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EDITOR'S LETTER
Gains and Losses
What's Inside:
The past few weeks have seen some terrible news in Michigan’s golf circles, with the passing of radio legend Frank Beckmann, arguably the biggest promoter of golf in the Great Lakes State – and the fire that ripped through and destroyed the iconic Oakland Hills clubhouse. Yet in those two losses we can share some great words of remembrance and an early comeback story for readers. On the new ‘gains’ in the industry, 28 high school caddies recently received full-ride scholarships to MSU and U-M through the Evans Scholar caddy program, and we take a look at all the renovations at Treetops with its $5 million investment into one of the original Up North resorts.
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We also celebrate four new inductees into the high school golf coaches Hall of Fame who dedicated their time to students, and we have two stories about Florida golf options wrapped around the PGA Tour and the Detroit Tigers Spring Training camp. This and so much more. Please enjoy; and thank you for coming along for the drive.
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Tom Lang Editor and Publisher
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EVANS SCHOLARS
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28 Evans Scholars Chosen from Michigan Full rides to MSU or U-M This coming fall, 28 young men and women out of 315 nationwide who received Evans Scholarships will pack the van and move to campus at either Michigan State or the University of Michigan to begin a 4-year trek through college, all with free tuition and housing. The estimated value for each is $120,000, provided by the nation’s largest privately funded scholarship program, the Evans Scholars Foundation. Currently, a record 1,070 golf caddies are enrolled at 21 universities across the country, with more than 11,500 having already graduated as Evans Scholars via the program founded in the 1930s by famous Chicago amateur golfer Charles ‘Chick’ Evans, Jr. The selections each year are based on caddies having: a strong caddie record, excellent
Daniel Wisely: West Bloomfield Caddied 6 years at Orchard Lake CC “It’s in my blood,” he said. “My grandfather managed the men’s locker room of Oakland Hills Country Club for five decades. My dad followed suit when he started caddying at age 11. Years later, I wandered into the Club’s caddie training at age 12. I had found myself at the greatest job in the world. I was surrounded by great people and endless stories.”
academics, demonstrated financial need and outstanding character.
In the fall, Daniel will begin college as an Evans Scholar at the University of Michigan, where he will study secondary education and
Here is a look at three Michigan students’ personal story:
English. Continues on next page >>
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EVANS SCHOLARS
Anna Rimatzki, Livonia Caddied for 5 years at Meadowbrook Country Club
Harrison Bullotta, Rochester Hills “My caddie master, Jeff Coleman, was the best first boss any goal-oriented young person could dream up,” Anna said. “Three years into my role caddying at the Club, Mr. Coleman passed away suddenly. To this day, I have never seen more people in a funeral home. He has inspired me to become the kind of person who can fill a room with that kind of love and respect.”
Caddied for three years at Oakland Hills Country Club, and one year at Great Oaks Harrison and his brother were raised by their single mother, who he credits as “the reason I am the man I am today.”
Before his passing, Jeff made Anna the youngest captain caddie in Meadowbrook history.
“Caddying is something that has changed my life and taught me to always help out, even when it isn’t asked of you,” says Harrison. “The job has helped my communication skills and confidence grow tremendously.”
In the fall, Anna will begin college as an Evans Scholar at the University of Michigan, where she will study neuroscience and pre-medicine.
In the fall, Harrison will begin college as an Evans Scholar at the University of Michigan, where he will study biology and pre-medicine.
Scholarship funds come mostly from contributions by nearly 35,000 supporters across the country, who are members of the Evans Scholars Par Club program. Evans Scholars Alumni donate more than $17 million annually, and all proceeds from the BMW Championship, the penultimate PGA TOUR Playoff event in the PGA TOUR’s FedExCup competition, are donated to the Evans Scholars Foundation. In 2022, the BMW Championship will be held at Wilmington Country Club in Wilmington, Delaware, from Aug. 16-21.
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Here are all 28 Michigan Evans Scholars:
To learn more about the WGA and ESF, visit www.wgaesf.org.
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NEW GOLFER SUITES
Island Resort Updates Cater to Golfers
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“Over the past ten years and with the addition of Sage Run, we have become a very popular
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula golf destination offers new luxury lodging with golfers in mind Island Resort & Casino, located just outside of Escanaba in Michigan’s scenic Upper Peninsula, offering one of the largest casinos and awardwinning Sweetgrass and Sage Run golf courses, recently completed its $33 million new hotel expansion and is excited to start hosting golfers this season. Sweetgrass just won the NGCOA National Golf Course of the Year award – and now the new hotel tower – connected to the south end of the resorts Palm Tower, features 138 guest rooms and suites, with some special attention for golfers who visit.
destination for golfers. Adding these new rooms and golf suites will be an exciting lodging option and make their overall experience that much more enjoyable,” said Tony Mancilla,
General Manager of Island Resort & Casino. “This expansion has been a fantastic addition for us. It was developed out of necessity. Our demand and backlog of guests, many of whom have been golfers made us realize how much we needed new rooms and another high-end dining option. These new golf suites will continue to elevate our status as a premier golf destination.” Guest rooms also include specialized spa
The expansion provides an added perk for golfers with new expansive golf suites. The
suites featuring a luxury experience with hot tubs and a unique option of getting in-room massages. The new Horizons Steakhouse, located on the top floor featuring some of the best views in the region, will be a great
spacious 675 sq ft suites are complete with a King, double queen and a common area, all with
gathering place for golf groups after a day on Sweetgrass and Sage Run. Incredibly
incredible views of the Sweetgrass Golf Course – perfect for foursomes looking for added space and a fun environment.
affordable packages ranging from 1-4 nights lodging and special golf rates are a can’t miss. Visit www.islandresortgolf.com.
