NJSGA Volunteer Spotlight: Don Davidson

KENILWORTH, N.J. – A few years ago, Don Davidson was at his local golf course, Heron Glen and noticed the New Jersey State Golf Association conducting a tournament there. Newly retired and looking for something more to do with his time, Davidson inquired about how to get involved with the NJSGA.

Having already spent some time officiating or marshaling for USGA events, including the U.S. Open and U.S. Women’s Open, Davidson got in touch with with Brad Bardon, Director of Championships, came aboard the NJSGA as a volunteer, and has been a friendly face at many events ever since.

Just like many of the other NJSGA volunteers, Davidson works hard at his craft. His knowledge on the Rules of Golf is solid and continues to grow. As a matter of fact, the Rules of Golf are more than meets the eye.

“It’s something you need to continue to learn everyday, and every year in order to get better,” Davidson said of the rules. “It’s like anything you do in life, the more you put into it, the better you get.

“The more you read, the more you learn, the better you are at officiating and learning the rules and being able to apply those rules in a game of golf.”

Davidson has been playing golf for over 50 years. One of the most critical pieces of the game is the rules, something he wanted to learn, and did so in notable fashion. Now, serving the game has taken precedence for him.

“Golf is a passion that a lot of people have. Volunteering is my way of giving back to the game of golf,” said Davidson. “To be able to help to run it, move it forward and help get more people involved in the organization and volunteering for golf.”

Davidson’s duties at NJSGA events are vast. One of his fondest memories was his first match as a referee, which came at the New Jersey Women’s Amateur Championship.

“You’re involved, you’re up close to the players and listening to them asking questions,” Davidson said of the experience. “It’s been really nice to do that."

Without these volunteers, much of what the NJSGA administers would not be possible. Beyond being an official or marshal, the NJSGA also offers volunteer opportunities with course rating. To learn more on how to get involved with the NJSGA, call the office at 908-241-GOLF (4653) or click here.