For The Love of Golf

Ever wonder how golf got its name or why so many individuals have a deep passion for this sport?

Read on to learn a brief history of this game and three of the benefits this sport offers its players.

A Brief History of Golf

Finding its origins in ancient Rome around 100 BCE, golf has evolved over the years. In China during the Song Dynasty (960 CE – 1279 CE), one can find another version of this great game. Although the idea for this game dates back to ancient times, the modern version traces back to Scotland in the 1400s.

Scotts love this game so much that the Scottish Parliament, in 1457, banned the game. The parliament thought playing “gowf” would be a distraction for their military. “Gowf” was a distraction for the men, and many would play instead of practicing skills, like archery. 

In 1471 and 1491, there were more government bans of the sport “gowf.” A few years after 1491, after reversing the ban, would even buy clubs and balls to play the game.

Initially, the golf balls were of leather or wood craftsmanship. Moreover, people were crafting clubs out of various wood, such as apple, holly, beech, or pear. Then in 1826, hickory wood became the staple wood to create club shafts in Great Britain.

After constructing the first 18-hole course in 1764 at St. Andrews, the modern version of the game took off. Also, this 18-hole course became the new standard for gameplay. The game of “gowf” spread in popularity, and the first British Open Championship took place in 1860. Later, the Professional Golfer’s Association (PGA) in 1916 came about. Then, in Siwanoy Country Club in New York, the first PGA Championship game happened.

3 Benefits of Golf

With the history of the game given, we can focus on why people worldwide love this game. Friends and family can spend time together golfing or watching others demonstrate their golfing skills. Youth and adults can showcase their dedication and the benefits of this great sport through championships or other competitions.

There are many benefits to this game of clubs and balls, such as health, social, and personal discipline. 

Benefit #1

The first benefit of this fantastic sport is it improves a person’s health. It provides Vitamin D, exercise and connects individuals with nature. As studies have shown, nature positively affects a person’s health. Positive effects of nature include reducing heart rate and the production of stress hormones.

In addition, many find this sport fulfilling as it provides many opportunities for individuals to spend time outside exercising in fun ways, either alone or with friends. 

Benefit #2

The second benefit we will showcase is regarding social development. Even youth can develop lifelong social skills as they play with others and learn to communicate efficiently. In addition, older individuals can enhance their social life through golfing with family and friends. 

Spending time with others in a fun activity allows people to connect while providing physical and mental challenges.

Benefit #3

Lastly, golfing helps individuals develop personal discipline. From the mental preparation to the needed practice of swings and stretches, individuals benefit from playing an 18-hole course. The discipline of a person is seen through patience during training and on the course. Moreover, golfing will instill a sense of responsibility in an individual. 

Focus is also a needed skill practiced during training sessions that assist a player throughout the course. Focus helps individuals off the green as well. Focusing on tasks and determining the best course of action is essential in life at school or work.

Skills taught on the green can quickly transfer to situations off the green. Communication is vital to express oneself and to understand what others are saying. In addition, safeguarding one’s health is essential for a long and fulfilled life.

Develop a Love For The Game With IRGF

Want to join our foundation in Indian River County? If so, please contact the Founder and President of IRGF, Roger Van Dyke. He is available by email at rogervandykeirgf@gmail.com or by phone at 772-713-9593. We have many different training options, such as player development and after-school training. We’d look forward to helping all develop life skills through golf.