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TREETOPS COVER STORY
Treetops' Investment Increases Golfing Fun
By Tom Lang Lots of awards are handed out every year for golf course resorts voted best in class, best value for families, best design, best pace of play, best this best that. If anyone created a category of ‘Easiest to Access’ I think it would be Treetops Resort in Gaylord, hands down. Michigan is blessed beyond measure to have golf courses and resorts ranking right up there with
the finest nationally – that includes Treetops in some voting. But if you stop and think about it, often the top resorts are in very rural areas that are pretty far away from those freeways that allow super easy access. Treetops is a mere 4 miles off the main freeway artery of northern Michigan, I-75. Almost no two-lane road travel is needed to reach the front gate. In summary, close enough to be really easy to reach in a timely
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ask, ‘what did we play yesterday, did we play that one twice?’ You’re not going to do that here, because they’re all distinctly different. The collection of quality is fantastic. And we’ve had a par 3 course long before it was cool to do it.” The year 2022 is a milestone anniversary year for four of the five distinct golf courses at Treetops.
Jones Masterpiece
manner, but far enough away to feel the peaceful seclusion other remote properties offer as well. And once you are there, you’ll see why Treetops has also earned its share of those ‘best of’ awards. “We think the collection of golf course designers, the variety is great here,” said Treetops general manager Barry Owens. “Sometimes you go to a place with multiple golf courses (there’s 81 holes at Treetops), and you
The resort’s original golf course, the Jones Masterpiece, will celebrate its 35th full season anniversary. It’s downhill par 3 (No. 6) – looking out over the Sturgeon River Valley – was the impetuous for the name Treetops since the tops of trees is about all you see for miles from the tee box. Threetops and the Tom Fazio Premier are both 30 years old this season. The Tradition is 25 years old, and recently went through a tree-clearing program to open up the layout even more. The Rick Smith Signature Course is the ‘odd-man out’ for milestones at age 29, but it’s one of my all-time favorites. It was also the setting for the Pure Michigan “14 Clubs” national TV campaign that won numerous travel awards. “Many of our courses are very conducive to families playing, especially The Tradition,” said director of golf Kevin McKinley. “That course was designed to be walkable, and it was originally designed with a links style in mind. Rick Smith did a great job with it. But this year we leveled a ton of trees to make it really a links-style design. It’s an open atmosphere, Continues on next page >>
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TREETOPS COVER STORY kind of a shorter golf course and much more tame. I have several kids myself and we’ll go out on a Sunday afternoon, my entire family and have a little scramble event.” The management and staff at Treetops doesn’t question what their motives are when travelers come to visit, as Owens explains: “We’re not making widgets in manufacturing. We serve people. And we’re not going to get everything right all the time, but we’re going to do whatever we do with a smile, and if something’s not right we’ll fix it. There’s pride in the culture of our staff and their willingness to serve.” Fixing It to the Tune of $5 million: Treetops spent over $5 million in property and building upgrades the past two years, and $18 million since 2014. During the most recent time frame the money went into:
Smith Signature
Turf equipment Golf carts (brand new electric at the Jones in 2022) Lodging room upgrades Full renovation of Chalets (to be complete later this year) Kitchen overhauls New roads HVAC upgrades in all lodging rooms Winter Recreation upgrades
Smith Tradition
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TREETOPS COVER STORY I recently spent a night in the main lodge and found excellent improvements. The look and colors of the outside of both lodges was a huge improvement over the past. The interior rooms have totally redone bathrooms with modern tile, glass and hardware upgrades. The kitchenette was updated, the HVAC system was perfect, and the beds were very nice. New modern wallpaper adorned the walls, and the new TV was perfect for watching the Super Bowl. Owens said that all the improvements are a natural part of doing business and making capital improvements. He is most excited about the major redesign in their 12 Chalets (two and three-bedroom units, 30 bedrooms total) that should be finished by end of summer. Oh, the Golf: Treetops puts great effort into making the golf experience great for men, women and kids. “We don’t want to be just seen as just a place where all the buddies come, exclusive of ladies or families or anything like that,” McKinley said.
“We’ve created events like the Couples Jamboree to get couples doing things together, and that’s very popular. They get to know each other and usually about half of the couples are from out of state. So, we have travelers and they come back most every year.” Other events include the Tough-man/Princess tournament at season’s end. Golfers play one course under the toughest possible conditions, then the next day another course under the easiest. The Pepsi Charity Challenge is a staple event in place since year one. It sells out at 456 golfers with a waiting list most years. There are two Ryder Cup style events: USA vs. Canada, and the Border War Cup between Michigan and Ohio residents. “We realized our facilities and our golf courses are very favorable to Ryder Cup golf,” McKinley said. “For one because you never have to repeat the same golf course. You can play your alternate shot matches on the Signature for example and play your four-ball matches on the Fazio and play your singles matches on the Masterpiece. It gives people a different look every day.”
Jones Masterpiece
McKinley has been honored for his great work supporting active-duty military and Veterans,
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Smith Signature
for Michigan’s largest Patriot Days event each Labor Day weekend to support Folds of Honor Foundation. He doesn’t come from a military background, but a life-changing moment changed the way he uses golf to serve those who
Play Where the Pros Play: “Another sense of pride we have here is the great talent that played in our Par 3 Shootout (from
first served us.
1999-2006), Owens said. “The number of majors won by those who have played here is 53 majors. Mickelson, Nicklaus, Palmer, Couples, Floyd,
“We raise all the money we can (on Labor Day weekend), but it’s become more about an event
Stadler, Andy North, Lee Janzen. It’s easier to name the guys who haven’t won majors; just two of them.”
that gives these men and women solace for a weekend, and treats them like rock stars,” he said. “That’s more of my goal recently.” He also created Military League Night for locals, every Wednesday all summer long. It’s nine holes of golf and/or a clinic. There’s a one-time low fee, and sponsors pick up other costs. There were 96 participants last year.
