Golf's greatest evolution: Gender expansion
The game of golf is unusual in the sense that it seems to change constantly. Technology, apparel, even the golfers themselves have changed.
Just like any other sport, its eras are defined by those who played. The Jones era, the Palmer era, the Nicklaus era, and of course, the present Tiger era.
But perhaps the single greatest change that golf has seen is the end of it being a game for only men. Today, that couldn't be further from the truth. The popularity of golf among women has become a cornerstone of the industry and if you want proof, look at any of the high school teams in the area.
As little as five years ago girls golf had an open door policy when tryouts came around at the end of summer. Now, many coaches are forced to make cuts before the season begins.
There are a few reasons behind why the girls golf scene has gained so much ground recently. One of those reasons is the involvement that parents have in the game.
Moreso today than ever, if you head out to a girls golf meet you will find parents walking the cart paths and watching every shot their daughter takes. Unlike some other sports, golf can be a family activity.
"To see the number of parents that come to our meets is amazing," said Palatine coach Bill Ludwigsen. "What people might not realize is that a lot of these moms and dads are taking time off of work to see their daughters play. It's just really nice to see."
If anyone has noticed the evolution of girls golf over the past five years it's Ludwigsen. He has been coaching for 10 years and will be retiring at the end of this spring.
Some will attribute technology to the girls success, but in reality it has changed more so how the game is played.
The 460 cc drivers are a must have because they've allowed the girls to get the most distance off the tee. Golf ball technology has taken quite a leap as well. The high spin rates and compression of ladies' golf balls help the distance factor as well as touch around the green.
More than anything else though, the quality of play in girls golf is because of one main reason, the players.
You can have a top of the line bag of equipment, but in the end it's all about who's swinging the club. And for many girls, the game has become a 12-month sport. Heated driving ranges and practice domes are flooded every winter with prep golfers.
Many of them have taken it upon themselves to practice and seek out instructors that get them ready for fall tryouts.
"The girls are definitely starting to catch the bug," said Prospect coach James Hamann. "These girls have passion for the game and that really seems to drive them."