Golf match checklist and organising plan

A golf match runs smoothly when the competition details are fixed before players arrive. Confirm the course and tee time first, then manage registrations, dietary requirements, rules and starting groups. In the final week, prepare scorecards, prizes, signage and catering rather than leaving them for match day. This checklist also covers the reception area, refreshments, golf equipment and the checks that are easy to overlook before the first group tees off.

Organize this event for free with Lizzt

The plan, step by step

Every task with its own sub-checklist, in the order you'll actually need them.

Preparations

Set competition format
2 people
Reserve the golf course
Reserve the start time
Send invitations
2 people
Process registrations
Collect dietary requirements
Draw up competition rules
2 people
Order prizes
Book catering
Assign starter groups
2 people
Update participant list
Prepare scorecards
2 people
Print start list
Set up the prize table
2 people
Check the shopping list
Do the shopping
2 people
Check golf equipment
2 people
Email competition info
Fill coolers
2 people
Set out bananas and snacks
2 people
Set up the reception desk
2 people
Set up tables and chairs
3 people
Prepare registration materials
2 people
Set up the prize table
2 people
Check track markings
2 people
Sort scorecards
Set up the catering buffet
3 people

Event

Receive participants
3 people
Explain the starting rules
Send off the start groups
2 people
Refill drinks
2 people
Check the course route
2 people
Help participants by phone
Set out snacks
2 people
Register arrival scorecards
2 people
Check scores
2 people
Serve dinner buffet
4 people
Announce the winners
Present prizes
2 people

Aftercare

Collect leftover materials
2 people
Wash dishes
3 people
Clear tables and chairs
3 people
Clean golf equipment
2 people
Collect waste
2 people
Clean the clubhouse
3 people
Chill leftover food
2 people
Return materials
2 people
Publish results
Send thank-you message

What to bring

Grouped the way you'd shop for it, with quantities.

Furniture

Beer tablesqty 6
Chairsqty 50
Buffet tablesqty 3
Reception desk
Prize table
Waste binsqty 6

Sports equipment

Golf Ballsqty 150
Golf clubsqty 6
Golf teesqty 300
Pitchforksqty 40
Scorecard holdersqty 40
Golf umbrellasqty 6
Course signsqty 18
Barrier tapeqty 2

Tableware

Platesqty 60
Dessert platesqty 60
Cutlery setsqty 60
Water glassesqty 60
Wine glassesqty 50
Coffee cupsqty 50
Serving plattersqty 10
Serving spoonsqty 8

Equipment

Coolersqty 6
Coffee machinesqty 2
Hot traysqty 4
Calculatorsqty 2
Notice boardsqty 2

Kitchen

Thermos flasksqty 4
Cutting boardsqty 3
Chef’s knives and bread knivesqty 4
Serving utensilsqty 8
Ice packsqty 20

Decorations

Tableclothsqty 9
Bib numbersqty 40
Name badgesqty 50
Competition postersqty 4

Lighting

String lightsqty 4

Cleaning

Cleaning bucketsqty 3
Cleaning clothsqty 12

Catering

Groceries

Tips

Set the competition format and rules before sending invitations, then include the scoring method, handicap information and registration deadline in the competition email. Players should not have to ask how the match works on the morning.
Reserve the course and starting time early, then update the participant list as registrations arrive. Assign starting groups only after the list is stable, and print a spare copy of the start list for the reception desk.
Confirm dietary requirements before booking catering and plan the food service around the start schedule. Put bananas and snacks out before play, and fill the coolers so players can take refreshments without delaying their group.
Prepare scorecards, holders, calculators and golf equipment before match day. Check golf balls, clubs, tees, pitchforks and umbrellas, and inspect course signs, track markings and barrier tape rather than assuming the venue has everything ready.
Set up the reception desk, tables, chairs and prize table before the first arrival. Keep registration materials, the final participant list and prizes together, and place waste bins where food and drinks are served.

Frequently asked questions

How far in advance should I organise a golf match?: Reserve the golf course and tee time at least 6–8 weeks ahead, especially for a larger field or a weekend match. Send invitations once the format and date are confirmed, then close registrations about 10–14 days before play.
When should I prepare the golf match start list?: Prepare a draft after registrations close and assign the final starting groups 3–5 days before the match. Print the start list on the day before play and keep one updated copy at the reception desk.
How much food and drink do I need for a golf match?: Plan refreshments for the full playing field plus staff and volunteers, with food available before the first tee time and during the event. Put out bananas and snacks before play, fill coolers in advance, and confirm dietary requirements at least 7 days beforehand.
What should I check on golf match day?: Complete the final equipment, course and setup check at least 90 minutes before the first group starts. Check scorecards, golf balls, tees, pitchforks, umbrellas, signage, track markings, registration materials, catering and the prize table before players arrive.

Start this plan in Lizzt

Every task and item on this page, ready in your own event. Invite people, split the work, and see who has done what.