Springfield Golf & Country Club
the SPRINGFIELD STORY
2025 Board of Directors
John Astorino
President john.astorino@longandfoster.com
Bob Sampson Vice President bsampson71@gmail.com
Tom Stribling Secretary tjstribling@gmail.com
Dan McCarthy Treasurer danm5691@gmail.com
David DeLorenzo david.delorenzo@gmail.com
Joe English jenglish@bsbllc.com
David Kelly davidnkelly@verizon.net
Charles Rolen rolencw@gmail.com
Harrison Smith hharrisonsmith@gmail.com
2025 Committees
Audit
Dave Nachison dnachison@yahoo.com
Communications
Katie Kissal katiekissal@gmail.com
Facilities & Maintenance
Peter Vogt gmte1e6@verizon.net
Finance
Dan McCarthy danm5691@gmail.com
Fitness
Gayle Burgoyne gayleburgoyne@aol.com
Food & Beverage
John Palladino jape199@aol.com
Golf
Matt Lougheed matthew.lougheed@gmail.com
Golf Rules
Bruce Nordstrom bnorthstream@yahoo.com
Charles Rolen rolencw@gmail.com
Greens Tom Stribling tjstribling@gmail.com
Dan Derisio dderisio@yahoo.com
House John Palladino jape199@aol.com
Membership Johnny Garstka johnnygarstka2024@gmail.com
Charles Rolen rolencw@gmail.com
Personnel
Bob Sampson bsampson71@gmail.com
Racquets
Harrison Smith hharrisonsmith@gmail.com
Social
Natalee Siveroni nataleesiveroni@gmail.com
Marie Denslow a93aggie@gmail.com
Strategic Planning
David DeLorenzo david.delorenzo@gmail.com
Swim/Pool
Mike Goede goedes@me.com
General Manager's Message
BY STEVE LAWSON, CCM | GENERAL MANAGER & CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
It’s summer at SGCC! Between junior camps, swim team and water aerobics, tennis team matches, golf school, and our live music series, there are so many ways to have fun at the Club this season. I hope you enjoyed the spectacular fireworks and picnic on July 3—we love hosting this annual Member tradition.
There have been a variety of recent updates and projects around the Club as we continuously work to enhance the Member experience. Branded tents and coolers have arrived for golf which we got to show off at our annual 3-Day Member/Guest Tournament. We’ve also expanded our ladies apparel offerings with new items RLX now available in the Golf Pro Shop.
Our soft serve ice cream machine is up and running, and new cocktail ice machines have been added to the bar. We’ve also improved the layout and utility of the Grill Room by building
a dedicated computer station. This has allowed space for additional dining furniture as well as a coffee and tea bar which doubles as a sundae station on Friday through Sunday nights. Have you seen the new Adirondack chairs in the grass behind the patio? They are a wonderful place to relax and unwind, catch up with friends, and watch golfers finish on 18 green.
The Fitness Center has been outfitted with upgraded strength and function equipment including a TRX suspension bay, half rack and bumper plates, 5-station multi-gym, leg press, dumbbell rack, and more. Reggie is hosting a new equipment demo on Wednesday, July 9 from 6:00–7:30 PM so you can learn how to get the most out of these new additions!
Exciting things are happening regarding communication as we will be launching a new Club website this fall. The redesign process began in April and includes updating the look, feel, and navigation of the current website for an improved user
experience. We have also been exploring new mediums of communication such as a private social media platform which will allow Department Heads to share information and happenings in one place.
Speaking of the Staff, the employee breakroom is undergoing construction as we work to improve the existing space and provide an area for team members to relax, socialize, and build community. I would also like to welcome the Seasonal Staff who have joined our team in the recent weeks. Training and onboarding for our bag room, pool, and food and beverage team members has been complete, and we are excited and grateful to have them! Thank you for being so warm and welcoming to these individuals who are eager to serve you. The entire Staff continues to challenge themselves to elevate the amenities and service at SGCC as everything we do is in pursuit of cultivating the best possible Member experience.
From a governance perspective, great conversations are happening on a Board and Committee level regarding policy and prioritization of future action. For example, the Fitness Committee is discussing ongoing programming initiatives, and the Racquets Committee is preparing for an upcoming capital lighting project. All lights on the indoor courts will be upgraded to competitive level, a much-needed improvement from the current light levels of 17 to 35 footcandles, which
is below recreational level. Racquets players will be able to better track shots, the primary concern expressed for that department in the Member Satisfaction Survey.
Lastly, the Strategic Planning Committee is in the midst of a comprehensive facility evaluation. In conjunction with the Staff, in-depth SWOT analyses (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) are being performed to examine departmental needs and inform future project prioritization. I have also received a handful of questions regarding the status of the Driving Range Focus Group. Your ongoing feedback and follow-up are greatly appreciated and valued. The Strategic Planning Committee is currently reviewing the quantitative and qualitative data, and the results will be shared with the Membership once next steps are determined.
Finally, I’d like to thank the Board, Committees, and Membership for their ongoing support and participation. Thank you for representing the Club well, for showing up in the ways you do, and for your continued efforts in nurturing the Springfield community we all get to be part of.
Limited Spots Still Available for SGCC Summer Camps 2025!
