What is your answer?

I have been on a golf course for most of my life. During that time, I have seen and heard many requests and demands from members and players. As superintendents, so many times our initial answer is NO. There are many reasons behind that, and it can be justified. But I suggest a different approach. Listen and then answer with what is best for the club, not necessarily with what is best for you.

Too often we are forced to think it’s us against the world. But remember we are not in it alone. The pro shop, the clubhouse and the restaurant are all in it together with us. We all have different objectives to hit, but we all want the club to succeed. Communication is key. Let the other departments know what you need and how you can help.

The old saying goes that you catch more flies with sugar than you can with vinegar, and it’s good to remember that. I have found that when you need the pro shop to delay that outing 15 minutes so you can finish and be off the course, they are a lot more likely to do that if you’re not complaining about them sending one single off a few minutes early. Remember their job is member satisfaction. Small things can go a long way in making that happen. Here are a few policies we have put into effect that allow us to work seamlessly:

Early morning play

Players are allowed to play before the first tee time with the knowledge that the grounds crew will not stop for them. I tell my crew that no cart means no stop.

Carts

Our job is to maintain an impeccable golf course and carts don’t help. But it is important to remember that it is not our golf course, it’s theirs. Our job is not to stop them from playing but to make sure we get as many rounds as we can. I only stop carts if most of them will be causing damage, not if they’re the exception.

Weddings

They can be a pain with tents, high heels and drinks, but let’s remember they make the course a lot of revenue. That little inconvenience might just buy you a new piece of equipment. I have also found that most people don’t even blink at a surcharge for having the wedding on turf.

Projects

Some are good, some are bad, and that’s where our knowledge needs to be communicated. Don’t be afraid to try new things or ask for help. There is a wealth of knowledge out there and the answer can be a lot easier than you think. All we can do is lay out the pros and cons of each and remember that, again, this is their golf course and not ours.

Requests

We have all heard them, from ball washers to yardage markers. Some have merit, some are a waste. Take the time to listen to why they are asking for it. Sometimes a different option is available to solve their issue. Most of our ball washers have been removed, although some remain because that is what the members want.

These are just some things we have done to help the club and our department bring in more revenue and provide superior member satisfaction. I always try to keep an open mind and strive to make the club more successful. That often helps my department in getting the time or resources that we need to get our course in the best shape it can be.

Sometimes the answer is still NO, but sometimes the answer that is best for the club just might be … YES.

David Morrow is the superintendent at Wolferts Roost Country Club in Albany, New York. This is his first Turfheads Take Over contribution.