ALTA, Wyo. — Teton Valley Women’s Golf Association announces clinic, mixer and information for 2024 season league play including a new entry for high school players.
For Jessica Bowman, a player in her sixth year with the Teton Valley Women’s Golf Association (TVWGA), golf is a sport that fosters “camaraderie and connection, and when women come together on the course, they often find common ground beyond just the game itself.”
The 35-year-old local golf group was founded on the Targhee Village Golf Course and returned to the course last year after two years of playing at The Links at Teton Peaks. With its current member pool mostly coming from Teton Valley with a few hailing from Jackson and Fremont County in the past, the group is looking to bring more ladies out on the green and is teeing up the season with an upcoming Swing into Summer: Ladies Golf Clinic with Nathan L. Ferrell this Saturday, May 18, a Ladies Mixer on Wednesday, May 22 with a four-person scramble and a new invitation for youth players to join the summer league.
“Playing in the TVWGA league is a lot of fun,” Devrie Dayton said. “I have had the opportunity to meet some of my closest friends by playing on Wednesday nights. The laughter, camaraderie and connection that we share on the course is truly magical. We often find common ground beyond just playing the game itself,” while saying that the league caters to all skill levels of golf.
“We have various flights, based on handicaps so that everyone can play no matter what skill level they are at and are always looking to grow the league and encourage new players,” she added.
Dayton, a member of the league, said that the more seasoned players offer a sense of mentorship to the newer players and that committing to the league for the season does offer a formal sensibility for the sport with a set schedule, providing consistency and structure to up the golfing routine.
“This can help you stay committed to the game and make it easier to fit golfing into your schedule. It can lead to lasting friendships and a supportive network both on and off the course,”Dayton said.
Dayton said she sees TVWGA as providing a space for women to excel in a traditionally male-dominated sport.
“By participating, you contribute to breaking down barriers and empowering women in the golfing community,” she added, saying there’s plenty of fun to be found on and off the course in the supportive community of women athletes.
Saturday’s clinic is a chance for women to refine skills in both short and long game aspects of their chosen sport. There is no cap on the number of participants and though pre-registering is preferred, participants can sign up on the morning of the clinic at Targhee Village Golf Course. Registration is from 8 to 9 a.m., with instruction from 9 a.m. to noon. The $75 fee includes a continental breakfast with mimosas and all skill levels are encouraged to participate.
Ferrell is the Head Golf and Teaching Professional at Targhee Village Golf Course and has won the Idaho Open, Rocky Mountain Section Championship and competed in three PGA Professional Championships.
“As a coach, he has dedicated his energy and attention toward improving all aspects of his students’ games. Whether you are a beginner or a D1 college athlete, he believes in working with anyone to set up a game plan to make their goals a reality,” Dayton said. Dayton has been playing in the league for six years, and though improving one’s game is always the goal, the sport is about more than just scorecards.
This will also be the first summer that TVWGA is opening up the league to high school players with a special rate of $140 for the season. Absolute beginners of any age who want to try their hand at a round but are not ready to invest in their own set of clubs can rent clubs from the Targhee Village Golf Course.
“Golf can be a challenging sport, both mentally and physically. I love playing golf with women who support and encourage each other through the ups and downs of the game,” Cristine Wehner said. A fourth-year player with the league, Wehner said, “Whether it’s cheering on a great shot or offering words of encouragement after a tough round, these moments can strengthen friendships.”
For more information, contact TVWGA at tvwomensgolf@gmail.com.
