Golf & Networking in a Tweet Filled World

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Everyone thinks that they are so connected to everyone else, but is that really the case? We bounce from Facebook posts to Instagram pictures to Twitter feeds all day long, but is this really building lifelong friendships? I personally struggle with this because I love talking to our members one-on-one in person and on the phone everyday. It is those conversations were the rapport is created, trust is built, and where knowledge is passed back and forth, yet I find myself spending too much time following the random posts that clog my inbox each day.

At Chequamegon Bay Golf Club, we strive to provide our members and guests a great EXPERIENCE, and I take that very seriously. I have always envisioned a membership at any golf club as a sharing network were dedicated and passionate people from all different industries and walks of life can come to enjoy playing the game of golf. Sharing stories add as much if not more to the experience as shooting your best round does.

Robert Louis Stevenson may have said it best: “Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap, but by the seeds you plant.” When it comes to networking, you can plant a lot of seeds on the golf course. Whether you are a scratch golfer or a total beginner, you can learn a lot and meet some great people through leagues, tournaments, or just joining up with a group of strangers on a busy weekend. Sure, the golf itself is valuable, but for many golfers it is the contacts and conversations that leave a lasting impression on their lives.

On the golf course I have had or witnessed lifelong friendships formed, new jobs found, careers shift for the better, moods swing from sad to happy just from enjoying a little sunshine, and that is just through one round.

Even if you are unable to join a league or play in a tournament, try playing with someone who you normally wouldn’t play golf with on a Saturday. Hey, you already have a passion for golf in common. If you are new to the game and thinking about trying golf, and how to improve, join a workshop or group clinic. It will help to both grow your knowledge and grow your personal network. YouTube videos and Facebook posts will provide information, but it will always take a village of connections to make great strides.

A relationship moves to a completely different level when you spend time face to face. A hundred text messages are not as meaningful as playing golf with someone.

This reminds me of a story from when I was in college. A professor asked us to take a blank sheet of paper and write down our overall net worth. Answers included bank account balances, stocks and bonds, real estate, and other possessions. He then told us to toss out that paper and write down our overall net worth beyond possessions. He drew a lot of blank stares.

Our professor then asked us to consider the value of our personal networks – our friends, connections, colleagues, classmates, family, neighbors, and members from any associations we were in at the time. He then said to assign $100 to each acquaintance, $1,000 to classmates and association members, $10,000 to co-workers and neighbors, and $100,000 to family members. Our calculations all rose north of 1 million dollars. While only an academic exercise, it does remind us that we undervalue the relationships in our lives. Cultivating more and deeper relationships can have a huge affect on the harvest you reap in your life. Never stop building your personal network, and we’ll do our best to help grow it each day on the golf course.

-Matthew Lindberg

The Meaning Of Being A Coach

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As a coach and teacher, no matter the sport, you are a role model whether you like it or not. Each day of work I try to embrace that challenge, and do my best to set a great example. Which brings me to Michigan State’s Basketball Coach, Tom Izzo. One of the most enjoyable days I ever had was during an event at Oakland Hills Country Club in 2008. We did an after-dinner fireside chat that year and the General Manager of the club asked the legendary basketball coach, if he would join us to talk about coaching and tell a few stories. We had packed the dining room at the clubhouse with over 300 members in attendance. I was interested, not because I’m a Michigan State fan, (Go Blue) but because coach Izzo is a Yooper. He grew up in Iron Mt., MI, attended Northern Michigan University, and got his start in coaching at Ishpeming High School.

One recollection that stands out from that evening is the fact that Coach Izzo was so kind to everyone he spoke with. He was gracious with his time, meeting with the entire golf staff all the way down to the caddies at the course. I remember seeing our GM shake hands with coach Izzo, who in an upbeat voice said “Thanks for inviting me, what would you like me to do?” It was one of those moments when we just knew instantly we were going to have a very good night. As it turned out it was better than that. Coach Izzo turned our planned 45-minute “chat” into about an hour and a half and after that he stayed for another hour signing autographs and taking pictures with just about every single person in the room. To be honest, I couldn’t tell you exactly what he talked about that night when it came to his coaching secrets or his basketball stories, but I remember vividly the way he was revered by everyone in the room and the way he made everyone feel like they were his long lost cousins. Nobody left the room that night without being truly inspired at what one coach with the best intentions could accomplish.

After he spoke that night I was so intrigued by his presence that I did some research. What I found was a man of uncommon integrity and decency who does whatever he can to elevate those around him. He is deeply involved each day in making his players better people. It is not just teaching basketball, but grooming college boys to become gentlemen. Every day coaches can have a similar influence on their students, especially juniors. As a role model, golf coaches benefit by associating with a game that thrives on integrity, discipline and focus. Upon recently watching the Final Four games, and remembering listening to coach Izzo, I was reminded of the bond people feel for the truly great coaches in their lives. I hope every coach will embrace this responsibility, as it is what separates coaching from just giving golf lessons in my industry. I strive to do more than just give lessons.