This proud moniker is something golfers might be hearing more of soon. Owens said it will become a new advertising tagline: “Everybody says they have world-class golf. Why don’t you just ask our 53 major winners?” Good idea.
DRIVE, CHIP AND PUTT REGISTRATION
Bentley Coon
No golf experience is required to participate in the qualifying rounds. The lifetime memories can be immeasurable. MICHIGAN LOCAL QUALIFIERS May 23, Boulder Pointe Golf Club June 4, Harbor Shores Golf Club June 6, Red Run Golf Club June 8, Rouge Park Golf Course June 10, The Pines Golf Course June 12, Foundation Golf Center
Registration for 2022-2023 Drive, Chip and Putt qualifying is now open on www.DriveChipandPutt.com.
June 18, Currie Municipal Golf Course
The youth golf initiative is open to any boy or girl between the ages of 7-15. Focused on learning and mastering the three basic skills in golf, the free program can be accessed in all 50 states. Local qualifying begins in May at more than 350 sites nationally - the most in the event’s 8-year history. It will continue throughout the
June 28, Marquette Golf Club
summer. Entrants will play in girls’ and boys’ divisions in four age categories, with scoring centered around skill development in driving, chipping and putting. Online registration makes it easy for parents to sign up their golfer and find a local qualifier near them. Bentley Coon of Homer, MI qualified last year and will be at Augusta National next month competing in the 10-11 age group.
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June 25, Ferris State University Katke Golf Course
July 8, The Orchards Golf Club Juyl 9, Bay Meadows Family Golf Course July 11, Milham Park Golf Club July 12, Boyne Mountain Resort July 19, Pheasant Run Golf Club July 23, Fox Hills Golf and Banquet July 25, Boulder Creek Golf Club July 28, Ironwood Links Golf Course July 31, Lincoln Hills Golf Club
SUB-REGIONALS Aug 5, The Orchards Golf Club Aug 28, Mines Golf Course
MICHIGAN NEWS AND NOTES
Hemp Wood Putter Raffle
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says anyone would love to say they have one of the first hemp wood putters ever made. He plans to travel to multiple golf shows across Michigan to display his CBD products for golfers and sell raffle tickets for the putter.
2021 Rocket Mortgage Classic Generated $1.35 Million for Charities
A very unique piece of golf equipment will be raffled off early this golf season – a putter made completely out of Hemp wood. Proceeds will go a couple of different charities, one of them being the kids golf program at 517 Golf Group based in mid-Michigan. CBD Store of Michigan in Fremont together with Blue Lake CBD is raffling the putter for $10 per ticket. Its value has been placed at $1,000 due to the collectability of the club. Tickets can be purchased at www.bluelakecbd.com or www.cbdstoremi.com or at CBD Store of Michigan, 37 East Main St., Fremont, MI 49412 Hemp wood has a unique grain and is very sturdy. It is also much more renewable than typical tree wood, according to store owner Rod Glupker, who also indicated 4 crops can be grown in a year vs. one tree spanning many decades. It can also be used for textiles (clothing). Hempcrete is fire resistant, pest resistant, energy efficient and strong. Glupker
More than $1.35 million was raised in 2021 through Detroit’s third-annual PGA TOUR event to support local nonprofits; $805,000 of these funds were directed and invested with community partners supporting the event’s “Changing the Course” initiative, which is working to end Detroit’s digital divide. At the inception of the Changing the Course initiative, Detroit was rated the least connected large city in America. With partners Rocket Mortgage, Microsoft, the United Way for Southeastern Michigan and others, more and more Detroiters are gaining access to the internet. In 2020, roughly 40 percent of Detroit households were digitally included. Today that number has grown to 67.5 percent. “We are well on our way to realizing the dream of every Detroiter having access to the internet, technology and digital literacy training within a 10-minute walk of their home,” said Joshua Edmonds, Chief Advocate for Connect 313 and the City of Detroit’s Director of Digital Inclusion. “The Rocket Mortgage Classic is more than just a funding partner; they are a thought partner. Together we work to change lives through digital inclusion every day.”
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THE GREAT VOICE, FRANK BECKMANN
Remembering a Radio (and Humanitarian) Legend: Frank Beckmann
By Tom Lang Most people know the tagline for WJR 760 News Radio in Detroit: The Great Voice of the Great Lakes. Most would agree that Frank Beckmann was the great voice of that great voice and one of the fiercest supporters of the game of golf Michigan has ever known. The golfing world lost this gem of a larger-than-life man, Feb. 13, passing while in Hospice care. He was 72.
