It may have something to do with the new surroundings and trying to fit in.  I would suggest trying to meet as many people as possible and finding like players to join.  It may relax your thoughts knowing that your new group plays the same way.

I hope to join a private club some day, so I can't speak to that yet, but I've definitely had my fair share of jitters.  

My old Boss was a golf pro, and played D1 golf.   When I played with him for the first time I was so nervous I thought I was going to puke on the tee box.  It was a long par 5, and I'd played the course a bunch.  I knew I couldn't reach it in 2 anyway so I just swing at 75% to make sure I didn't duff it.  I laid up to my 100 yard distance and just lightly swing an extra club to make sure I made good contact.  It helped me get through the first couple of holes until I loosened up.

If you don't feel comfortable swinging easy- maybe try to sneak in a really early or late round by yourself, don't bring a score card, and just play some golf.  If you screw up, take a mulligan; take two, who cares.  Just get out there and hit some good shots to prove that you can still golf.  Next time you get out there with some fellow members, try to remember those good shots you just took.

I'm a 9 too, and sometimes I just suck.  I've shot in the mid 70's and I've had some rounds in the 90's.  I can't explain either great or terrible rounds, and usually I'm in the low 80's.  Neither of us are going to break a course record (for now)or join the Tour, so just have fun.  If you're playing private golf, you're living the dream!

good advice. thank you!

David

I was lucky that i knew a few guys already at the club so was immediately  involved,  my first 4 rounds in a $$ game...stakes were not comfortable for me...i am not doing that again!! i am hoping it was not the new club but the new "game" that had me so nervous.  i am playing w/ an older gentlemen this saturday who i have not met and i am excited to play golf again. the last few weeks have not been fun so i am hoping meeting new people and getting out of the $$ game will make golf fun again b/c that is what it is supposed to be!!

thanks Ryan.

David

I always play better for a little bit of $$, but not more than I'm comfortable forking over.

Good luck this weekend, hopefully it'll go well.