project. In total, 22 postseason events will be contested, and we could not do it without the wonderful support of our host golf facilities. These courses include Echo Hills, Glenview, Miami Whitewater, National Golf Links, Pipestone, Reeves, Shelby Oaks, The Mill Course, Turtle Creek, Walden Ponds, WGC, and Heatherwoode. Their continued support is essential in providing student-athletes with a meaningful postseason experience.

Bob Holz is a new Miami Valley Golf volunteer and a longtime resident of the region, having lived in the Miami Valley for nearly 40 years. A Lebanon, Ohio resident, Bob was introduced to golf by his father and has enjoyed the game ever since. A former high school golfer, Bob has played for many years and recorded several notable finishes in club and local events.

Now retired after a career at NCR, he brings extensive volunteer experience to his new role with Miami Valley Golf, having served his community in a variety of roles. Bob and his wife are empty nesters, with three children and two grandchildren living locally. His strong ties to the Miami Valley and passion for golf make him a welcome addition to the Miami Valley Golf volunteer community.

The above video explains what makes a score acceptable—and what does not—so your know when a round can be posted under the World Handicap System™. Additional information and resources on the World Handicap System™ are available at www.usga.org/whs.

The Wright State Golf Auction directly benefits the Wright State University Men’s Golf Team and supports the continued success of the program. The auction features an outstanding collection of golf experiences, including access to many of the Miami Valley’s premier private clubs, along with several well-known and highly regarded clubs from outside the region. These exclusive offerings provide a unique opportunity for golfers while making a meaningful impact on Wright State Golf.

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Applications are currently being accepted through January 31 for the 2026-2027 Academic year.

To Apply

Miami Valley Golf is now accepting nominations for the next class of the Dayton Golf Hall of Fame, scheduled for induction in late 2026. Established in 1978, the Hall of Fame honors individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the game in the Dayton area, whether through exceptional playing careers or through significant service to the game. To date, sixty-nine men and women have been inducted into this distinguished group

Nominees must have an association with the Dayton golf community and demonstrate exceptional character, integrity, and impact at the local, state, or national level.

Nominations may be submitted by anyone using the online nomination form. Inductees and their families will be recognized at a ceremony toward the end of the 2026 season.

Nomination Resources:

• Nomination Submission

• Hall of Fame Members

Miami Valley Golf’s 2026 event registration opened Monday, and the Spring Better Ball filled within 16 hours. With strong early demand across the schedule, golfers are encouraged to register early.

4/27 - Spring BB – NCR South (Wait list Only)

5/4 - Masters #1-Dayton

5/11 - Shamble - Troy

6/15 - Masters - Miami Valley

6/22 -6/25 - Metropolitan - Beavercreek

6/29 - Twin BB - Piqua

8/10 - Masters - Walnut Grove

8/17 - Classic - Miami Valley

8/31 – 09/01 – Sr & Mid-Am - Dayton