Beckmann did it all in sports radio for over 48 years. Lions’ games. Tigers’ games. Michigan football for decades. Beckmann also had his own daily morning talk show in more recent times on WJR, with a conservative bent. Most people knew Frank in all those roles because they heard his great voice, and great mind, when tuning in. Yet some would say his love of golf was the
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strongest. And what is probably less widelyknow statewide was Beckmann’s immense support for charitable causes, and using golf to raise millions of dollars, often quietly out of the broader public eye. His final round of golf was last August as the long-time spokesperson and host of the annual March of Dimes Golf fundraiser. Below are a collection of thoughts from those who knew Beckmann better than I. Lew LaPaugh, President of the Ted Lindsay Foundation, for Autism research: “Frank's heart was bigger than the man. He never turned people down. He led by example. After the passing of Shawn Burr (who was our golf outing's Live Auctioneer), Frank took on this challenge and was concerned if he could fill the ‘shoes of Shawn.’ “Frank was so determined to do what he could to raise the most money for our foundation, he would run over to the silent auction tables and bid on several items which he later donated to other charities. If an item was slow to get an opening bid Frank would step up and make the bid himself to get things moving. “His interest in the Autistic community was also spurred on by his daughter, Tori, and her therapy degree for Autism. He never turned down a request to work with us through the years. It is always sad when a friend leaves us but even more so when a 'giant of a man' for his family, profession and community passes.” Bill Hobson, Michigan Golf Live TV and Radio: “I could write pages of praise for Frank about the tireless passion he showed for all things golf and
charitable causes, because he often connected those two in very effective ways. His willingness to donate time, talent, and treasure to the things he believed in was an inspiration for me and so many others. “I was a Frank Beckmann fan dating all the way back to the days of SportsWrap on WJR, when a nervous young caller (me) from Clio dialed in to try and stump the host and win an ‘American League Red Book.’ Well, the host won...but still sent me the prize and I was a Beckmann backer ever since. “Little did I know that we would become friends through our love of golf and radio, with Frank sharing very encouraging words about my work, even though I was reaching out to praise him for something I heard him say on air. From this fan of the Wolverines, golf, and many of the same worthwhile causes...thank you to the Beckmann family for sharing Frank with all of us.” Continues on pg. 21 >>
WWW.MIGOLFJOURNAL.COM Brain Cairns, PGA professional and 2015 Sr. PGA Professional of the Year: “Every time we got together it was about cigars and good times, and just all the funny things that happen on a golf course. It never mattered how bad he was playing, because he was so excited to hit the next shot, and only a real golfer feels like that. And it’s not just about golf, but everything in life… I really respect people like that.” Cairns said Beckmann had the map of the state of Michigan ‘branded’ on his calf, a tattoo. “He was so proud of Michigan, and of Detroit. He would stand up for it. He really lived it and preached it. Who’s going to carry that torch next? It’s going to be tough to fill. A big hole in our lives for sure.” Bernie Friedrich, Boyne Resorts: “Frank’s love for the game of golf was exceeded only by his love for his WJR listeners. Our business relationship through WJR developed into a friendship through his many trips to our resorts and BOYNE Golf courses. He enjoyed every round.
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“One of our favorite memories was Frank extolling the virtues of Michigan golf on the Links/Quarry course at Bay Harbor Golf Club with Matt Ginella from the Golf Channel. His loss is tragic and his enthusiasm for Michigan and the game of golf will be greatly missed.” Barry Owens, GM at Treetops: “His support of golf in the state of Michigan and the Pure Michigan Campaign; it was wonderful to have somebody with that influence just talking about golf, and golf in Michigan. He was obviously passionate about the game himself and played every chance he got. “But what made Frank such a good journalist is he was very curious. He found out I’m an amateur beekeeper and he became infatuated with that. He visited the hives at my house and got stung once. And whenever I got the wonderful opportunity to be on his radio show his first questions would be, ‘how are the bees doing?’ “He will be missed, that’s for sure.”
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THE MASSIVE OAKLAND HILLS FIRE
Some solace can be found by the comeback of another historic clubhouse fire at Western G&CC in Redford Township four years ago By Tom Lang This August would have been the 100th anniversary of when the Oakland Hills clubhouse first opened, in the late summer of 1922. Now it’s a skeleton of charred wooden walls and timbers, with a collapsed in roof, after the massive fire that brought grownups to tears on a cold, windy Feb. 17 day. But according to Oakland Hills’ president Rick Palmer, and friends of members there, those tears quickly dried up and changed into a driving will to come back stronger than ever.
“I can report that at our board meeting this past Saturday morning (2 days after the fire), the board unanimously made an easy decision to determine that the restored, rebuilt clubhouse will be a replica of what the iconic clubhouse was before the fire,” Palmer said to several media which included MI Golf Journal on Feb. 21. “Actually, our membership and the national golf community really made that a very easy decision for us to make because of the outpouring of how special it is. Even our golf course architect, Gil Hanse, who wants our clubhouse to match his beautiful restoration
WWW.MIGOLFJOURNAL.COM work. So, I can conclusively report that.” The largest portion of the clubhouse that faces the golf course is modeled after 1st President George Washington’s Mount Vernon.
The History is Not the Building, it’s Inside the Building: While the building was nearly 100 years old itself, the golf history that people most worried about perhaps being lost was all the artifacts inside the clubhouse like trophies, paintings, letters from presidents, photos, wooden golf clubs and more. The building was quite literally a golf museum spanning a century. “We have received and recovered several historical items,” Palmer said. “The process of assessing the condition of those items have not been concluded at this time and is ongoing. We’re hoping to retrieve more. We have several, but our restoration company is in the process with the insurance carrier of assessing whether they will be fully recoverable or restored.”
Clubhouse view from 18th Fairway
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“Fire crews came in and announced to us that they had a window and (asked) where were the memorabilia at, and they kept going in and out of the facility, and actually passing it out to our employees, who formed kind of a bread line and loaded (the items) into a van. So, there are a lot of our valuable items that got recovered.”
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THE MASSIVE OAKLAND HILLS FIRE
But we cannot disregard the building’s place in history either. It was the pillar for hosting the
again, like the original layout from 1918 that at the time Ross said God intended to be a golf
people who competed in 14 major championships, including six U.S. Opens, two U.S Amateurs and three PGA Championships,
course
plus the 2004 Ryder Cup. As most golfers know, the famed South Course was closed for almost two years to undergo a full restoration and only reopened for play late in the 2021 season. What course designer Gil Hanse and associates did was re-expose grand views across the natural landscape that had been overrun by trees the past couple generations. It also revealed the true features of the land where Donald Ross first designed the routing. One of those strongest features was a view
Outreach from the Community: The club heard from people all across the globe, but the most relevant efforts we’ve come to expect came from those close to home.