Week of July 7–11
• Art & Movement Camp (age 6–10), 9:00 AM –3:00 PM
• Half Day Art Camp (age 4–5), 12:00–3:00 PM
• Full-Day Tennis & Pickleball Camp (age 5–14), 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
• One-Hour Tennis & Pickleball Camp (age 5–14), 10:00–11:00 AM
Week of July 14–18
• Camp SGCC (age 6–10), 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
• Full-Day Tennis & Pickleball Camp (age 5–14), 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
• One-Hour Tennis & Pickleball Camp (age 5–14), 10:00–11:00 AM
Week of July 21–25
• Art & Movement Camp (age 6–10), 9:00 AM –3:00 PM
• Half Day Art Camp (age 4–5), 12:00–3:00 PM
• Golf & Tennis Camp (age 6–15), 10:00 AM –3:00 PM
• Full-Day Tennis & Pickleball Camp (age 5–14), 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
• One-Hour Tennis & Pickleball Camp (age 5–14), 10:00–11:00 AM
Week of July 28–August 1
• Art & Movement Camp (age 6–10), 9:00 AM –3:00 PM
• Half Day Art Camp (age 4–5), 12:00–3:00 PM
• Golf & Tennis Camp (age 6–15), 10:00 AM –3:00 PM
• Full-Day Tennis & Pickleball Camp (age 5–14), 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Week of August 4–8
• Full-Day Tennis & Pickleball Camp (age 5–14), 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Week of August 11–15
• Golf Camp (age 6–15), 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
• Full-Day Tennis & Pickleball Camp (age 5–14), 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Your Guide to Training & Triumph
BY JACKIE O'SHEA, FITNESS DESK MANAGER & REGGIE EDWARDS, DIRECTOR OF FITNESS
SGCC's first-ever Mini Triathlon Challenge is approachable, exciting, and designed for all fitness levels. A traditional triathlon is a race that combines swimming, biking, and running in one continuous event. Triathlons aren’t just about speed, they’re about endurance, determination, and having fun while pushing your limits and discovering what your body can do.
The SGCC Mini Triathlon will take place during the week of August 11–17. You may choose any day within that week to complete the challenge, but all three parts (swim, bike, and run) must be completed on the same day and in that exact order: SWIM→BIKE→RUN.
Start by checking in at the pool desk, where Staff will time and log your swim (6 laps/300 meters). Once finished, head to the Fitness Center to complete the bike segment (5 miles at resistance level 10), notify the fitness desk of your bike time, then immediately transition to your 1.5 mile treadmill run at 1 incline. Your total time will be recorded and added to our leaderboard, with winners in each age group earning a one-hour massage with Angelica!
Training for an event like this is exciting, but it’s important to approach it with care and strategy to avoid burnout, injury, and frustration. For most beginners, a 6–8-week training window is
ideal because it provides enough time to gradually build your endurance, improve your technique, and create a consistent rhythm without overwhelming your body. Slow progression is key. That’s why we follow the “10% rule,” which simply means you shouldn’t increase your total weekly training volume, whether time or distance, by more than 10%. This keeps your progress steady, sustainable, and safe.
If you’ve been following along with our weekly Fitness News emails, you should already be several weeks into training. Haven’t started yet? That’s okay! There’s still time to start, and, remember, we cultivate a supportive fitness community here at SGCC—we want to see you try your hardest while having a good time!
In the first phase of training, your main goal is to build a strong base. You’re establishing the habit of showing up and teaching your body how to move through each discipline. Comfort and confidence are just as valuable as pace or distance in this phase. Consider signing up for the Adult Swim Squad on Tuesday and Thursday evenings—this is a great place to start getting comfortable in the water and establishing a routine.
Once you’ve established your foundation, weeks three and four build endurance and efficiency. This is when you’ll start pushing
yourself a bit more, sharpening your skills, and reducing the amount of rest you need between efforts.
As you approach the middle of your plan, around weeks five and six, your focus shifts to race preparation and mental stamina. The goal isn’t to go fast, it’s to hold your form, pacing, and concentration under increasing physical stress. You’re learning to perform while tired, which mirrors how you’ll feel on competition day.
Then come the final two weeks—your peak and taper phase. By now, your fitness has reached its highest point. For week seven, go all out! Push yourself to simulate the competition. Be careful in the final week though and don't make the mistake of thinking more is better. The smartest thing you can do the final week leading up to the race is pull back just enough to let your body recover and fully absorb all the training you've done. This process is called tapering, and it’s essential for peak performance. During this phase, you reduce training volume but maintain movement, allowing your muscles to rebuild, your nervous system to reset, and your energy stores to replenish. This means you’ll head into race week fresh. It's normal to feel restless during taper week but trust the process: this rest is what transforms your training into competition day readiness.
Above all, remember that this journey is about progress, not perfection. Each training phase builds on the last, not only making you stronger but also more aware of what your body and mind can accomplish. When approached thoughtfully, this kind of training doesn’t just prepare you, it transforms how you carry yourself far beyond the finish line.
Rest days are just as important as your training days. They allow your body to recover, rebuild muscle, and adapt to the physical stress you're placing on it. Skipping rest can lead to fatigue, poor form, and injury—especially when juggling three sports. Beyond that, rest prevents mental burnout and keeps you engaged week after week.
Equally vital are proper warm-ups and cool-downs. Before training, your body needs a dynamic warm-up which is when you do a series of controlled movements like arm circles, leg swings, high knees, and shoulder rolls. These boost blood flow, loosen joints, and prepare your nervous system for action. After your workout, ease your body back to baseline with a cooldown: a short walk, light pedaling, and static stretches for major muscle groups. These routines aren’t optional! They’re essential to staying injury-free and feeling good during this process.
This is a challenge for everyone. Whether you've never swum more than a lap, or you're a seasoned athlete looking for your
next goal, this event is for you. If you're a fitness beginner, the structured progression offers a safe and motivating way to build endurance. If you’re here to push your limits, the resistancebased format delivers a serious test. Most importantly, this is for anyone who wants to step up, try something new, and rediscover what their body and mind can do
SGCC is proud to be home to a vibrant and diverse fitness community from young athletes and busy parents to dedicated gym regulars and older adults focused on lifelong wellness. This challenge is for all of you. And if you usually spend your time in other areas of the Club, we’d love for you to step into the Fitness Center and experience something new. Come challenge yourself, try something different, and see just how fun and energizing the fitness side of SGCC can be. You might surprise yourself and we’ll be cheering you on every step of the way.
