I discovered a whole new world of fun. Where you can meet new and interesting people, talk with celebrities, watch exciting events and be a part of the action. It's called volunteering.

I have been a high school sports official in multiple sports and have always enjoyed working with the youths of the community. I was a memeber of an organization that dealt with the youth in the community and we were responsible for many of the activities the youth enjoy today.

We started the boys and girls basketball program, the T-ball program, soccer, and flag football. All of these programs were run with the efforts of the volunteers in the organization as well as community members. What a rewarding feeling it is to look upon the faces of the youngsters having fun and know you were a part of it.

I am sure many of you have shared this experience. But the one volunteering experience I did just for me was equally gratifying. I even paid to do it, traveled 100 miles and spent my own money for hotel and meals. it was worth every penny.

I had the oportunity to work at a PGA Senior Golf Open Championship. Many of my fellow golfers thought I was a little touched to pay $100 to be allowed to work. They have no idea what they were missing.

Being a volunteer is not easy. Here are some of the requirements:

1. Be at the appointed place on time.

2. Dress in the proscibed attire.

3. Do not talk to or disturb the players during play.

4. No picture taking during play.

5. Attend all meetings.

They seem like simple rules but failure to follow them and you could be replaced.

Once you have submitted your application you are contacted about meeting times and you will be given a list of options to select what area you want to work. Once you have sent in your request you will be notified when your meeting will be held.

Some of the positions are:

1. Traffic= driving people to and from the venue, driving the shuttles, controlling the parking and entrances.

2. Marshalling= keeping people off the course, making walk thru areas for the players, controlling traffic at entrances

3. Hospitality= working the players lounge, food booths, aid stations, news rooms

4. Transportation= arranging for vehicles for players and families, provide transportation on premise for garbage details, resupply venues, first aid, Arranging the vehicles to be used.

Each department will have a manager who will cordinate with the volunteers. They will provide your schedule, and any equipment you will need.

So what is the fun part? You get the opportunity to have your picture taken with the pro's, you get to watch them play when you are not working, your only required to work so many hours.

You also get to enjoy the compnay of people from all walks of life, all area's of the country. people who volunteer come from many states to be a part of the fun. The other perks are your meals and drinks while working are free, you recieve shirt or hats that are momento's of your time spent.

So where do you go to sign up? If there is going to be an event in your area all you need do is contact the sponser and ask for an application. If it an event being held somewhere other than local be sure to send in early because many events fill up fast.