Hole Number 7
of the clubhouse from almost any point on the course – never available through all the former trees – sitting high on the hill at the west end of the property, with a setting sun behind it bringing out magical views of history. Gil Hanse commented recently via email that views of the clubhouse were involved during restoration decision-making, but not the building itself. “We reacted to the scale of the building to restore Ross' scale of the course," he wrote. Sightlines across the land became dramatic
“The first help that comes to mind is not from a club,” Palmer said. “We got outreach from the great folks at Barton-Mallow who (on the very next day) made their headquarters available and configured 25 workspaces, technology, and all the things that welcome us as long as we need it – which is the miracle of this – we were fully operational from an administrative perspective,” so soon after the fire. In addition to the physical space, “their employees welcoming our employees has been really overwhelming. They know they’re
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displaced; they lost their place of work, they’ve
Ross design like Oakland Hills – and away
made us feel like the Oakland Hills family, and we’re home. So, we’re dubbing it officially (that) we’re at ‘Oakland Hills Southfield.’”
from where the wooden structure began as a residential home with several additions built on.
Secondly, Palmer said all area clubs have reached out to make facilities for planned events
“I remember waking up early that June morning and heard a reference to a big fire …
and dining open to Oakland Hills members as well.
and they had Western (Golf and Country Club) on TV, and I thought oh my God,” said
Then on a more national level, a non-profit organization called ClubsHelp Foundation along with the National Club Association (NCA) has created a fund just for employees at Oakland Hills whose jobs have been displaced. When difficulties like this strike, ClubsHelp and the NCA work with a network of golf course owners, club managers, golf course architects and golf professionals, members, and corporate partners to help. ClubsHelp has made an initial $5,000 donation and will match funds up and until the first $15,000 of outside donations. The collective goal is to raise $250,000. Tax-deductible donations from anyone may be made at https://donate.helpclubshelp.org/ohccfund/C ampaign/Details
Been There – But Don’t Want to Do That: In 2018, a similar all-wooden structure more than 90 years old, the clubhouse at Western Golf & Country Club in Redford Township near Five Mile Road, burned to the ground in June after a fire was discovered around 5:00 a.m. Its membership reacted with a similar resolve to build back better and stronger. They even hosted the Michigan Women’s Amateur less than three weeks after the fire. Their membership decided to replace the clubhouse with a stone and glass structure, and move it closer to the golf course – also a Donald
teaching pro Terri Ryan, a social member at Western who used to be an assistant pro there in the 1980s. “I had just had lunch there the day before and a couple friends decided to join the club.” With similar vibes coming out of Oakland Hills, Ryan praised how the Western leadership was very forthcoming with what was happening, and that set everyone’s mind at ease. She also referenced how Western’s history, while not as notable as Oakland Hills’, was all gone. “I think the biggest question I had in my mind was what would it be like when it comes back,” Ryan added. “And it’s turned out great. I can’t say enough good things about our Board and our general manager and all they did. Everything is worth waiting for,” she added in reference to what could be advice to her Oakland Hills contemporaries. “It was sad when I saw that fire going, because I have family and friends there (at Oakland Hills). My in-laws had their 50th anniversary there, my sister-in-law got married there, so many different memories at Oakland Hills. So, it’s sad, but at the end of the day I’m just glad no lives were lost – the same as it was at Western. There are memories there, but you have those forever.”
HIGH SCHOOL COACHES HALL OF FAME
High School Coaches Hall of Fame The Michigan Interscholastic Golf Coaches Association (MIGCA) announced four new inductees to join the current 120 members in its Michigan Interscholastic Golf Coaches Association Hall of Fame. Induction of these new members will take place during an MIGCA Hall of Fame and Golf Coaches of the Year banquet during the first week in August at Treetops Resort. Gary Buchholz has been the golf coach at Central Montcalm High School since 2003, coaching 19 seasons of boys and 18 seasons of girls. During those seasons Gary’s teams have played over 190 boys and 170 girls tournaments and have won 21 times, finished in 2nd place 60 times and 3rd or 4th another 97 times. His boys team won three MHSAA Regional titles and have had a team or individual play in six MHSAA State Championships. His girls’ team or individuals played in nine MHSAA State Championships. He has also had over 100 of his players selected as All-Conference and several received All State recognition. Gary joins two other former Central Montcalm golf coaches, Gregg Kirchen and Jim Whitmer, in the MIGCA Hall of Fame. Gary and his wife Rhonda live in Stanton and have three daughters: Kristen, Trish, Chelsey and seven grandchildren. Mike Joseph was a coach at Hartland High School for 40 years and coached girls golf during 23 of those. The girls' team had an overall dual match record of 202-79. His teams played in 184 invitational tournaments and finished in the top four 87 times, while winning 8 tournaments. His teams won three conference championships, and qualified teams or individuals 14 times for the MHSAA State Championship tournament. He has worked with the Hartland Glen Golf Course to promote clinics and individual instruction and helped grow the Kensington Junior Golf Tour over the years. Besides golf, Mike was the varsity girls' basketball coach, as well as the boys’ and girls’ 8th grade basketball coach for many years. In 2018 he was inducted into the Michigan High School Coaches Association Hall of Fame. Mike and his wife Gayle live in Hartland and spend their winters in Nevada. They have three daughters Michelle, Stephanie and Karen, and six grandchildren.