Life begins at the edge of your comfort zone. Our Mini Triathlon Challenge is proof that you’re ready to test your limits, face your doubts, and grow stronger because of it. All you need consistency and the willingness to show up. Train smart. Listen to your body. Incorporate strength work and cross training to round out your routine. The discipline and focus you build while training will spill into every area of your life. You’ll move better, feel better, and walk into each day with more confidence. As Shakespeare wrote in the St. Crispin’s Day speech to rally the troops, so we rally you to this challenge: “He today that sheds his sweat with me shall be my brother... we few, we happy few, we band of brothers… And gentlemen in England now a-bed, shall think themselves accursed they were not here, and hold their manhoods cheap whiles any speaks that fought with us.”
When you take on this challenge, you join a community of people who rise to a challenge, not because they have to, but because they can. What a gift it is to move, to breathe, to take advantage of your body’s abilities! Don’t take it for granted. Honor it. Use it. Sign up, train with intention, and discover what you're truly capable of. We’ll be right there with you.
Coach's Corner: Safe Rarely Wins
BY BRANDEN BEETS | DIRECTOR OF RACQUET SPORTS
Fear is something we all face in competitive sports. My oldest son plays for a high-level tackle football team, and there’s no weight limit. He’s got great football IQ and elite footwork, but he’s often undersized compared to the players across from him. He plays defensive back, and over time we’ve had a lot of conversations about what it takes to make a solid open-field tackle.
Closing space quickly is one of the hardest things to do, especially when you’re one-onone against big, fast kids who are trying to put you on their highlight reel. It’s tempting to hang back and wait for the ball carrier to come to you, but that just gives them time to build momentum, plan their moves, and gain extra yards.
As we shift our focus to the fall season, I want to talk about something I’ve been hearing from both players and staff—a fear of making mistakes. This hesitation is holding some players back from closing out close games, sets, and matches.
“Fear doesn't go away when you wait. It shrinks when you act.”
— ROGER CRAWFORD
In both football and tennis, we use the term thoughtful aggression: it’s about finding that balance between being reckless and playing too cautiously. That’s the mission.
A big thank you to everyone who represented SGCC this spring in the Interclub Tennis League. Over the past eight weeks, our courts have been filled with pressure-packed points, thrilling tiebreakers, long rallies, and a whole lot of high fives and smiles.
Here’s the truth: putting yourself in tough matches is exactly what builds the experience you need. When the pressure is on, don’t pull back. Take control. Playing conservatively might feel safer, but it usually doesn’t lead to success. You can’t just sit back and hope your opponent messes up. That’s not a winning mindset.
Think of that football player who waits for the ball carrier to come to him. He’s the one who gets run over or juked out. Now think of the player who attacks with intention, who cuts down the space, limits the other person’s options, and makes the play. That’s who you want to be.
Whether you're making a tackle on the field or stepping into an important point in doubles, play with purpose. Hit with intention. Pressure the net. Control the rally.
Don’t hesitate. Safe rarely wins. Trust your training and go make a play.
R E C A P
3-Day Member/Guest
From dodging wild storms on Thursday, to a full slate of competitive golf on Friday, and finishing with a thrilling shootout finale on Saturday, this year’s JAWS-themed 3-Day Member/Guest had it all!
In an electric finish, John Halfhill and Dave Moody carded a net 3 on Hole #17, giving them a 2-shot cushion heading to the final hole. With the pressure on and challengers close behind, Moody stepped up and drained a 20-foot putt on #18 to clinch the title in dramatic fashion!
A huge congratulations to our 2025 Champions, John Halfhill and Dave Moody!
The duo held strong to capture a 3-stroke victory in the aggregate stroke playoff, outlasting fierce competition from Jason Kaeding/Keith Brewer and Matt Hover/David Edward. True grit, nerves of steel—and champions to the end!
R E C A P
Ladies Member/Guest
The ladies of the WGA know how to embrace a theme! Much fun was had at both the cocktail party on Wednesday night and on the golf course on Thursday, June 12. Congratulations to our Gross and Net winners:
TIGERS FLIGHT
• Gross: Chau Tran, Ngoc-Hoa Nguyen, Teresa Li, and Helen Nguyen
• Net: Alison Webber, Chrissy Wike, Claire Giambastiani, and Jamie Pagliocco
LIONS FLIGHT
• Gross: Erin Jones, Vicky Toenshoff, Karen McNamara, and Elaine Block
• Net: Tea Holbrook, Jessica Bradley, Heather Lougheed, and Becky Smith
R E C A P
Ladies Tennis Garden Party
The courts were in full bloom for this year’s signature Ladies Tennis Tournament, which served up a perfect blend of competition, camaraderie, and charm under the whimsical Garden Party theme.
Held on Saturday, June 14, the day began with check-in and a light breakfast. Guests were also invited to explore a curated selection of pop-up shops, including Pink Reef Jewelry and Aroma Wellness Boutique.
Garden party attire was encouraged for both tennis and the afternoon festivities, and participants donned floral prints, sun hats, and pastel palettes that brought the theme to life on and off the court!
Two flights of teams (36 players, 18 teams) competed in a roundrobin format, with spirited play and plenty of laughter along the way. Prizes were awarded to flight winners and the best dressed duo, recognizing both skill and style. Congratulations to Sara Dobkin and Michelle Lease on winning the Garden Goddesses division and to Jessica Bradley and Claire Giambastiani on winning the Petal to the Metal division. Shout-outs are also in order for Jodi Constantino and Sally Bailey for winning Best Dressed and turning heads with their beautiful ensembles!
