The Holland Sentinel reported that former MSU and current Minnesota Viking Quarterback, Kirk Cousins and his wife purchased Clearbrook Golf Course in Saugatuck from previous owners, Jim and Candy Jeltema. Cousins grew up in Holland wanted to keep the golf course in the community.
“West Michigan is a special community, and we have enjoyed living in Saugatuck/Douglas since we built our home here in 2018,” Kirk and Julie wrote in a letter to local residents. “As Jim reflected on his future, he wanted to keep the golf course in the community. As we discussed the history of the golf club with Jim, we agreed it is a community treasure and should remain a golf course for the next generation.”
“Our family would prefer it not become a housing development or summer rental community. We want to invest in this great community, and we see this purchase as an opportunity to do just that, maintaining the life of a golf course that has been in place since 1926.”
The Jeltema’s will continue to oversee day-to-day operations, plus the sale did not include the Grill Room restaurant.
The course first opened in 1926 and can be stretched to 6556 yards. The 131 slope suggests a stern test for every level of golfer with an assortment of intriguing holes. Various water hazards await to swallow errant golf balls and the ever-present meandering “clear brook” creates additional challenges.
Clearbrook also includes s driving range, two putting greens, a chipping green, a practice bunker and a renowned restaurant and bar.
Some changes and upgrades to the course are in the planning stages, but no major changes are anticipated.
In his four years at MSU Cousins played in 45 games and threw for 66 touchdowns. In 2011, with him directing the team, MSU was 7-3, played in the first-ever BIG Ten Championship game and beat Georgia in the Outback Bowl.
Selected in the fourth round of the 2012 NFL draft, Cousins is in his 11th NFL season. He was with the Washington Commanders for six years before signing a free agent deal with Minnesota in 2018.
