MABGA Membership Requirements

Revised 02/14/2026

Join the Middle Atlantic Blind Golf Association (MABGA)

Like any group or club, there are certain requirements for membership in the Middle Atlantic Blind Golf Association (MABGA). If you’re blind or have low vision and have an interest in golf, we welcome you to join our community.

Membership Requirements

  1. You must live in the Middle Atlantic region, specifically in Philadelphia, the Philadelphia suburbs, South Jersey, Delaware, or the surrounding areas. All of our golf outings are hosted in this vicinity, and you will need to travel to the host golf courses to participate in events.
  2. You must be totally blind or legally blind as defined by the Social Security Administration.
  3. You must have an interest in playing or learning to play golf.
  4. You must be 18 years old or older.
  5. You will need to complete the following application Steps:

Becoming a Member

Once accepted, you will become a Prospective Member and may participate in MABGA activities during a trial period designed to help you become familiar with our organization, fellow members, and coaches in a supportive and welcoming environment. During this time, you are encouraged to take part in our scheduled events, which include outings, tournaments, and meetings held throughout the season. These events welcome golfers of all skill levels and provide structured and social opportunities to improve your game, gain meaningful on-course experience, and build lasting friendships within the blind golf community.

To become an Active Voting Member, prospective members must be approved by a vote of the current active membership at the Fall General Meeting. Members are responsible for coordinating attendance and arranging transportation with their coach for all events.

New Member Participation Requirement

To promote safety, preparedness, and an enjoyable experience for all participants, prospective new members must complete two rounds of golf or two instructional lessons before joining official MABGA outings.

Many individuals new to MABGA are also new to the game. These initial rounds or lessons provide an opportunity to learn basic swing fundamentals, understand course etiquette and safety expectations, and become comfortable working with a coach in a playing environment.

If a new member does not have their own set of golf clubs, the organization will not issue a set until the required two rounds of golf or two instructional lessons have been completed. This policy ensures members demonstrate a commitment to learning the game and receive basic instruction in swing technique, course etiquette, and safety. New golfers who show a strong desire to be part of MABGA will receive a donated set of golf clubs once this requirement has been satisfied, allowing them to continue their development with the proper equipment.

Participants must also be able to maintain an appropriate pace of play. MABGA’s continued partnerships with host golf courses depend on our groups keeping up with the course’s pace guidelines. Consistent slow play can negatively impact other golfers and may jeopardize future invitations to return. Proper preparation helps ensure new members are ready to participate confidently while respecting fellow players and host facilities.

Finding a Coach

Before you can begin playing golf, you will need to find a coach. A coach is an individual who:

  • Provides transportation to and from the golf courses
  • Acts as your playing partner in the alternate shot format as defined by the Rules of Golf
  • Assists you in whatever way is necessary for you to play golf

In blind golf, the coach is an essential partner and a key part of the team. Responsibilities typically include assisting with alignment, club selection, reading greens, describing course layout and hazards, tracking the ball, and maintaining safety awareness throughout the round. Coaches also help support proper pace of play and reinforce course etiquette. Through consistent guidance and encouragement, they play an important role in helping the golfer build confidence, develop skills, and enjoy the game.

While MABGA can offer guidance in identifying potential coaches, members are encouraged to secure their own whenever possible. Coaches are often friends, family members, coworkers, or community volunteers who are willing to learn the role and grow alongside the golfer. Many members maintain relationships with more than one coach to ensure availability for outings, tournaments, and other scheduled events throughout the season.

Membership Dues

To remain an active member of MABGA, annual membership dues must be paid. Membership dues help support the organization’s programs, equipment needs, administrative expenses, and special events throughout the season.

2026 Dues:

2026 Dues for All Members: $10

Dues are assessed on a calendar-year basis and help ensure that MABGA can continue providing quality golfing opportunities and resources for blind and low-vision golfers in our region.

Payment Options:

Contact Us

If you’re interested in joining MABGA or would like additional information about membership, please contact our Membership Co-Chairs. They are happy to answer your questions and assist you through the application process.

Phil Harrison
Valdez Thomas
Phone: 215 745 2323
Email: membership@mabga.org

Join MABGA and discover the joy of playing golf while connecting with a supportive community of blind and low-vision golfers. We look forward to welcoming you!

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