I knew I had to go when I first heard about the USGA Boatwright Intern Summit. Named after P.J. Boatwright Jr., the USGA’s legendary executive director of rules and competitions, this summit gathers interns from all over the country who love golf and want to help shape its future. As someone involved in junior golf through my work with SCGA Junior and the SCGA Junior Golf Foundation, I was pumped to learn, network and bring new ideas back to my team.
The summit was held at the beautiful USGA headquarters in Far Hills, New Jersey. Right from the start, I was amazed by the energy and enthusiasm of my fellow interns. We came from all over the U.S. but shared a love for golf and a commitment to its growth. The USGA staff welcomed us and were just as excited to have us there as we were to be there.
The agenda was packed with informative sessions and workshops. We got to hear from top professionals in the golf industry, including the CEO of the USGA, tournament directors and greens experts. Each session gave us a comprehensive look at different aspects of the golf world, from rules and regulations to tournament operations and community engagement.
One highlight was a session on the evolution of golf course management. We learned about sustainable practices to keep golf courses environmentally friendly while providing a top-notch experience for players. This was especially interesting to me, given the importance of sustainability in maintaining golf courses in California.
A central part of the summit was the chance to network with other interns and professionals in the golf industry. We had many opportunities to connect during meals, social events, and group activities. I met interns working in various areas, from course management to marketing, and we exchanged ideas and experiences. These connections are invaluable for support and potential collaborations in the future.
Returning to SCGA Junior and the SCGA Junior Golf Foundation, I felt energized and full of new ideas. The summit expanded my knowledge and reinforced my passion for golf and its positive impact on communities.
The USGA Boatwright Intern Summit was an experience that highlighted the importance of investing in the future leaders of golf. I’m grateful for the opportunity to have attended and look forward to contributing to the growth and evolution of this beloved sport.