The day concluded with a beautifully styled Garden Party Luncheon on the clubhouse patio, where players gathered for a seasonal meal, shared stories from the court, and received thoughtful favors in appreciation of their participation.
With sunshine, style, and friendship in full bloom, this signature event captured everything the players look forward to each year!
Membership Corner
BY SHELLY GOOREVICH MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR
Please join me in welcoming some of our newest Member families:
Billy Barry and Tyler Fitzgerald live in Alexandria with their doodle mix, Theo. Billy is a product manager in health IT and Tyler is a senior account manager with an eye health company. Billy is an avid golfer, while Tyler enjoys being poolside and (hopefully) congratulating Billy on a great round. In the offseason, they love to travel and check new destinations off their lists. Billy and Tyler are very excited to meet new friends and enjoy all SGCC has to offer!
David and Erica Fonseca, and their two young children, Mila (2) and David (5 months), are thrilled to join SGCC and become part of its vibrant community. You’ll likely find them soaking up the sun by the kiddie pool this summer, and they’re also looking forward to enjoying golf and tennis as their family grows. David works in public policy at Meta, while Erica is a program manager at a philanthropic organization. The couple married in 2020 and are excited to raise their family in the area. David has called Northern Virginia home since third grade, and Erica is originally from Lynchburg, VA. They attend Immanuel Bible Church in Springfield. The Fonsecas are excited to connect with fellow Members and make the most of all SGCC has to offer.
Kevin Link, a lifelong resident of the Springfield area, developed a love for golf early on and continues to enjoy playing whenever he gets the chance. He attended Catholic University of America (CUA), where he earned his degree in architecture, and has since built a successful career with over 30 years of experience in the field. Yubiry spent part of her childhood in Ohio and the rest abroad in South America. As an adult, she returned to the U.S. and has established a long-standing career in architecture. The couple live in Lorton and operate their own architectural firm, conveniently located just across the street from SGCC.
They enjoy spending time with their three adult children, as well
David, Erica, Mila, and David Fonseca
Billy Barry and Tyler Fitzgerald
Kevin and Yubiry Link
as with extended family and friends. As enthusiastic golfers, Kevin and Yubiry share a passion for the game and are now looking forward to dedicating more time to both improving their skills and engaging in the social life of the club. They are excited about becoming more active in the SGCC community and making new friends who share similar interests.
Lesley and Matt McGrew have been married for 22 years. They are both Midwesterners, with Lesley being from Michigan, and Matt growing up in Ohio and Illinois. The couple relocated from Chicago to Alexandria in 2005 for Matt’s work with Danaher Corporation. Since moving to Virginia, Lesley has worked at National Geographic, The Nature Conservancy, and as a buyer for a local business until 2020. Their daughter, Kate (14), is a rising sophomore at Saint Stephen’s and Saint Agnes School. Kate enjoys tennis, art, softball, and pool time among other activities, and is excited to play more tennis at SGCC. The McGrews enjoy being outdoors, and are looking forward to all the club has to offer and to meeting more families and Members.
Ron and Jenn Mellott live in McLean with their children, Jack (9) and Avery (3), and pup, Ginger. Ron and Jenn met as middle school students in Naperville, IL, and have been married since 2009. They have lived in the DC area since 2005, with a six-month stint in Hong Kong and four-year stint in Brussels for Jenn’s job as an antitrust lawyer at Freshfields. Their family enjoys sports, traveling, good food, and friends. On the weekends, you can typically find them traveling between Jack’s games, practices, and meet-ups, while trying to fit in a round of golf. They are looking forward to integrating into the SGCC community, the amazing pool, and to spending lots of time on the golf course.
Ron and Jenn Mellott
Lesley, Matt, and Kate McGrew
July 2025
Learn More About Our July Events...
Our Biggest Signature Event of the Year! Picnic Food, Live Music, Carnival Rides, Food Trucks, Fireworks, and Nonstop Fun! Registration and Wristbands are Required.
Breakfast, 7:00-10:00 PM
Lunch, 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Racquets & Fitness Center Close at 4:00 PM
Clubhouse & Golf Shop Close at 5:00 PM Pool Closes at 8:00 PM
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GRASS COURT RESERVATIONS
The Driving Range will Remain a Grass Court so Members May Book Their Own Court Time and Experience this Unique Playing Surface! A Limited Number of Court Times are Available. Be on the Lookout for More Information about the Court Time Lottery, Coming Soon.
FAMILY NIGHT AT THE POOL 5:00-8:00 PM
We're Cooking Up a Fun Evening for Everyone! Join Us at the Pool to Enjoy a DUNK TANK from 5:00–8:00 PM and Swim and Play with MERMAIDS from 6:00–8:00 PM. Registration Not Required. Event is Complimentary. 18
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Golf Course Closed to Member Play. Check Your Email for Reopening Times.
Learn How to Use and Get the Most Out of Our
Equipment with Our Expert Trainers!
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JUNIOR CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP 1:00 PM
Junior Golfers can Showcase their Skills, Compete in a Fun and Supportive Environment, and Create Lasting Memories at Our Junior Club Championship! We'll Have a Several Divisions: 3-Hole (max age 8); 6-Hole (max age 11); 9-Hole (max age 14); 18-Hole Girls (max age 18); and 18-Hole Boys (max age 18).
FOREIGNER TRIBUTE BAND ON THE LAWN
7:00 - 11:00 PM
We're Setting Up a Stage on the Lawn Behind the Clubhouse with a Bar, Dinner Buffet, and Late Night Snacks Available by Chit. Registration is Not Required, but Dinner Reservations are Highly Encouraged. Bring a Lawn Chair or a Blanket, or Enjoy the Show from our Standing Area.
