A fixture at Maryland State Golf Association (MSGA) tournaments, Bill Kost’s journey as a volunteer with the MSGA is a story of dedication, lifelong learning, and the strong sense of camaraderie that permeates the organization.
Kost’s first foray into volunteering dates back to 2002. “I went out to a tournament and just followed a match around Northwest Park. The referee was a former Tournament and Rules Director, and he eventually asked why I was there. He gave me his card and called me later to come on out. My first time out, I was just a spotter. The second time, with the help of a radio, I was a Rules Official,” Kost recalls.
His path to volunteering wasn’t accidental. Kost’s interest was piqued further at the U.S. Junior Amateur at Columbia Country Club in 2003, and he spent time immersing himself in the rules and connecting with officials. “I got my biggest start with the Washington Metropolitan Golf Association when I was asked to be on the Board of Directors. I also did course ratings at that time. While also volunteering with MSGA, I was asked to be on the Regional Affairs Committee with the USGA, and then joined the Junior Championship Committee.” He even served briefly as Treasurer for the Middle Atlantic Golf Association.
With over 20 years in the role, Kost says his most memorable moments are the ones he is able to learn from. “It’s always the rulings you don’t get right. I’ve had very few that ended up being Committee Error, and I feel I’ve learned most from them. I also discovered that by far, the golfers are honest, and I’ve only had two instances of cheating in over 20 years of rules experience.”
Similarly, Kost’s favorite part of volunteering is the opportunity to teach and learn. “You get to teach players some of the subtleties of the rules, and also get to watch some very skilled players. It is a continuous learning experience, and the players also teach me different ways to approach different situations.”
He brings a level-headed approach to the spirit of the game as well. “I see some players who continue to believe that they are entitled to a perfect lie. Golf has an element of luck to it, and you must adapt your play accordingly. Sometimes, the smart play is to take the penalty.”
For those thinking about getting involved, Kost provided this advice: “Don’t be afraid to dive in. The other officials are very generous with their knowledge, and having a radio is a great equalizer. Read the rule book, and volunteer.” He also dispelled a common misconception about the role: “We are here to help more than we are here to penalize. Almost every tournament, several players and spectators come up and thank us for the job we do.”
Reflecting on his experiences, Kost said, “I love being at tournaments and connecting with others. I’ve run into officials and players all over the country, and now I even know two guys on the PGA Tour. It’s like six degrees of Kevin Bacon, you will meet someone who knows similar people.”
When it comes to the MSGA, Kost holds the organization in high regard. “Maryland State Golf Association runs some of the best tournaments I’ve seen. They are organized, and the setups are well thought out.”
When asked what keeps him engaged after decades of service, Kost replied, “It is very rewarding and has a great social aspect to it as well. I find that I identify myself by it. I spent 37 years working for the Federal Government, but when I meet someone, I tell them that I am a Rules Official, not a budget analyst.”
In summary, Bill Kost is a shining example of the spirit of volunteerism and the community that drives Maryland golf forward. Through his dedication, he has not only enriched the tournament experience for countless players but has helped foster a community rooted in learning and camaraderie.
As a non-profit organization, the MSGA relies heavily on the support of volunteers and continues to grow through the generosity of these individuals. Volunteers assist the staff in providing the highest level of service to golfers and golf clubs in Maryland. Interested in getting involved with the MSGA? Please visit our Volunteer webpage to learn more.
MSGA Mission
To serve, grow, and advance the game of golf in Maryland and the District of Columbia.
