For nearly two decades, the Tiburon 9-Hole Women's Golf League has been about much more than scorecards and birdies. Founded with the help of Melinda Peterson, the league will celebrate its 20th anniversary next year and continues to bring women together through golf, friendship and giving back.

Today, the league boasts 91 members, with an average of 70 women teeing off each week. Open to golfers of all skill levels, the league welcomes a diverse group of women, and members aren't assigned to permanent foursomes, making it easy to meet new friends throughout the season.

Giving back is also a cornerstone of the league. Each week, members participate in a Charity Challenge benefiting Saving Grace, an organization they've supported for eight years, contributing nearly $3,500 to its mission. 

Beginning in August, members enjoy five weeks of tournament play, along with two themed fun days and opportunities to serve on one of five committees. Janet Nemecek, who joined the league in 2007, serves alongside Melinda on the committee that coordinates the league's end-of-season prizes.

"Melinda has done a great job keeping us organized," Janet says. "The friendships that you make are the reason I come back week after week."

The league has become a family tradition as well. Melinda's 10-year-old grandson, Paul, enjoys golfing with his grandmother and meeting new people while also participating in the Drive, Chip and Putt program at other golf courses in the region.

And when the season wraps up, members can head home with more than memories—including one of Melinda's homemade jars of pineapple jelly, a sweet reminder that this league is truly a community of friends. The end of year is in October with a golf outing, lunch and awards to follow. It’s a great day! Come join this friendly, social and fun group of ladies!

Interested in joining? Annual dues are just $35, and you do not need to be a Tiburon Golf Club member to participate. Contact Melinda Peterson at jcputter@cox.net or call the Tiburon Golf Club for more information.