CITI OPEN ADULT BUS TRIP 6:00 PM - 1:00 AM
5:00-8:00 PM
Break Out Your Wimbledon Whites! We're Transforming the Driving Range into a Grass Tennis Court for a Unique Member Experience. With Exhibition Matches from Juniors, Men, and Women; Games; Food; and More, You Don't Want to Miss this Signature Event! Registration is Required.
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Join the SGCC Racquets Pros on a Trip to See Many of the World's Best Players Battle for the DC Title! Includes Transportation To and From the Events, Ticket, and Snacks on the Bus. Registration Required, Space is Limited.
SWIM TEAM PEP RALLY & DINNER
26-27 PRESIDENT'S CUP
August 2025
CLUBHOUSE
HAPPY
FRIDAY
Learn More About Our August Events...
LADIES GOLF CLINIC 2:00 - 3:00 PM
Perfect for Women Golfers of All Skill Levels. Designed to Provide a Relaxed, Social Learning Experience While You Improve Your Golf Fundamentals. Registration Required. 11–17 MINI TRIATHLON
Brought to You by the Fitness Center! The Competition Will Take Place During the Week of August 11–17. You May Choose Any Single Day Within that Week to Complete the Challenge. Challenge Must Be Completed in Order, Timed, and Logged with Staff. See the Weekly Fitness News Email for More Details!
6:00 - 10:00 PM
Delicious Food, Themed Cocktails, Exciting Games, and More! Registration Required. $85++ All Inclusive (Food, Select Wine, Beer, and Specialty Cocktails).
Please Note, Pool will Close Early for Preparations.
Why Take Golf Advice from Your Spouse when You Can Leave it to the Professionals? Join Us for a Lighthearted Couples Golf Clinic—Our Version of Golf Marriage Counseling! Whether You're Looking to Improve Your Game or Just Have Some Fun Together, Our Instructors will Guide You Through an Enjoyable Session Filled with Laughs, Teamwork, and SkillBuilding. Registration Required.
Turf Talk
BY SHAWN GILL | GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENT
Sometimes I just have to question my sanity. I often find myself telling various people, from Members to friends and even new acquaintances, that one of my favorite parts of being a golf course Superintendent is the constant challenge of maintaining these highly manicured surfaces under extreme conditions. Only a crazy person would want to spend their summers going through sleepless nights of wondering what new species of fungi they’re going to find the next morning after five straight days of temperatures in the upper 90’s and 5 inches of rain…well, call me crazy! It’s the satisfaction of getting through those days and driving around the course just before sunset to see that things held up pretty well that puts a big smile on my face. Even more, it’s the smiles on the faces of dedicated staff members at the end of 14-hour day, knowing that they “Killed It!”
Every season brings at least a few of these moments and this year is no exception. Things were going along in a fairly lowstress manner with higher-than-average moisture and relatively mild temperatures. Then, as usual, Member/Guest brought a deluge. But this time we only lost part of the first day! Nightly rains kept things saturated but playable and the heat held off until after the tournament’s conclusion. And then, oh boy, did the heat come! Five straight days near 100 degrees took its toll, but thanks to the hard work and long days put in by the Greens Crew, we’re holding on as we prepare for the Bobby Bowers tournament. After that, we go into survival mode and try to keep the course alive and enjoyable for you all until the September cool-off.
The weather has also played havoc with the Bermudagrass driving range tee. The cold and snow we had this past winter really “checked up” the early summer growth of the warm season turf. In fact, many area courses with Bermudagrass fairways found themselves having to sod out dead areas. We are just now starting to lower the height of cut on the Wimbledon court section of the tee, and while we are behind schedule, this latest round of hot, muggy weather has perked up the Bermuda and I’m quite confident that shortly after this issue goes to print, you will all have the opportunity to watch another great exhibition of tennis prowess on the DC area’s only grass court, albeit only open for two days. It’s fun and challenging to create something so unique and different from our regular tasks.
Earlier, I mentioned that we have received our fair share of rain this year. Looking at last year’s article from this time, I was crying the drought blues and we had already purchased water twice in order to keep the course conditions up…definitely a different story this year! I have only witnessed two days when water was not flowing over the top of the spillway. We have pumped only 4.7 million gallons of water through our irrigation system. Only, you say, but that is actually a pretty small amount for a
course that can potentially irrigate approximately 100 acres. In comparison, by this time last year, we had pumped 11.7 million gallons and in 2023, 10.7 million gallons. So, we’re saving some money on water purchases, but unfortunately having to spend it on additional fungicides. It’s always something, but those are some of the fun challenges I was mentioning. Of course now that I’ve complained about the excess water, I’m sure we’ll end up with a drought for the rest of the year.
Speaking of water over the spillway, yes we are on schedule to finally slay the dragon this fall and put that issue to rest. After some required modifications and bridge redesigns, most of the permitting has been completed. As long as Mother Nature cooperates (and even if she doesn’t), we’ll break ground in early November and by next spring you’ll never hear me mention the word spillway again.
It’s probably an ancient memory to most of you now, and not even noticed while you are playing, but I am sure glad we were able to remove and thin out the forest behind and to the right of #5 green. Right about now it would likely be in severe decline if not for the increased sunlight and airflow created by the project. It is still the least optimal green on the course in terms of growing conditions, but is much more manageable and we will continue to create channels for air to flow through and hope for continued improvement.
On a closing note, I’d like to again thank my Staff for all they do. For me, as an absolute lover of the game of golf, it is easy to put in the effort and recognize how great a course we have here and how what we do makes every round played more enjoyable and how each task we complete perfectly results in a shot better played. But imagine spending hours in the hot sun or the cold rain, working incredibly hard and having little understanding of the game or exactly how your actions affect every shot taken. Yet they put in truly incredible effort with a smile and a positive attitude. You are lucky Members and I am a lucky Superintendent to have them!
