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If you live in the Mid-Atlantic region, as I do, “The Ides of March” means more to you than the infamous threat in William Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar. “Ides” is a reference to the middle of the month. Literally, the “Ides of March” means March 15^th.  What is the significance of March 15^th  where I live?  It is the official USGA start to a new golf season, meaning scores must be posted and golf really “counts” again, after going unofficial at the end of last season on November 16^th.  Like “Opening Day” in baseball, the past is forgotten and new hope for the future prevails!!

There is a special catharsis about being given a fresh start.  If you live in warmer climates, the USGA doesn’t recognize an “off-season.” As appealing as it may seem, too much of one thing, even a very good thing, can lead to monotony, boredom, and complacency. It’s great to be able to play year-round, but I think that there is something more refreshing about having an off-season to just relax and take a break from the game or take the extra time to focus on improving your game. For some, trying to improve in the “off-season” is not necessarily a high priority. Just putting the clubs away and waiting for the warm weather to return, so that golf can resume in comfort, is the break that they need. However, for others of us, we enter the “off-season” with intent.  We look forward to our winter season to retool and regroup. We commit to getting in better golf shape, taking the time to get lessons, buy new clubs, or play some “practice rounds” where scoring isn’t official (you can’t count your score for your index even if you want to). Courses are more deserted due to the weather; multiple shots can be played easily without holding up anyone. Lots of driving ranges, indoor and outdoor, do great business in the winter months as golfers try to get better to prepare for the new season. Much can be accomplished when your focus is more on improvement than achievement.

As is the case in a lot of other sports, the end of the previous season turns us to thoughts of “wait until next year!” Well, as of March 15, next year is here!!!  The weather is warming, the days are longer, and golf hope springs eternal! The anticipation of new opportunities and achievements is exciting! Just the simple notion of playing golf in short sleeves and short pants, especially compared to winter gloves, hats, etc., is exciting in and of itself! My weekly golf group, the Black Diamonds (mentioned in previous posts), is in our three-week “pre-season,” which includes a round a week leading up to our official opening day on April 8th. One of my great blessings is the joy of a new season of fellowship and competition with the Black Diamonds. In terms of sports competition and fun, at this stage in my life, playing with the Black Diamonds is a most distinct pleasure. Beyond the Black Diamonds, there are other new beginnings of golf to embrace with many friends, near and far, in the coming months. New starts remind me of how thankful I am for the many blessings I have. I am reminded to count them and not take them for granted! March 15th is always a special day of gratitude and renewal on my calendar!!

I wish my fellow golfers who live in climates where there is an “off-season” all the best in this new season!  May your hard work (or rest) pay off with good health, a lower index, and more enjoyable golf ahead!  “Tee it high and let it fly;” then “read it, roll it, hole it!!”