Tuesday, November 8, 2011 -- 45th IAGA Conference, Pinehurst, NC

This week, I have the opportunity to attend the IAGA Conference in Pinehurst. Pinehurst is known as one of the premier golf resorts in America. Home to #2, a Donald Ross gem that has hosted many championships including the 1999 US Open won by Payne Stewart, Pinehurst also has seven other courses. While pricey, it is a must visit for the avid golfer.

The IAGA, or International Association of Golf Administrators, is a group of individuals from local, state, regional, national and international golf associations. The conference allows staff from the associations to gather and discuss the golf industry and happenings within the various areas. Essentially, it is an opportunity to share "best practices" and experiences from successful, and failed, ventures and programs. It is amazing to hear about all of the many different programs these associations are conducting. Of course, many of the great ideas are technology related.

While an annual event, it is generally a bi-annual event for me. This is my sixth or seventh IAGA conference since joining the MGA in 1998. (I must add that the "Met" Golf Association prefers to call itself "the MGA". Since it is six years the senior of the MN Golf Association, I will not argue their claim.) During the many years I have attended, I am always able to take (steal) many great ideas. This year is no different. I came with the intent to gain as much information as possible on using plotter printers (a large, wide-scale printer we use to print score sheets and posters) and TPP Online (our tournament and entry management system).

I had the great privilege to co-lead the sessions for the Rules and Competitions Directors with Dave Colling (Golf Association of Ontario) and Kirby Martin (Golf Association of Philadelphia). The simple process of leading the discussion is really rewarding, not to mention beneficial. Again, there are so many great ideas being used, it can cause one to leave with their head spinning or mind racing at 100 mph. How can I incorporate this or that into the MGA tournament program?

Now, I'm off to a session by Thomas Pagel (USGA Director of Rules) on the changes to the Rules of Golf. Thomas is an intelligent young man (kid from my perspective!) who be provide a great leader in the Rules for many years to come. It will be interesting to hear the many reasons for some of the changes of 2012.

Next time, I'll report on the IAGA Championship of this afternoon on Course #5.

Cheers-

Doug