Thank you to everybody who took the time to participate in our survey earlier this year – we had 90 responses from members of 32 different clubs. You gave us lots of valuable feedback which has helped feed into our approach for this season and planning for 2026 which is now in full swing. We promised to get back to you to share the headlines and what your Committee is doing as a result. We’re delighted to say that 100% of respondents said that our events have met or exceeded their expectations, with 77% of you saying that the mix and type of events and prizes is about right. It’s good to hear that we’re delivering what people are looking for from our Association, thank you.
Traditionally, many of our events have been on Mondays since it’s a quieter day for clubs and they’re happy to host us at their less busy times. We are taking on board your requests for varying days of the week and 2026 has events booked for other days of the week, including a Sunday for the Mixed Meeting.
A number of you raised ideas for other events: some of our older members don’t want to play 18 holes these days, so we’re looking at trying a 9 hole event next year; 71% of you said you’d be interested in an Away Day outside Sussex, so we are currently looking for a venue near one of our borders; we’re holding a special Texas Scramble Invitation this summer for new members, 2025 Lady Captains and Vice Captains to get involved with some fun informal golf.
Feedback about matches and their catering was less clear cut, with 55% of respondents who have played matches saying it’s about right. Several of you noted what a long day it is, especially for away matches – historically the last pairs off will have been at the host club for 2+ hours before their tee time. This year we will trial advising people in advance of their playing partner and tee times so players can manage their arrival time and car shares. Teams will be notified with specific instructions around food and timings.
We have always worked very hard to keep costs down for our events. It was interesting to note that 76% of respondents felt that the quality of the venue was more important than price, which does give us more opportunity to have varied pricing for different venues in years to come. 85% of you said you’d be prepared to pay a higher subscription to support better venues and hospitality which the Committee will consider in due course.
We asked about whether we should consider broadening the eligibility criteria should our membership numbers continue to fall and you gave a resounding yes with 83% of you saying we should broaden who can become a member of the Association. Since our events have continued to be well supported this year, the Committee decided not to move forwards with including other roles such as Handicap/Competition Secretary or Treasurer in the immediate future, but recognise you’ve given us a mandate should it be necessary in the future. There was also significant support for inviting Vice Captains to join, hoping to get them on board and engaged in a year when they are less busy – the Committee plans to include this option at the next AGM.
Kay Grindell
Captain 2025