Golf is one of the only life-long sports. That is one of the many reasons why Mass Golf has teamed up with the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) to provide student-athletes with a path to get more involved in the sport.

Student-athletes are now able to obtain a Mass Golf/USGA GHIN Handicap Index directly through Mass Golf. The program is complimentary and will provide young golfers with the ability to become more connected with the sport.

Handicaps are a unique and integral part of the game of golf. The Handicap System enables golfers of all skill levels to compete on an equitable basis.

About the Program:

• Any student-athlete that is associated with an MIAA institution is eligible to participate.
• Student-athletes do not have to currently golf or be a part of a golf team.
• Participation in this program is complimentary. There will be no charge for obtaining or maintaining a Mass Golf/USGA GHIN Handicap Index.
• Membership and eligibility in this program expires for each student-athlete upon their 18th birthday. However, student-athletes will have the option of maintaining their USGA GHIN Handicap Index through a Mass Golf Member Club after their 18th birthday.

How to Get Started?

Interested student-athletes should CLICK HERE to fill out the official MIAA & Mass Golf Student-Athlete form. Once submitted a member of the Mass Golf staff will contact each student-athlete to set up the Mass Golf/USGA GHIN Handicap Index for the upcoming season.

Any questions about this program can be directed to Mark Gagne at mgagne@massgolf.org.

Do I Really Need a Handicap Index?

Whether you have visions of playing in a tournament some day or you just want to play a round at the course down the street, the answer is YES!

After all, golf is popular, in large part, because of its unique and equitable system of handicapping. The purpose of the Handicap System is to make the game more enjoyable by allowing everyone from the scratch golfer to the novice compete on an equitable basis. When you participate in any kind of competition, an established, up-to-date handicap is essential and will make the game more enjoyable for all participating

In addition, your handicap index is an indication of your level of play, regardless of the course you’re on, and a great incentive to improve your game because it’s based on your best 10 scores, In other words, it’s a reflection of your potential, not your average score or strokes over par.

State-Sponsored Junior Tournaments

Mass Golf annually host tournaments specifically for young golfers looking to experience championship golf. Whether you are looking to win a state championship title or just enjoy a taste of competitive golf, the following events are perfect for junior golfers. Click on the links below for more information on each.

Massachusetts Junior Amateur Championship

Massachusetts Young Golfers’ Amateur Championship

Massachusetts Girls’ Junior Amateur Championship