Michigan Golf Journal November 2021

colors that have been associated with both genders. “Having six tees gives our guests the ability to play that ‘combo’ tee option and have fun,” he added. “Four of our courses are between 4,100 and 4,500 yards from the Silver tees. And, we decreased our course watering by 50% in fairways so that the grass is firmer, which results in a golf ball going further. It’s a lot more fun to hit an 8-iron than a 4-iron and this gives players the chance to feel good about their game and not become discouraged.” For avid women seniors who wish to post legal scores, options are scarce. They can play from the shortest forward tees to greens they cannot reach, and watch scores rise. Or they can play from junior or family tees, unrated for them, and not post those scores. Washtenaw Golf Club in Ypsilanti had better ideas: After playing with his many students, Operating Partner and Michigan Golf Hall of Fame member Dave Kendall took action. “It became evident the most forward tees were too long to provide a pleasant experience for my players,” he said. “Moving them to the beginning of the fairway helps make the game more welcoming to all. As golf course operators, we should do everything we can to broaden the appeal of golf to as many as possible.” MGJ Tee it Forward