The Ultimate USGA GHIN Rewind: A Golf Year in Review
As the calendar turns to December, golf enthusiasts eagerly await the annual USGA GHIN Rewind—a detailed recap of their golfing journey over the past year. This year was no different, with the 2025 recap revealing intriguing stats and memorable moments for golfers who maintain a USGA Handicap through the GHIN app. As we look back on our golfing adventures, the Golfweek editorial staff shares highlights from their year, offering insights into their favorite rounds, courses played, and the memorable experiences that intertwine with their love for the game.
Reflecting on the Year in Golf
The holiday season brings not only festivities but also a moment of reflection for avid golfers. The GHIN app compiles vast amounts of data—showing players their best and worst rounds, the hardest and easiest courses, and overall performance trends throughout the year. This annual review fosters a sense of community among golfers, allowing them to appreciate both the challenges and triumphs experienced on the fairways.
Tim Schmitt: Scenic Courses and Memorable Experiences
Tim Schmitt, managing editor at Golfweek, recounts his remarkable golfing experiences in 2025. Despite limited playing opportunities, his outings took him to extraordinary locations, including Portugal’s stunning Torre Course and Hawaii’s breathtaking Mauna Lani’s South Course. Among his most cherished memories was being the first non-member to play the new Els Club in Vilamoura, slated to host a PGA Tour Champions event soon. His journey highlights not just the beauty of the courses but also the joy of connecting with golf’s elite figures, like Darren Clarke at the Abaco Club in the Bahamas.
Todd Kelly: A Year of Family and Exploration
Todd Kelly, assistant managing editor, shared his increased golf outings, driven by his 19-year-old son’s burgeoning passion for the game. Spending quality moments at their neighborhood course and local driving range, Todd managed to play 24 courses in 2025, including the coveted Lake Powell Golf Course and the storied We-Ko-Pa in Arizona. A memorable trip to Montana allowed him to discover the unique Old Works Golf Course, where Jack Nicklaus used black slag instead of sand in the bunkers.
Adam Schupak: Nostalgia and Rainy Days
Senior writer Adam Schupak reflected on returning to his roots at Metropolis Country Club in New York after four long years. The round, characterized by persistent rain and solitude, reignited fond memories of learning the game. Despite the weather, Adam’s visit felt like a nostalgic journey back to his youth, reminding him of the joy and challenges that have shaped his golfing journey.
Family Fun with Beth Ann Nichols
Beth Ann Nichols, LPGA senior writer, focuses on the heartwarming aspect of golf—family. Much of her golfing experience centers around her 3-year-old son, Jordan, who’s learning the game. From backyard practice sessions to driving range visits, Beth shares the joy of watching her son grow through the sport. The upcoming purchase of a left-handed yard club demonstrates her anticipation of future family golf outings.
Golfing Adventures with Jason Lusk
Jason Lusk, Golfweek’s travel editor, outlined his busy year, playing 48 rounds across 24 courses. While capturing stunning visuals for Golfweek, Jason’s experiences included playing the new Scarecrow course at Gamble Sands with its architects. With rounds spanning 13 states and multiple countries, Jason reflects on how golf allows him to visit scenic destinations and share unforgettable moments with fellow enthusiasts.
Equipment Editor David Dusek: Goals and Challenges
For equipment editor David Dusek, setting goals was a driving force in 2025. While aiming for 35 rounds, challenging weather and other commitments limited his time on the course. Reflecting on this year, he anticipates making the most of 2026, driving his passion for golf forward while striving for improvement in his game.
Cameron Jourdan: A Dream Year
For Cameron Jourdan, covering amateur and collegiate golf, 2025 was a dream come true. Having played the illustrious Cypress Point—the No. 1 course in Golfweek’s Best Classic Courses ranking—Cameron relished in unforgettable moments and scenic beauty. His week spent playing Oregon’s esteemed Bandon Dunes Resort added to the year’s accolades, consolidating his position as a golf aficionado.
Nick Stavas: Personal Connections
Digital producer Nick Stavas provides a different perspective, sharing the importance of connections made while playing the game. Though limited in variety, his rounds with family and friends brought life to his golfing experiences in 2025. These shared moments reflect golf’s ability to strengthen existing bonds while forming new ones with fellow enthusiasts.
Embracing the Game with Averee Dovsek
From culinary delights to fantastic courses, golf opens doors to unique experiences for Averee Dovsek. Her highlight of the year at Bluejack National showcased not only superb golf but also culinary pleasure with scattered candy stations and lavish halfway houses. A heartwarming moment occurred when she gifted her father a complete set of new clubs, merging her passion for the game with a meaningful family gesture.
Cultivating Memories and Looking Ahead
As the 2025 golfing season comes to a close, each Golfweek staff member reflects on a year filled with memorable moments, significant connections, and picturesque courses. Whether it’s through family, nostalgia, or thrilling new adventures, the game of golf enhances their lives in varied ways. Looking to 2026, each writer remains hopeful for new challenges, experiences, and golf memories to cherish as they continue their journey on the fairways.
The USGA GHIN Rewind serves as a powerful reminder of the joy golf brings, both in the integrity of the game itself and the deep connections forged along the way. Here’s to more rounds, amazing courses, and the memories yet to be made as we step into another year of golf!