Hey! Ho! H 2O! All About Water Safety
BY MOLLY FIELD | COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE
Do you know that the term, “Eureka!” is attributed to Archimedes when he made a discovery while taking a bath? Let’s keep this family friendly shall we? He discovered how to determine the density of an object in water. In this case, it was reportedly gold, not a rubber ducky. Edgar Allen Poe wrote a poem titled “Eureka!” which ultimately inspired prospectors in California’s gold rush to shout the word when they found gold.
What’s cool and refreshing and makes you feel lighter when you’re in it? Our pool. The deeper you go, the lighter you feel. Some facts:
• At waist high, we experience only 40-50% of our body weight in the water versus being on land.
• When you go up to your chest, your weight is reduced to 25-30% of your weight on land and reduced to just 10% when the base of your neck and head are above water.
• Bones and muscle are heavier than water, while blood, fat, and inflated lungs are lighter than water, so having some “junk in the trunk” helps us float.
• A slow, paced, and full inhalation will also increase your buoyancy.
Lots of people are intimidated by water. I have learned to respect the ocean. Anything that is that much bigger than I am and that is moodier than disturbed hornets demands my attention. When it comes to pools, I have conditions, so I’m a lot like Goldilocks: water and air temps have to be ideal: so not too hot or cold, and the pool itself needs to be relatively calm.
I am, however, always interested in brushing up my water competency confidence. How about you?
Never Learned to Swim? What’s Stopping You?
I was alarmed, but not surprised, to learn while writing this piece that according to the American Red Cross, 54% of American adults, either cannot swim or do not have the basic swimming skills necessary for water safety. I didn’t think the incidence was that high. Realistically, if you’re enjoying a beach, a pool, a lake, fishing from a boat, or on a paddle board or kayak on mellow waters and you’re a competent swimmer, chances are more than half that the other person near you in or on the water has zero swimming skills.
More specifically:
• An American Red Cross survey found that while 80% of adults claim they can swim, only 56% can perform all five basic water competency skills (which are those required to get a swimmer’s card at most pools monitored by lifeguards).
• 1:6 of 3,000 American adults surveyed —16%— can't swim at all.
• A report from the CDC states that 40 million U.S. adults can't swim.
• The Lloyd's Register Foundation World Risk Poll found that 55% of people aged 15 and older worldwide cannot swim unassisted.
That is sobering. Luckily, it’s July and our pool is open for another nine weeks or so. If you’re an adult, and you want to ramp up or begin your swimming routine, Monica Bartos is running a fantastic hour-long swimming clinic, “Adult Swim Squad,” on Tuesday and Thursday evenings at 6:45 at the pool. I, for one, am eager to join the Thursday program, and I will have likely done that by the time you’re reading this! I’d do both nights, but I teach SGCC yin yoga (essentially yoga in your pajamas)
at 7:00 PM on Tuesdays over Zoom. I encourage you to attend both nights if you can! Just because you think you won’t ever go in the water, if you drive, walk, or bike over a bridge or get those “flash flood” alerts on your phone, that water could be just around the corner.
True story: I’ve personally been in a very dangerous water situation, and I’m physically very strong, a mindfulness practitioner, and a pretty good swimmer, but I almost drowned. It was my 26th wedding anniversary too, and I actually thought (between coughs, heaves, and sobs) while I was being helped back to shore, that it would be a bummer of a way to go but it would make a great Dateline episode. Truth.
Q: What’s more humbling than taking swim classes as an adult?
A: Screaming for help and flailing about because you lack the basic skills to preserve your own life in water. I was that flailer.
I learned to swim when I was five. I hail from Bills country, and I lived less than a mile from the mouth of the Niagara River at Lake Erie. In my family were power boaters, rowers, sailors, and swimmers. My swim instructor at my tender age was not patient or compassionate to my blue lips and tiny frame shivering while standing and crying in the pool’s cold water, but I survived her failures and I earned “Most Improved Swimmer” award that year when I was a “Crackerjack” at my day camp. That moment still ranks amongst my top 10 of personal achievements.
The massiveness and power of open water is relentless and mesmerizing and so, naturally, people think pools are safer. Not so fast. According to Stop Drowning Now, a grassroots drowning prevention advocacy group that is bringing swimming education to landlocked classrooms, 80% of child drownings happen in residential pools while (hang on to your hat), an adult was present; and 74% of accidental drownings occur in residential pools regardless of age.
When my sons were little and at the pool, I was a very uninteresting person to talk to. If I wasn’t in the water within a quick thrust to reach them, my eyes were locked on them and their friends who in moments of fun and horseplay often forgot the meaning of “keep your hands off his whole body” until I locked eyes with them. I can’t truly relax near water unless it’s dark out or no one is in it, to be honest.
“Bystander” Rescuer’s Risk
If more than half the people in the world can’t swim, odds are you will be in the water near a person who can't swim at all or who can't perform essential water competency skills like
floating, treading water, or swimming a short distance to safety. Is that person you? Yikes. If it’s not you, and someone in the water anywhere near you loses control of their safety, and you lock eyes, you’re likely going to feel morally called (although not legally required in the U.S.) to help.
If you act to help, you become a “bystander rescuer” and the sand timer flips for your survival: depending on myriad unknown and fluctuating variables (such as injury history, intellectual condition of the person in question, tidal pattern, depth or current of the water), you might save a life and you might drown, you might both drown (which is often the case), or you might both make it. Add alcohol to the situation and the cause of drowning increases by 70%.
A 2021 study in Turkey that tracked the drowning incidents and bystander rescuer reports which resulted in fatal drownings, showed these situations occur in numerous ages and populations and that persons ages 15-24 show the highest risk of drowning in open water and that weekdays showed the highest incidence. Men were eight times more likely to drown in bystander attempts than women.
Drowning Is 100% Preventable
Statistically in the United States, 10 people drown each day, regardless of demographics. That said, let’s break down some demographics.
