2023 Captain Reflections

“We would be honored if you would consider serving as the first Atlanta captain for NewClub.”

I still remember the phone call like it was yesterday, unfortunately, it wasn’t yesterday – it was almost two

years ago. It’s hard to bring words to paper that explain what the last 24 months have been like for

NewClub, the chapter here in Atlanta, and myself. If you’ll allow me, I’ll do my best to wrap it up in a few

lasting memories and then leave you with a departing thought…

You belong to what? What is it? Huh…

I found myself initially struggling to explain what NewClub was, its purpose, and more

importantly why others should be a member. I followed them on social, knew a few folks in it,

saw the trips and thought to myself, self, that looks fun! As I was about to make the jump in as

a national member, I remember Matt Considine and Kevin Moore sharing they’re opening a

chapter in Atlanta. This was perfect timing! I quickly joined and was immersed in a new world

of what golf and community could be to so many others. As time passed, I became more

comfortable with explaining what NewClub was and sharing the vision. Once you tell the story a

few times and fold in your experiences, it becomes more personal.

Founders Cup 2021

This was my first trip with NewClub – meet up with others who have bought into the idea of a

community around this great game and what it does for each of us. I had played a few local

rounds with Atlanta folks and thought this is good. It wasn’t until Pinehurst the reach of this

society was on full display. Matt / Mark asked if I would be interested in leading the Atlanta /

National team in the Ryder Cup style competition against Chicago. As the event grew closer, I

tried my best to get to know as many of the members as possible and understand what they

were looking for in the experience at Founder’s Cup. It’s amazing if you just ask people for their

thoughts on something and “genuinely” listen how much you can learn and grow as a person.

So we don’t irritate old wounds, we’ll leave the outcome of the ’21 Founder’s Cup in the history

books of NewClub but I’ll share the “cup” enjoyed a nice stay in the 404 for a few years…

It’s so much more than golf.

If you think NewClub is only about those prime tee times on the weekend at the exclusive

private clubs, well this might not be the best fit for you. If you’re open to chasing daylight at

Cobblestone because you’re in a heated match 1 down with two to play, scrambling out of a

greenside bunker with a 7i (because that’s all you have), taking friends/families to a pub near

downtown Atlanta because a friend owns it but you live north of the city or talking with a buddy

about their career and the next steps – this might be the place for you. Golf is what you make of

it, on and off the course. I’d encourage each of us to find what’s important to them about this

wonderful game and share it with others. If you love architecture, your people live in NewClub.

If you’re new to the game and looking to improve, your people live in NewClub. If you love

competition, then your people live in NewClub.

What is the lasting memory you’ll have to serve as captain of NewClub Atlanta – honored.

I’m so grateful Matt / Mark entrusted me and your vice-captains to lay out a foundation for the future of the club here

in Atlanta. All of the events, meetings, phone calls and texts hopefully delivered to each of you an

experience and community you enjoyed and will continue to enjoy in the future. I couldn’t be more

excited for the future of NewClub Atlanta under the leadership of our new Captain, Morgan Campbell.

Morgan will be a great leader of the chapter and community.

I’ll leave you with the same message I shared at the ’22 Winter Formal. Involvement is vital to not only

your enjoyment of NewClub but also the lifeblood of the society. Take advantage of the playing

opportunities hosted by the club and our members. If you’re going out to play, throw it on Slack and

bring a few others to join you. Play a match, nothing like getting the competitive juices flowing. Most

importantly, just get involved however you can or able to do with NewClub.

- Scott Ford (2023 Atlanta Captain)