The pandemic has sparked an increased interest in golf, and as a result, local clubs are overflowing with potential members and eager players, writes Jim Finnegan for Delaware Today.

“Our play was up 30 percent,” said Dave McNabb, head pro at Applebrook Golf Club in Malvern. “Membership was capped, and we now have a waiting list for the first time in club history.”

Things were not that rosy at the start of the pandemic when shutdowns left courses, clubhouses, and their eateries empty.

When they were allowed to reopen, managers had to deal with new safety rules that included two-person groups and single-rider carts.

“Every day seemed like a new way of doing things, and no one saw any of this coming,” recalled McNabb.

Soon, though, things drastically improved.

“We saw people loving golf again, people interacting with each other, people taking time to enjoy the small things,” said Ryan Lagergren, head pro at Stonewall in Elverson. “I don’t see any slowdown for us; we’re expecting to be just as busy, if not more.”

Read more about the increase in golf outings in Delaware Today.