• 64% percent of African-American,
• 45% of Hispanic/Latino, and
• 40% of Caucasian children have few to no swimming skills.
Those statistics are further increased when parents have no/low swimming skills (or competence) ability; it trickles down to their children who are in turn unlikely to have proficient swimming skills. This, like compounding interest in a bank account, affects:
• 78% of African-American children,
• 62% of Hispanic/Latino children, and
• 67% of Caucasian children.
Swimming is a life skill, like learning how to cross the street or wait your turn. Because you never know if your child or grandchild will need your help. Because you never know. Because I said so.
When you know how to swim, you have dramatically increased your chances of survival.
Yes, swimming is hard, but we are not talking about competition, just yet. Who knows? If you get in the water and you notice your buoyancy and your joints start to feel better and you find yourself increasingly relaxed and hungry, well, look out!
Swimming Behooves Your Landlocked Life
• Balance and Your Brain: The water provides gentle resistance which encourages the way your brain senses your body in a space, also known as proprioception. The synchronized breathing and bilateral limb movements keep your brain firing and working that proprioception “muscle” which is required everywhere you are: home, the links, the court, in the cart, or on the mat.
• Heart and Lungs: It’s obvious what swimming, one of the very few sports besides rowing that tones the entire body, does for one’s health, physique, and state of mind. Swimming also helps to lower blood pressure and joint pain, stave atherosclerosis, and increase range of motion and flexibility.
• Crosstrain for Other Sports: The physicality and intensity of swimming creates a nearly unmatched fertile environment for meeting the demands of highly competitive spaces. The mental stamina, physical endurance, and strength requirements of swimming are without peer. In no other sport do your chances of winning depend on your ability to stay afloat.
Want one more reason? Reggie’s “Mini Triathlon” coming up next month! The event will consist of:
• Swim: 6 laps = 300 meters
• Bike: 5 miles at resistance level 10 (a solid challenge!)
• Run: 1.5 miles at 1 incline
Get ready for the Tri by joining the Adult Swim Squad! Registration can be found on the Fitness Calendar. Not feeling quite ready for a group swim class? Our lifeguards and swim instructors are Red Cross Certified and offered private lessons for swimmers of all ages and abilities. Make sure you're safe in the water and ready for what if by scheduling a swim lesson: sgcc.swimlessons@gmail.com.
Play on Our Grass Courts!
Now is your chance to play on SGCC’s exclusive grass tennis court and enjoy the luxury of Wimbledon just like the pros! This court is only available once a year following our Wimbledon Pro Exhibition, and only for SGCC Members. Reservations for this unique and exclusive experience are are available on Monday, July 14 in one-hour increments from 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM. That’s right, only 12 spots will be available!
Both adults and juniors are welcome to play on the court. Players will be equipped with a Racquets staff member to facilitate your experience; don't miss out on the champagne package!
The Lottery will be drawn at 5:00 PM on Thursday, July 10. For more information, please reach out to the Racquets Department at tennis@sgccva.org in time to be entered in the Lottery.
Notes from the Cutting Board
BY TRAVIS SIMMONS | EXECUTIVE CHEF
This month I’d like to talk about a quick, high-protein recipe that even the kids can help make—Chicken Avocado Lettuce Wraps! By this point in the summer, we’re all grilling out and at some point, we’ll have leftover grilled chicken. That chicken is perfect for this recipe.
Ingredients:
1 grilled chicken breast
1 chopped tomato
1 avocado
2 strips of cooked bacon
3 hardboiled eggs
4 sections of iceberg or leaf lettuce for the wrap
A pinch of salt & pepper
A splash of olive oil
Recipe:
1. For the hard-boiled eggs, I like to place the eggs in boiling water for 13 minutes, then immediately into an ice bath. I also like to check the eggs with what I call a coin spin. The egg will stand on end when it’s cooked inside. After the eggs are cooled, peel and roughly chop them.
2. Chop your chicken breast.
3. Dice the tomato.
4. Halve and scoop the avocado.
5. Chop the bacon strips.
6. Place all ingredients in a bowl and ask your junior chefs to lend a hand, literally! You’re going to mix and mash all your ingredients together by hand. Add the seasoning and a splash of olive oil; we’re looking for a chicken/egg salad consistency.
7. Now it's time to plate up and serve. Scoop enough filling into your lettuce wraps one by one.
8. Garnish with a few orange wedges and some strawberries. If your family likes it a bit spicy you may also add fresh chopped jalapeno to the mix. Adding jalapenos makes for a fun twist especially when you try a bite of the strawberries. Sweet, savory, and spicy all in one bite.
Get your junior chefs involved and have a great time cooking with the family!
Retirees' Corner
BY RUSTY ROESCH
It is still early in the season and despite several hard-fought losses, the SGCC Retirees are still holding on to second place in our division as of press time. Early season wins at home have made a substantial difference in our standing. Looking ahead, we have challenging home matches in July against Mount Vernon Country Club and Army Navy Arlington Country Club and away matches at Regency Country Club and Belmont Country Club. Mid-month we will play a non-league, friendly away match at Washington Golf and Country Club on Wednesday, July 16.
On May 22, we traveled to Fort Belvoir to play in very wet conditions. Unfortunately, the Springfield Retirees lost to Fort Belvoir by a score of 22½ to 13½. Jim Yates and Mark Waters won 2½ points as did Dan Rose and Brian Brodfuehrer. Jordan Weinstein and Walt Szczypinski delivered 2 points. Low gross and low net honors went to Walter Burkhardt with an impressive 77 gross (net 65). Other low net scores included Johnny Harper (69) and F.D. Rosenberger and Don Bisenius, each with
net 70’s, while Jim Yates and Travis Farris both finished with net 72’s. Springfield Retirees did manage to win three of the four sweeps awards: Jim Yates/Mark Waters placed fourth with a net 64, Steve Bartlett/F.D. Rosenberger won third place with a net 63, and Walter Burkhardt/Don Bisenius came in second place with a net 61.