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HIGH SCHOOL COACHES HALL OF FAME Kim Napieralski has been the golf coach at Grand Rapids Catholic High School since 1999 and has coached 20 seasons of boys’ golf and 17 seasons of girls golf for a total of 37 seasons. During that time, the Catholic Central teams have had some impressive seasons under Kim’s leadership. Unfortunately, many of the older sports records from the high school were damaged and are unavailable. Some known records include: Boys OK Conference Championship five times; Girls OK Conference Championship two times; Boys MHSAA District Championship in 2008; MHSAA Regional Champions in 2021 and the 2021 MHSAA Division III Boys State Championship. Kim has received several coaching honors that included the MIGCA Division III Boys Coach of the Year in 2021. She has been instrumental in obtaining funds to open “The Den”, a 5,000 sq. ft. indoor golf facility for her teams and for over 20 years has held golf camps for grade school players. Kim and her husband Bill live in Grand Rapids and have a daughter, Jessa and son, Edwin with two grandsons.
Mark Olsen coached boys golf coach at White Pigeon High School for 21 years, retiring from coaching after the 2020 boys’ seasons. During his years of coaching the White Pigeon teams have played in 141 tournaments and won 36 titles and finished 2nd, 3rd or 4th another 33 times. The boys have won 12 conference championships, won four MHSAA District Championships and four Regional Championships. White Pigeon teams or individuals played in thirteen MHSAA State Championships and in 2003 and again in 2014 they won the Division IV MHSAA Boys State Championship. Mark has been recognized as MIGCA Division IV Boys Coach of the Year in both 2009 and 2014. Mark worked in the health care system for many years and is currently a Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist in his area. Mark and his wife Melanie live in White Pigeon and have four sons, Nicholas, Chase, Riley, Jordan, who all played college golf as well.
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EPSON TOUR
3 LPGA Epson Tour Pro Events in Michigan in Span of 6 Weeks Pro golf returns to Ann Arbor with the expanded deal strides to help young female pros make a serious run to the top.
Fernanda Lira won at Battle Creek last year
The Epson Tour has announced wildly greater purses in 2022. The tour’s average purse in 2013 was $108,000. In 2022 it will average $210,000, with a single event high of $335,000 at French
Lick Resort in August. The Epson Tour will also cut player entry fees and provide stipends for golfers that ‘graduate’ to the LPGA Tour to 18th Hole, Credit Larry Lambrecht help kick-start their rookie season costs.
By Tom Lang Professional women’s golf has finally received this year some of the recognition and equity it has been deserving of for decades. Not only did the USGA in January announce major increases in their purses for future U.S.
Michigan events in 2022 will be: Ann Arbor’s Road to the LPGA June 16-18, the Island Resort Championship in the U.P. the following week, June 24-26, and then from July 29-31, the Firekeepers Casino Hotel Championship at Battle Creek CC.
Women’s Opens – and a robust LPGA Tour schedule came out as well with larger purses and more airtime.
The Ann Arbor Sports Commission took a big step in returning women's golf to Ann Arbor. Travis Pointe Country Club will host, coming four years since it had the LPGA’s Volvik Championship.
Now the LPGA Tour’s feeder tour, renamed from Symetra to the Epson Tour, has made great
"The LPGA loved the Travis Pointe Country Club set up, and to bring an Epson Tour event
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back to this club and the Ann Arbor area is good
growth of our own golf business,” he added.
news for women's golf," said Mike Nichols, Chief Business Officer of LPGA Qualifying Tours. "The Volvik Championship received tremendous support from the club members, local sponsors, the volunteers, and the entire community.
“There were 15 events with an average purse of just over $100,000. Now there are 21 events with an average purse of $200,000. Our own golf business has grown from 14,000 rounds in 2011 to over 30,000 in 2021. As the Epson Tour
Mike Malach, Executive Director of the Ann Arbor Sports Commission, said, "This is the first time the Sports Commission has taken on an event of this magnitude, and we are excited to make it a great event." The purse will be $200,000 for the field of 144 women golfers. Tony Mancilla, GM at Island Casino Resort, near Escanaba, which has hosted the Epson Tour for over a decade, said, "Epson taking over the title sponsor of the tour is very exciting. It shows both the stability of the tour as an established product in the golf industry and also reflects positively on the growth of the tour. “The growth of the tour has mirrored the
gains more visibility through television, digital and print media, the tour will continue to grow both in events and purse size.” The Island Resort Championship at Sweetgrass ($225,000 purse) serves as the official U.S. qualifier for the LPGA’s Evian Championship. The final Michigan event, in Battle Creek, has also been a longtime host for the Epson Tour. It has a partnership with Island Resort Championship through the Potawatomi Cup that the Potawatomi nation tribes put together to reward even more money to the Epson Tour players who perform the best in each of their events plus the Fourwinds Invitational in South Bend, Indiana.
Michigan native Daniela Icobelli won the Island Resort Championship in 2019
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FLORIDA GOLF, INNISBROOK
By Bill Hobson, Michigan Golf Live To be clear up front, there was never a thought that my career best round was about to be unleashed. The game we love requires practice, which I had not done. The game requires flexibility, and I was dealing with an (excuse alert!) uncooperative lower back. To label me as “rusty” would not be fair to rust. Even so, when the opportunity arises to play a course that hosts a PGA Tour event, delusions of grandeur quickly flood the mind. That was the case with yours truly as I stepped to the first tee on Innisbrook’s Copperhead Course, site of the upcoming Valspar Championship. The second course to be built at Innisbrook, The Copperhead Course is the most recognizable of Innisbrook’s four courses and has become a favorite among the world's finest golf
professionals. On Copperhead, you'll enjoy golf the way nature intended. Pine tree-lined fairways and rolling terrain define the course, and the surrounding lakes and ponds present water hazards that are also home to abundant wildlife including fox squirrels, bald eagles, alligators, blue herons, and many other types of waterfowl. Striking in both beauty and challenge - The Copperhead Course is a lengthy challenge for even the longest hitters at more than 7,200 yards and is a must-play at Innisbrook. Copperhead presents a series of unique challenges. The course elevation is vastly more dramatic than most any other Florida course. There were numerous times I was reminded of playing in northern Michigan with “plays like” yardages being two to three clubs different. The greens on Copperhead are large and roll with a purity and speed that
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reminded me there was a Tour event just a
have played a crucial role in determining the
few days away.
outcome of the Valspar Championship several years in a row.
