What is a Golf Scramble, Anyway?
Before we dive into planning, here’s a quick refresher:
A golf scramble is a tournament format where each player in a team (usually 4) tees off, then the team selects the best shot. All players then play their next shots from that chosen spot. It’s fast-paced, inclusive for all skill levels, and great for camaraderie.
Step 1: Define Your Goal
Start with a clear objective:
- Are you raising money for a cause?
- Hosting a networking event?
- Just gathering friends for fun?
Your goal will influence your venue, sponsors, entry fees, and prizes.
Step 2: Choose the Right Course
Book your course early—popular dates fill up fast. When choosing:
- Ask about group rates or fundraising discounts
- Confirm they accommodate scramble formats
- See if they provide extras like carts, drink tickets, or on-site catering
- Ask if you can sell signage or sponsor holes
Tip: Try to get an early morning or noon tee time to allow for socializing afterward.
Step 3: Set Your Format and Rules
Here are some common options:
- Team size: 4-person teams are standard
- Scoring: Gross score or handicap-adjusted
- Mulligans: Sell them as add-ons for fundraising or fun
- Contests: Longest drive, closest to the pin, hole-in-one prize
Post the rules clearly at check-in and on each cart for easy reference.
Step 4: Set Pricing and Registration
Determine your cost-per-player or per-team based on:
- Course fees
- Food/beverage costs
- Prizes
- Add-on perks (shirts, swag bags, etc.)
Then decide how you’ll collect signups:
- Online: Use platforms like Eventbrite or GolfStatus
- Offline: Accept paper forms and checks from local teams or sponsors
Encourage early registration with discounted “early bird” pricing.
Step 5: Secure Sponsors and Donors
Local businesses love to support community events—especially ones that bring foot traffic or social media exposure.
Offer tiered sponsor levels:
- Hole sponsors: $100–$300
- Prize sponsors
- Presenting sponsor: Name in the title, banner placement, tee box promo
Offer extras like logo placement, mentions on social, or inclusion in thank-you materials post-event.
Step 6: Promote the Scramble
Start promoting 6–8 weeks out. Use:
- Flyers at the course, local businesses, and clubs
- Facebook Events and Instagram Posts
- Email marketing to local golf leagues, alumni groups, or past participants
- Local press or community calendars
Bonus: Highlight your cause, raffle prizes, or post-tournament festivities to draw more interest.
Step 7: Plan the Day-Of Experience
The smoother your event runs, the more people will want to come back next year.
To-do list:
- Create team packets with scorecards, maps, rules, and giveaways
- Set up a check-in station with signs and a friendly team
- Coordinate volunteers to monitor holes, contests, or beverage carts
- Have a master of ceremonies for kickoff, announcements, and awards
Don’t forget signage and sponsor recognition at each hole!
Step 8: Prizes and Awards
Scrambles are about fun, but a little friendly competition doesn’t hurt.
Great prize ideas:
- Trophies for top 3 teams
- Longest drive and closest-to-pin contests
- Raffle prizes (gift cards, coolers, local event tickets)
Pro tip: Always offer a fun “last place” prize too—it keeps the spirit light.
Step 9: Thank Everyone
After the scramble, thank:
- Participants (via email or a social post with photos)
- Sponsors (tag them in a recap post or send a certificate of appreciation)
- Volunteers and the golf course staff
This step is crucial for turning a one-time event into a yearly tradition.
Final Thoughts
Planning a golf scramble doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a clear goal, smart logistics, and some community support, you’ll pull off an event that people can’t wait to sign up for again next year.
Now grab that clipboard, polish your pitch, and get ready to hit the fairway.
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