The weather was awful on May 29, and it proved to be a tough day on the road. We lost a hard-fought match in very wet conditions to Hidden Creek Country Club 23½ to 12½. Jordon Weinstein and Neil Gallagher excelled by delivering 2½ points while Mark Hite/F.D. Rosenberger won 2 points. Mike Saylor played very well and delivered the low gross score for the day with a 78. F.D. Rosenberger scored the low net score for the day with a 67 while his playing partner, Mark Hite, scored a net 68. Jack Mayer also had a net 68 and John Benda had a net 71. Mark Hite/F. D. Rosenberger won the sweeps with an outstanding net 63. After a match of cards, Jack Mayer/Steve Soules captured third place, also with a net 63.
On June 5, it was a completely different story. The weather and course conditions were spectacular, and the Springfield Retirees cruised to a solid victory on our home course over Mount Vernon Country Club 24 to 12. Seven of the twelve Springfield teams won their matches, and four teams tied. Two teams excelled by delivering 3 points each: Scott Kidd/ John Benda and Bob Brien/Mark Spooner. The teams of Jim Workman/Stanley Quick and John McClelland/Robert Wooding were close behind by contributing 2½ points each. Derrick Smith (77) and Scott Kidd (79) turned in the best gross scores of the day. Five players all had net scores under 70: Bob McNamara (62), Mike Cifrino (64), Al Kuhns (68), and George Alapas (69). To cement the win, Springfield brought home all three of the sweeps awards. First place went to Scot Kidd/John Benda (net 62), second place was won by Bob McNamara/Hank Webb (net 63), and third place was earned by Derrick Smith/Steve Bartlett (net 66).
Although the weather proved to be an exceptionally good day
for golf on June 10, the Springfield Retirees lost a close match at home to Heritage Hunt Country Club 19 to 17. Their traveling team proved to be a powerful opponent on our course. The highlights of the day included Mike Saylor with Steve Barker playing great to earn 3 points. The teams of Ban Tran/Walt Szczypinski and Jordan Weinstein/Bill Wydo earned 2½ points each. Stars of the day were Mike Saylor and Ron Devine with low gross 79’s. The honors for low net score also went to Ron Devine with a 67, followed closely by F.D. Rosenberger (net 68) and Steve Soules (net 69). Jim Wilson/F.D. Rosenberger took second place in the sweeps and George Cave/Dan Rose captured fourth place.
To support highly competitive home and away matches, our Retiree Team needs fresh players every year. Note that it is never too late to join the Retirees (just be 50+ and dream about retirement). For more information on joining, please contact Bruce Nordstrom at bnorthstream@yahoo.com or call 202.494.6558.
Craft Cocktails with Chris
BY CHRIS HUGHES | BEVERAGE SPECIALIST
The summer heat is here, and refreshing cocktails are an essential addition to any gathering. When coming up with craft creations, I like to play around with classic cocktails and give them a personalized twist. Today, we will be making two customizations to a quintessential summer cocktail—the margarita. Traditionally made with tequila, agave, and lime juice, margaritas are one of the most popular summer drinks around. We will be keeping the classic base of this cocktail but changing a few things around to make fresh and unique variations of this beloved cocktail.
The Spicy Margarita
To build this, we must first start by getting our spicy tequila prepared by infusing our tequila with fresh jalapeños. I typically don’t use a high-end spirit when infusing or batching cocktails as the flavors are masked behind mixers and fruits. Jose Cuervo is a mid-level tequila that is very versatile and a great choice for infusions. Remember, not all jalapeños are equally spicy. If you are bold enough, cut a small piece of the jalapeño off and taste. This will allow you to have an idea of how spicy the batch is. The spicier the pepper, the shorter you will want your infusion to sit. A good rule of thumb is four jalapenos for a 1.75 L bottle of Cuervo.
1. Halve the jalapeños long ways and remove the seeds and veins.
2. Pour the tequila over the peppers in a large bowl or dispenser.
3. Allow the ingredients to meld for about 4 hours and give it a taste. If pleased with the spice level, strain out the peppers out. If you want spicier, then give it a couple more hours or add a habanero for the remaining couple hours. Too spicy, you can dilute with more Cuervo.
4. Combine the jalapeño-infused tequila, your favorite margarita mix, and ice in a shaker and shake well. Alternatively, consider cutting down on margarita mix and using a mango puree or pineapple juice as a partial substitute to add another level of complexity to your cocktail.
5. A Tajin rim is always a good addition for a margarita— add several healthy shakes of Tajin to a flat plate. Rim your glass with lime, then gently dip it into the Tajin before filling the glass with the cocktail.
The Strawberry Margarita
Again, we’ll keep the base of the margarita and create our signature drink by adding homemade strawberry puree.
1. Start by washing 3 pints of strawberries.
2. Next, remove the stems and halve the berries.
3. Add the prepared strawberries to a blender with 1 cup of simple syrup and ¼ cup lemon juice. The lemon juice helps the flavors pop and assists in preserving the puree for longer fridge life.
4. Pulse until the desired consistency is reached. If you want a smoother puree, add more simple syrup or water a tablespoon at a time until you are pleased with the mix.
5. In a shaker, combine your tequila, margarita mix, ice, and 1-2 ounces of your strawberry puree. Shake well and serve it up!
This puree should last two weeks in the fridge. It may need to be stirred or quickly blended again before the next use. It is also a fantastic addition to any non-alcoholic beverage: add 1-2 tablespoons to some lemonade and the kids will have a fun colorful beverage. Additionally, you can pour the puree in ice molds and use it in your cocktails. Cheers!