My opening nine holes was not fit for prime time (or even basic cable) as my timing and adjustment to the green speeds had me in danger of missing the imaginary cut
After missing putts of 6, 10, and 4 feet for par on each hole in the Snake Pit, I tipped my cap to the construction workers building the
connected to the tournament in my head. By my calculation, I was sitting firmly in
hospitality chalets around 18 and soaked in the sunshine of a gorgeous 75 degree Florida
second place, roughly 6 behind my Montreal-based playing partners Cedriq and 10 shots ahead of his father.
afternoon.
When we made the turn, the ibuprofen took effect and thankfully allowed for some improvement in my play as we headed for the finishing three holes known as the “Snake Pit.” With each hole on Copperhead having a unique name, the stretch of 16-18 are known as “Moccasin, Rattler, and Copperhead.” Each has its own treachery and as a group, these closing three holes
Innisbrook is home to four championship courses, including the spectacular Island Course. Constructed in 1970, the Island Course offers picturesque views and challenging play for golfers at every skill level. The course features tight fairways, intimidating water hazards, abundant bunkers, and extraordinary elevation change uncommon to the typical Florida terrain, and Continues on next page >>
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FLORIDA GOLF, INNISBROOK
home of the second-highest point of
body and mind will thank you.
elevation in Pinellas County. Guests and members alike consider the Island Course to be as equally, if not more, demanding as Copperhead. The course has played host to numerous U.S. Open Qualifiers, NCAA Championships, and the LGPGA TOUR's Legends Championship, and has also been ranked among the country’s Top 50 Resort Courses by Golf Digest. SPA Still have a few knots of tension and stress to work out? Dealing with a balky back like mine? Make sure the Salamander Spa at Innisbrook is part of your itinerary. A pair of hour-long massages for my wife and me in the relaxing setting of spa excellence and care had us both feeling totally rejuvenated. Treat yourself in between rounds. Your
DINING A real steakhouse is special. There’s a vibe, a feel, a level of excellence to the food but also to the experience. Packard’s Steakhouse is the real deal on every level. The longtime staff was fully on point – friendly, efficient, and overly generous. From the hostess stand to the servers to the chef, Packard’s delivered across the board. Outstanding steak, shrimp, and a reminder that while much of the country suffers from a lack of enthusiastic staff these days, Innisbrook still does it right, not just in Packard’s but all throughout the property. Friends, you don’t have to let winter win. Your escape to Innisbrook is waiting. Pack the shorts and the sunscreen.
WATCH or LISTEN to interviews and more from Innisbrook. http://www.foregolfersnetwork.com/fgn-video-innisbrook-golf-resort-a-glorious-winter-golf-escape/
JUNIOR GOLF AWARD
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Junior Golf Award
By Jeremiah Ritchie Bryson hits bombs. New equipment, from clothing to drivers to limited edition headcovers, is eye-popping and trendy. And at the ‘frat house’ that is the 16th hole of TPC Scottsdale we see dad bods with golfer tans and greens carpeted with beer bottles. We try a lot of things to keep our sport interesting and grow the game. But true growth starts at the junior level. Maple Hill Golf and their GM, Jason Sanchez, were honored this year for doing just that. The National Golf Course Owners Association presented the Player Development Award to Mr. Sanchez for his outstanding efforts in growing the game of golf. “When I was a junior golfer, I felt like the camps were boring and courses looked at us as more of a problem than a solution,” Jason said. “It’s important to create space for
young golfers to enjoy the game and receive quality instruction regardless of their skill level. They’re not just ‘junior’ golfers — they’re golfers! When you treat them like that, the way any golfer would want to be treated, it’s easy to get them hooked. It’s really the only way we can sustainably grow the game.” Under Mr. Sanchez’s guidance, Maple Hill Golf offers several opportunities for junior golfers who want to enter the sport as beginner players or continue to develop their skills. “We have a variety of summer programs, from our Pee Wee classes for golfers ages 7 and under to our Girl’s High School Camp or the Junior Academy for players desiring to play at a highly competitive level. We’re even adding an 8-week Junior League to our offering this year.” Over 1,300 golfers took part in Maple Hill Golf’s junior programs in 2021, and Mr. Sanchez continues to look for ways to grow those numbers. Jason added, “I’m a kid at heart. There isn’t a better way to grow the game than to teach young golfers and pass on our passion for the sport to them.”
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SPRING TRAINING
Tiger’s Spring Training Has Golf Options Too By Dave Daubert Note: at the time of publishing, it had not yet been determined when baseball Spring Training would begin due to the initial MLB lockout. Central Florida is always abuzz when Spring Training is in session for the Detroit Tigers and the Tiger faithful fill Joker Marchant Stadium. The lovely weather that accompanies the end of winter is perfect for outdoor activities, and what better way to enjoy the cool mornings and sunny afternoons than on a golf course, unless the Tigers are playing at Publix Field-home of course. Within the city limits of Lakeland, there are reasonable and playable tracks open to the public: Wedgewood Golf Club in north Lakeland is probably the closest in proximity to Joker
Marchant and is a regulation 18-hole, par 70 layout that stretches to 6,400 yards. It is open for public play with competitive pricing, three sets of tees, and 122/70.1 slope/rating. Call for tee times at 863-858-4451 or visit www.GolfWedgewood.com. Links of Sandpiper is located in a residential retirement community just off I-4, and was reimagined by the new owner Dave Tavlin. This well-manicured 6,000+ yard beauty is a fun track to enjoy an 18-hole round for the young-at-heart. While walking or riding the comfortable rolling terrain of Sandpiper, take a few moments to view the interesting trickling streams, water features and tree carvings Tarvin placed throughout his remodel. The par 70 course has four sets of tees so everyone can have a good time capped off by some tasty offerings at the Sandpiper restaurant and bar. Visit www.LinksofSandpiper.com or call 863-8584451.
