Ava Romero
Golf writing is a diverse and exciting field that attracts many aspiring writers. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or a passionate sports enthusiast, there are numerous avenues to explore in this domain. One option is to pursue freelance golf writing, which offers the freedom to collaborate with various publications and organisations. This path allows you to contribute to golf magazines, websites, and blogs, providing insightful content on topics ranging from tournament coverage to equipment reviews. Additionally, you can seek opportunities with established sports media companies, such as ESPN, Fox Corporation, and The Athletic, which often have dedicated positions for golf writers and researchers. Building a strong network within the golf industry and joining associations like the Golf Writers Association of America can also open doors to writing opportunities. Some writers even choose to start their own golf-focused media businesses or podcasts. Whether you're an expert golfer or a novice, combining your writing skills with a passion for golf can lead to a rewarding career in golf writing.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Experience | Experience in the golf industry is important. Brendon Elliott, for example, has nearly 30 years of experience in the golf industry. Michael Leonard has played golf for two decades and has participated in elite competitive events. |
| Passion | A passion for golf and writing is essential. |
| Knowledge | A deep knowledge of the game is crucial. Knowing golf terms and keeping up with tournaments and events can help. |
| Flexibility | Being able to write about various golf-related topics, such as product reviews, course reviews, tips, and instruction, is advantageous. |
| Professional Associations | Joining professional associations like the Golf Writers Association of America can be beneficial for networking and credibility. |
| Freelance Opportunities | There are numerous freelance opportunities for golf writers, including magazines, blogs, websites, and books. |
| Compensation | Golf writers can be compensated in various ways, including per article, per word, or through other means, such as receiving products to test. |
| Networking | Networking with other writers and industry professionals can help create more opportunities. |
| Pitching Ideas | Knowing how to pitch story ideas to editors is essential. Researching upcoming topics and creating short proposals can increase the chances of success. |
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What You'll Learn
Join a golf writers' association
Joining a golf writers' association is a great way to connect with other writers in the industry and can help you establish yourself as a credible and serious golf writer. Being a member of a golf writers' association can also help you network and build relationships with other writers and industry professionals, which could lead to future work opportunities.
One such association is the Golf Writers Association of America, which is an organization that a writer with a growing passion for writing about golf might consider joining. There are also a variety of magazines and trade journals covering golf that you could write for. These include high-circulation, newsstand golf magazines with readerships of 2-6 million, as well as local golf magazines or golf trade journals with lower circulations.
Golf writers' associations typically offer a range of benefits to their members, such as networking opportunities, educational resources, and industry updates. They may also provide members with access to exclusive events, such as tournaments and golf charity events, which can be great sources of inspiration for your writing.
In addition to joining a golf writers' association, you may also want to consider joining a more general writing or journalism association, which can provide you with additional resources and connections that can be beneficial to your career as a golf writer. These associations often offer workshops, seminars, and other educational opportunities that can help you improve your writing skills and stay up-to-date with industry trends.
Joining a golf writers' association can be a great way to establish yourself in the industry and connect with other writers and professionals who share your passion for the sport. It can also provide you with valuable resources, networking opportunities, and potential work opportunities that can help further your career as a golf writer.
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Pitch ideas to editors
Golf is a popular sport with a huge market, so there are plenty of opportunities for freelance writers to contribute to magazines, trade journals, and blogs. Here are some tips for pitching your ideas to editors:
Know the Game
Even if you're writing a human-interest story, it's important to understand the game and its terminology. Editors will expect you to be familiar with golf, so watch some games and brush up on your golf knowledge before pitching your ideas.
Research Upcoming Topics
Keep an eye on tournaments, charity events, and seasonal stories. If a golf magazine has an editorial calendar, use it to your advantage to pitch relevant, timely topics. Have a story idea in mind and create a short proposal to send to the editor.
Pitch to Local Magazines First
Starting with your local golf magazine can increase your chances of success. High-circulation golf magazines often require professional freelance writers with 5-7+ years of experience, so building a relationship with your local magazine can be a great stepping stone.
Hot Topics to Pitch
Consider writing about junior golfers, kiddie tournaments, how-to guides for junior players, popular junior players, golf associations, and tips on balancing golf with school or work. You can also pitch ideas on the mental, physical, strategic, and patient aspects of the game.
Understand Length Requirements
Keep in mind that tips are usually short and detailed, while feature articles can be 1,500 words or more. Editors may also prefer to buy All Rights to your article and any accompanying photos, so be prepared to discuss these aspects during the pitching process.
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Write for your local golf magazine first
If you want to become a golf writer, writing for your local golf magazine first is a great way to start. Not only will you gain experience and build your portfolio, but you'll also get to know the ins and outs of the industry and make connections with local golfers and businesses.
