One of the oft-repeated problems affecting participation is the time it takes to play. A number of companies have introduced systems that allow golfers to pay by the hole. It’s a way for golfers to potentially squeeze in some golf when they have a window. For facilities, it’s a chance to boost incremental revenue. So, are these “solutions” gaining traction?

Rounds of golf for December 2018 were down 7.7% nationally compared to the previous December. For the full year, play was down 4.8% overall from 2017.

Last year’s weather picture wasn’t a pretty one, particularly for golf. Rounds-played in the U.S. were down, year-over-year, in 10 of the first 11 months in 2018, affected in large part by colder weather and heavier precipitation than normal during the busiest months for golf.

Rounds of golf for November 2018 dropped 18.8% nationally compared to a year ago as four of eight geographic regions had precipitation levels surge more than 200% during the month compared to last November.

ClubCorp CEO David Pillsbury talks with the NGF about the company’s growth, non-traditional forms of golf and the future of the industry.