WWW.MIGOLFJOURNAL.COM Huntington Hills Golf Club is the northernmost venue and a Ron Garldesigned par 71 with a slope/rating of 126/73 situated in a residential community full of challenging holes. The 6,788 yard layout with 5 sets of tees will definitely test your mettle and mental abilities. The course has large TifEagle greens, newly reworked bunkers and lush fairways. The clubhouse was recently remodeled and is a great place to enjoy a beverage and light fare. With a large driving range and sizable practice putting green, I recommend this spot to work on your game. Give them a call to book your tee time at 863-859-3689. Schalamar Creek Golf & Country Club is east off of Highway 92 and another club located in an active adult residential complex. The 6,200-yard par 72 layout sits among giant live oaks and ponds that come into play. The friendly staff and members do make playing here a fun day on the links. There are four sets of tees to make your game fit the appropriate distance and a great mix of risk/reward shots to tantalize your thoughts. Cold libations and tasty morsels await you in the downstairs restaurant with
Cleveland Heights Clubhouse
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more friendly faces. Visit www.Schalamar.com or call 863-666-1623. Lakeland's municipal golf offering is a 27 hole complex, Cleveland Heights Golf Club, a member of the Florida Historic Golf Trail with a mix of three nines that will challenge even the best of the bunch. Get your tee time reservation in asap because "the Heights" is always busy in season. Reasonable and delicious food, a full bar and plenty of seating allow locals who don't golf to visit for lunch and specialty dinners. Call 863-834-2377 or visit www.ClevelandHeightsGolf.com. Just a few minutes from "the Heights" is the Sanlan Golf & RV Resort with another 27 holes of pristine golf bordered by the Banana Lake and the Sanlan Bird & Wildlife Sanctuary on over 765 acres. For those Wolverine RVers, this is the perfect stay & play place during spring training. The three distinctive nines are Alligator, Bobcat and Cougar at an average of 3,000 yards apiece, with a huge driving range, pitching and chipping area, practice putting green and Continues on next page >>
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SPRING TRAINING
Eaglebrooke
bunker work. Visit www.Sanlan.com or call 863665-1726. Last but not least, The Club at Eaglebrooke is the premier semiprivate golf course and southernmost in Lakeland. This classic linksstyle 6,900- yard beauty with 100 feet of elevation change will challenge the best Tiger fan with its ever-present lakes and length. There are 5 sets of
in Winter Haven, the Florida Strawberry Festival March 3-13th in Plant City, Frank Lloyd Wright Visitor Center with 13 architectural buildings, Polk Museum of Art, or enjoy a stroll around Lake Mirror Park and Hollis Botanical Gardens near downtown Lakeland.
tees so all players can enjoy their round. The staff is welcoming and ready to help with some instruction on their well-maintained practice facilities. After the round you can enjoy a cold one and great fare in their lovely clubhouse. Call 863-701-0101 or visit www.Eaglebrooke.com. There you have it. You can choose your challenge amongst these Lakeland golf venues and still enjoy Tigertown any day. Besides golf, Michiganders can enjoy a visit to Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales, Legoland
Links of Sandpiper
TURFGRASS NEWS
Michigan Turfgrass Foundation makes $1 million lead gift to MSU By Abbey Miller, MSU A $1 million gift from the Michigan Turfgrass Foundation to the Michigan State University’s College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CANR) has launched a $5 million campaign to endow the Joe Vargas Chair in Turfgrass Pathology. “We are fortunate to have the Michigan Turfgrass Foundation’s partnership in our efforts to advance solutions to pressing challenges in turfgrass science in ways that will improve lives and strengthen communities,” said MSU President Samuel L. Stanley Jr., M.D. “Endowed positions are a cornerstone for recruiting outstanding faculty and supporting innovative research.” MSU’s land-grant tradition of linking research to the region’s needs continues to advance the economic development, environmental stewardship, and improved quality of life in Michigan and around the world. This endowment honors Dr. Joe Vargas who has dedicated his 51-year career to improving the quality of turf on every
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continent except Antarctica. His knowledge has been shared in over 200 articles and over 1,000 presentations. As an international expert on turfgrass diseases, he is a member of the Michigan Golf Hall of Fame. Established in 1957, the Michigan Turfgrass Foundation (MTF) is a non-profit organization which supports turfgrass research and education. The organization’s members represent a vast portion of the industry including: homeowners, golf courses, seed, sod and stolon growers, municipalities, parks and recreation, schools, landscape and lawn care contractors, athletics and cemeteries. “The Joe Vargas Endowed Chair continues the Michigan Turfgrass Foundation’s partnership with Michigan State University that has been successful for over 50 years,” said Carey Mitchelson, Michigan Turfgrass Foundation executive director. “This initiative helps to ensure that the MSU Turfgrass Program continues into perpetuity, sustains MSU’s place in cutting-edge turfgrass technology, and furthers the advancement of turfgrass students. The combined efforts of MSU and the Michigan Turfgrass Foundation exhibit the true meaning of a land-grant university working with its partners to provide a template and foundation of future research and educational programs for generations to come.” For over 70 years, MSU’s Turfgrass Management Program has provided significant, cutting-edge research that positively impacts practitioners and endusers, from our back yards to world-class golf courses.