To get started, you can pitch story ideas to the editor of your local golf magazine. It's a good idea to research the upcoming topics and seasonal stories, as well as keep tabs on local tournaments and golf charity events. You can also propose a short story idea or submit a query letter. While many high-circulation golf magazines don't post writer's guidelines, your local magazine may be more accommodating. Simply reach out to the editor and express your interest in writing for them.
When crafting your pitch, it's important to demonstrate your knowledge of the game. Even if you're writing a human-interest story, including a few golf terms can show your understanding of the sport. It's also beneficial to watch a few games to familiarise yourself with the lingo and the culture. In terms of length, keep in mind that tips are usually short and detailed, while features can be around 1,500 words or more.
Writing for your local golf magazine can be a stepping stone to bigger opportunities. It can help you build relationships with local golfers, golf courses, and businesses, which can lead to future collaborations and story ideas. Additionally, you can use this platform to showcase your writing skills and expertise in golf, attracting the attention of larger publications or even offering your services as a freelance golf writer.
So, if you're passionate about golf and writing, don't be afraid to take that first step and reach out to your local golf magazine. It could be the start of a rewarding career doing what you love.
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Learn the golf lingo
Golf has a language of its own, and to become a golf writer, you need to be fluent in it. The game may look simple, but it involves a complex interplay of mental, physical, strategic, and patient skills.
Golfers and writers alike will benefit from understanding the unique terminology of the sport. Before you start writing, it's important to watch a few games and familiarize yourself with the lingo. You don't want to be stumped by a word or phrase when crafting your articles.
The golf ball, for instance, is often referred to as a tiny white ball, and the game involves a lot of strategy and patience. When it comes to scoring, you'll need to know the difference between an "eagle" and a "birdie." An eagle is when a golfer completes a hole in two strokes less than par, while a birdie is one stroke under par. There's also the "condor," a rare feat of finishing a hole four strokes under par. Knowing these terms will help you convey the excitement and nuances of the game to your readers.
Additionally, you should be aware of the various golf associations and tournaments, such as the world-renowned American Junior Golf Association (AJGA), which promotes junior golf. Understanding the landscape of golf, from local tournaments to state-level competitions, will provide context for your writing and help you connect with your audience, whether they are avid golfers or newcomers to the sport.
Lastly, don't forget to immerse yourself in the golf community. Follow golf blogs, websites, and magazines to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and topics of discussion in the golf world. This will ensure that your writing is relevant and engaging, and it will also help you build your network and establish yourself within the golf writing community.
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Build a personal brand
Building a personal brand as a golf writer involves several key steps. Firstly, it is essential to establish yourself as an expert in the field of golf. This can be achieved by gaining extensive knowledge of the sport, its rules, and its culture. Attend golf tournaments, follow the PGA and European Tours, and immerse yourself in the world of golf. Consider joining a golf club or taking lessons to improve your understanding of the game.
The next step is to create a strong online presence. Build a website or blog dedicated to your golf writing, and actively engage with other golf websites and blogs. Use social media platforms such as Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn to network with fellow golf enthusiasts, players, and industry professionals. Share your insights, opinions, and experiences related to golf, and interact with your audience to build a community.
Another important aspect of building your brand is to showcase your writing skills and expertise. Write articles, blog posts, or opinion pieces on diverse golf-related topics, such as golf instruction, equipment reviews, course reviews, or interviews with golfers and industry personalities. Offer insightful analysis, unique perspectives, and engaging content that resonates with your audience.
Consider collaborating with golf-related businesses, such as golf course operators, equipment manufacturers, or golf apparel brands, to establish yourself as a trusted source of information. You can also explore opportunities to contribute to golf magazines, both in print and online. Pitch story ideas, share your expertise, and build relationships with editors and publishers.
Finally, to further enhance your brand, you can create a podcast or YouTube channel dedicated to golf. This will allow you to reach a wider audience, including those who prefer audio or visual content. Interview prominent golfers, coaches, or industry insiders, and share your conversations with your listeners or viewers. Building a personal brand as a golf writer requires a combination of expertise, online presence, engaging content, and strategic collaborations. By following these steps, you can establish yourself as a trusted and recognised voice in the world of golf writing.
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Frequently asked questions
Some good topics to write about for golf magazines include the growth of young golfers, kiddie tournaments, how-to play golf for juniors, popular junior players, golf associations, and tips on how to play golf.
To get started as a freelance golf writer, it is recommended to first gain experience writing for your local golf magazine. You can then pitch story ideas to editors of high-circulation golf magazines. It is important to know the game well and be familiar with golf terms.
Some platforms that hire golf writers include FanSided, ESPN, and The Athletic Media Company. Additionally, freelance golf writers can find opportunities through websites such as FreelanceWriting.com and by reaching out to golf blogs and websites directly.
