Washington, United States: The American Golf Industry Coalition (AGIC) will unite representatives from across leading organisations and companies in golf for its 17th National Golf Day event from April 30 to May 2. 

The event in Washington DC brings together industry associations, partners and leaders to share the game’s significant economic, societal and community impact across the United States. 

Greg McLaughlin, CEO of AGIC, a division of the World Golf Foundation, said: “Golf continues to be a powerful economic driver and social connector in communities across the United States.

“With more than 47 million Americans engaging with the sport, golf generates a direct economic impact of US$102 billion and supports nearly two million jobs nationwide. 

“Our industry’s total economic impact, including indirect and induced effects, reaches US$226.5 billion. National Golf Day allows us to share this story with policy-makers while advocating for issues important to the continued growth and accessibility of our industry.” 

The AGIC will converge on Capitol Hill for more than 230 meetings with members of Congress to discuss key legislative and regulatory issues affecting the golf industry.

The event will include a congressional reception, providing industry stakeholders opportunities to connect with members, including those who are part of the Congressional Golf Caucus.

The Congressional Golf Caucus has more than 140 members and is co-chaired by Representatives Nancy Mace (R-SC), Jimmy Panetta (D-CA), Richard Hudson (R-NC), and Scott Peters (D-CA).  

Jake Sherman, Founder of Punchbowl News and regular contributor to NBC News, will speak to attendees during a keynote address. Sherman has been covering national politics for more than a decade, and has focused his reporting on Congress, the congressional leadership and the politics of legislating.

He chronicled the major legislative battles of the Obama and Trump presidencies, and has travelled the country and the world, reporting on power and politics. 

The event comes at a time when golf is experiencing historic growth and engagement. In 2024, Americans played 543 million rounds, marking five consecutive years with more than 500 million rounds played.

Participation has grown significantly across key demographics, with notable increases among young players (3.7 million ages six-17, up 6%), women (7.9 million, up 13%), and people of colour (6.9 million, up 13%). 

In addition to advocacy meetings, attendees will participate in community service projects led by the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America at East Potomac Golf Course and Old Soldiers’ Home Golf Course.

These efforts will continue the industry’s tradition of enhancing public spaces, with last year’s projects including the planting of more than 500 trees and plants and beautification efforts across the National Mall and Langston Golf Course.

The three-day event will feature networking opportunities and educational sessions highlighting the industry’s commitment to accessibility, community impact and responsible resource management.