News Release

For Immediate Release: December 16, 2007

Headline: Four New "Off Season" Dates Announced for 2008 MGA/GHIN Handicapping Season

Norton, MA – The MGA is happy to announce new changes to the GHIN Handicap season. For the first time in history, Bay State golfers can post scores during the off season.

Since the advent of the GHIN handicap system, golfers from the cold-weather regions have been allowed to post scores from March through October. New for the 2008 season, Massachusetts golfers who hold an up-to-date handicap index will be able to post scores during the off season and handicap indexes will be updated appropriately.

How does it all work?

Simply stated, the traditional GHIN Handicap Revision schedule has been increased from 13 to 21 revisions. Instead of forcing Bay State golfers who venture to warmer climates during the winter season to hold on to their scores until our spring "opening" day, golfers can now post scores during the winter months and see a change in their handicap index. The first "off season" revision will take place on January 1st and will be followed by additional revisions on February 5 and March 4. A fourth revision date will take place on December 2 to round out the 21-revision season.

As an added bonus to the 2008 season, two "in season" revisions have been added during the month of April and one to end the 2008 golf season with the last "Active Season" revision taking place November 12. These three added revisions along with the four "Off Season" Revisions total 21 Revisions (17 Active, 4 Off Season).

It is important to note that the active golfing season in Massachusetts is still April 2 through November 12. Only rounds played between those dates and in this state (or in any other state that observes a seasonal golf schedule) will be counted towards one's handicap index. These new "off season" revision dates affect those individuals who post rounds in an area that is in season (e.g. Florida, Arizona, etc.).

We hope that this important changes will create a more fun and accessible golfing environment for all our valued members.

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact the MGA's director of Handicapping, Scott Guild, via email (sguild@mgalinks.org) or phone (774-430-9100 ext. 2215).