FORE MAGAZINE: How and why did the golf club start?

Peoples: In the early 2000s, a longtime group of friends started getting really into golf, so I planned a trip for four of us to go out and play in Mesquite, Nevada. We had a blast, and when we came back we told our other friends. The next year we had 28 guys on the trip, and soon thereafter we had 80. One trip wasn’t enough for all the fun we were having, so we began putting together more local tournaments. Now we have six annual events and a few more golf trips. Looking back now, 18 years later, I laugh because I never really had any intentions of creating a golf club. It was something that just took off with a lot of early momentum.

What is the meaning behind the name of the of the golf club?

We didn’t have a name for the first few years. It was something we talked about, and many suggestions were made but nothing ever stuck. I knew it would have to do something with the fact that when you go on our big group trips, everyone is put on a team, and once you’re on that team, you’re on it for life.

Because of that, we have always had a good time at all of our tournaments and outings representing our teams. One day it finally occurred to me; this group of guys is all about the rivalry.

What type of people play in The Rivalry?

It’s such a great group of guys from all different professions, and there are so many characters that have made for so many funny stories and memories over the years. The Rivalry has a wide range of ability levels, from scratch all the way up to 30. But most importantly, they all love golf!

Without social media, how does The Rivalry continue to attract members?

I’ve never really been a social media guy, so we’re kind of off the radar. When this group started, my friends and I never intended for it to grow or attract new members or to make a profit. This group has grown from word of mouth. When friends bring in new guys, they know they have to be a good fit, love to play golf, have fun no matter what and get along with everyone.

What is the predominant philosophy of the club?

Good people, good times and hopefully some good golf!

How does the club foster its own community?

Over the years, The Rivalry has become a strong community network of golfers, and it’s really cool to see. For example, we’ve raised tens of thousands of dollars for charities through our golf tournaments. Outside of golf, we try to support each other in business, music, art, family and anything to help out our fellow golfers. We have had many guys who have had to move away for jobs or family reasons, but they still come back and play in our tournaments and when they do, it’s like they never left. As we have all grown older and busier with our lives, The Rivalry tournaments are what keep our social network of golfers going strong.