There are several contributing factors toward a WA Golf championship running smoothly, with an atmosphere that’s equal parts comfortable, welcoming, and well-conducted.  

Volunteers – whether starting, scoring, rules-officiating or scorekeeping – provide just that. Trina Arnott, for example, has lent her service (and her smile) to WA Golf competitors for the better part of 12 years, becoming a well-known presence at championship sites throughout Western Washington. 

Arnott, from Olympia, first volunteered at Salish Cliffs Golf Club in Shelton around that time, at the behest of one of her friends who had also done so. Although there were butterflies early on, she associates the experience with positive memories. 

“It was my first one,” she said of her nerves with a laugh. 

Over a decade later, in 2025, Arnott has already served in championships such as the Washington Champion of Champions, Women’s Amateur and Women’s Mid-Amateur, all staged at The Home Course, a friendly drive away from the capital city.  

Sheer enjoyment of being around players at any outing, as well as the event staff, are just part of what drives Arnott to continue to donate her time. 

“All the players are really nice, and thank me all the time,” Arnott said. 

After all, the work she provides is easy to notice from a distance. Cathy Kay, a member of the WA Golf Board of Directors, as well as occasional championship participant and volunteer rules official, has constantly had a front row seat to Arnott’s never-ending bonhomie. 

“I’m not sure I’ve ever seen Trina not with a smile on her face,” Kay said. “The trust that Washington Golf can have, no matter what position she’s working, I think you can have faith she’s representing the organization in the most friendly, professional and welcoming way.” 

Having been in a similar volunteering capacity, Kay echoed Arnott’s words of the premier players’ gratitude offering value. 

“Even if they’re not having a formal interaction with you, they’re still acknowledging the time that you’re giving and your contribution to elevating their experience in the event,” explained Kay. “I’ve gotten hand-written thank-you cards mailed to me at home from players, and that’s really amazing.” 

Most recently, Arnott, clipboard in hand, was positioned at The Home Course’s fourth hole to enter players’ scores. Just another championship of many she hopes to continue to serve, with each providing the same marquee golf that defines them. 

“I did see some good golf today,” she said of the Washington Women’s Amateur and Women’s Mid-Amateur fields. “So that’s always fun.” 

Whether or not she’ll still be seen on the course is hardly up for debate. 

“I hope so, for several years,” she said with a smile of her intentions to continue to wear the volunteer hat. 

Want to give back to the game? Become a volunteer at a WA Golf championship. Contact Brittany Kwon at [email protected] or visit the WA Golf website for more information.