A Myrtle Beach golf trip is an annual tradition – a chance to tee it up with friends, laugh a lot, and create stories that live well beyond the life of the trip. But while golf never gets old, keeping the format of play fresh should always be part of the plan.

Some group leaders shuffle daily pairings, others stick with the same duos year after year, and a few let the scorecard dictate the lineups. But if your crew loves the buildup to the trip, here’s an idea worth trying: turn your week into a Ryder Cup-style showdown.

Each year, select two new captains — ideally friendly rivals in the same handicap range. Approximately a month before your trip, set a draft date and fire up a Google Meet or Zoom call. Captains will pick their squads live, while the rest of the group cheers, heckles, and critiques each pick. (No sulking if you’re a late-round choice – it’s all part of the fun.)

The draft is just the beginning. Two weeks before your trip, host a second call where captains reveal their pairings and daily order of play. This unveiling adds drama, sets the stage for two weeks of anticipation, and guarantees plenty of trash talk before anyone sets foot on the first tee.

The payoff? A trip-long competition that heightens every round, builds camaraderie, and takes the burden of pairings off the group leader’s shoulders.

So go ahead, pick your captains, schedule the draft, and get ready. Your Myrtle Beach golf trip is about to feel a whole lot bigger and a whole lot more fun.

(River Club and Tradition Golf Club pictured)