The 2006 Golf Association of Philadelphia Team Matches schedule is complete and posted at www.gapgolf.org. This year’s matches are set for three Sundays in April (9, 23, 30) with the Playoff and Challenges scheduled for Saturday, May 6.
This year record numbers in both participating clubs and teams were established. A total of 123 clubs will field 312 teams, up from the previous highs set in 2005 when 120 clubs and 304 teams participated. Each week teams compete in a four-team sectional round-robin format. A total of 12 players per team compete with six players staying home and six traveling to the opponent’s club. Clubs are placed in Divisions AA through F based on previous results. Playoff and Challenges determined the top divisions clubs for the following year.
The Interclub Matches, as the GAP Team Matches was originally called, served as the basis for the founding of the Association in 1897, and today, just like then, serves as a source of club pride.
It is believed that the GAP Team Matches are single-largest golfing team competition in the country.
"The GAP Team Matches is a perfect way to begin the season," said Mark Peterson, Executive Director of the Golf Association of Philadelphia. "It promotes a club unity and an enthusiasm unlike any other golfing experience.
"The Association is proud to call the Team Matches and the camaraderie, friendships and experiences it generates our own. The Matches, obviously, hold a special place in the history of the GAP and we are proud to continue that in 2006."
In 2005, Tavistock Country Club’s first team repeated as the overall champion. Tavistock CC looks for the first three-peat in the GAP Team Matches since Huntingdon Valley Country Club swept a trio of titles from 1983-85.
"It’s been a great source of pride at Tavistock CC," said Bob Arthur, a member of Tavistock’s first team who has been playing in the Team Matches for 30 years. He’s also played for Medford Lakes Country Club and Riverton Country Club in prior years. "Our members come out and watch the matches and support us. It’s a lot of fun.
"In what other format would I have had the chance to play against great players like Duke Delcher, Blaise Giroso and Gordon Brewer. It’s a great event."
The GAP Team Matches schedule features three clubs with five teams – Coatesville CC, Huntingdon Valley CC and Tavistock CC – as well as new GAP member clubs Raven’s Claw Golf Club, The Saint Annes Club and Wyoming Valley Country Club with squads. Sand Barrens Golf Club, Stonewall and The Club at Morgan Hill will also field teams for the first time.
Contact:
Martin Emeno
610-687-2340, ext. 27