-Matthew Lindberg

Golf Fitness Is For All Of Us

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Fitness and golf are currently blending together like peanut butter and jelly both on the PGA Tour, and at local golf courses. On the PGA Tour, professionals are utilizing strict strength and cardio training schedules to try and stay one step ahead of their competition. Many professionals are training with golf specific fitness instructors, assuring that each muscle worked does nothing but benefit the golf swing. These demanding fitness regimens are commonplace on Tour, but what about the 99% of golfers who are not professional? Can they too benefit from golf fitness?

The answer is a resounding YES! Golf fitness is for all of us, and can especially benefit us, as we get older. I remember my first boss Pat Croswell would say “I can’t go from the pro shop to the first tee anymore” every time we would play golf after work. As he got older it became even more important that he develop a better fitness routine both before the round and away from the golf course. I am not saying that older golfers should start squatting 300 lbs. like Rory Mcilroy. I am saying that older golfers should adopt a good warm up and a few good exercises to stay healthy and hopefully play better.

Adopting a good warm up will help to keep injury away, and hopefully help you play better. Here are some warm-up tips to help you play healthier.

Stretch:

Stretching has many benefits, and according to the Titleist Performance Institute is greatly under utilized. Older golfers need more time to loosen their muscles, particularly the core and back areas. Be sure to research and use your favorite back and core stretches before your next round. Away from the golf course, jogging, jumping rope, or swimming are all great ways to keep good cardiovascular health.

Use the Range:

            Taking a few practice swings before ripping a driver off the first tee simply isn’t enough the older you get. Take the time to hit a few range balls before your next round, as it will help to loosen the neck, shoulders, core, and hips. Hit some higher lofted irons to instill muscle memory and engrain some positive thoughts before the round.

Walk, Walk, Walk:

            Pass on the golf cart. Walking burns more calories, works the heart and lungs, and helps to build core muscles that really help the golf swing. You need not carry your bag, as there are many great pushcarts on the market today. You can also rent one at your local golf course. Walking the golf course is great exercise that your body will reward you for.

Whether you are using a strict fitness regimen to get better at golf, or using golf to better your fitness, the two do blend together like peanut butter and jelly. If you have a fitness or weight loss goal for 2016, the golf course is a great place to accomplish it, as the average person will burn over 900 calories walking one round. Remember to warm-up, and contact your local PGA Professional and/or health professional for some great exercises for golf. How many holes will you play in 2016?

-Matthew Lindberg

 

Course Now Open!!

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The golf course is now open. All 18 holes are open with golf carts!!

ADDMATT Program

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ADDMATT is a personal golf instruction program, developed and instructed by Matthew Lindberg, PGA. It is designed to get results. Matt personally stands behind the results, and guarantees to get you to your desired level of play.

ADDMATT is a coaching program, not just a one on one lesson. Instead of paying for time, you pay for results. For more information please visit www.mattypga.com, or see Matthew Lindberg @ the CBGC Golf Shop.

 

Member Form

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CHEQUAMEGON BAY GOLF CLUB, INC. – 2016 Membership Form

*2016 membership includes reciprocal discount greens/cart fee of $35.00 at Apostle Highlands Golf Course, Hayward Golf Club, & Lakewood’s Resort

Pass Holders also receive discounts at over 50 UPGA golf courses in MI, WI, and Canada.

 

Name: ___________________________ Email: _________________________ Phone: ______________________      

 

                                                                                                                                                                                    CATEGORY               

SEASON MEMBERSHIP                                                                                                                         SUMMARY                TOTAL DUE

Single                          Couple                       Family

$975.00                    $1,325.00                 $1,475.00                                   $_________

 

Discounts:

Elk Member               $75.00                       $75.00                       $75.00                                         ($_________)

 

 

SPECIAL SEASON MEMBERSHIP (no other discounts apply)

ONE (1) YEAR INTRODUCTORY SEASON PASS (no other discounts apply)

                                    Eligible for new pass holders or golfers that have not purchased a season pass since 2011

 

Single                          Couple                       Family

$700.00                    $1,100.00                 $1,250.                                        $__________

 

YOUTH & YOUNG ADULT SPECIAL SEASON MEMBERSHIP (no other discounts apply)

                                                      18 years old & under – $99.00                                                                       $__________

19-21 years old – $300.00                                                                              $__________

Single 22-28 years old – $500.00                                                                  $__________

Couple/Family 22-28 years old – $750.00                                                   $__________

(age as of May 1 2016)

NET MEMBERSHIP TOTAL:                                                                                                                                                                       $_____________

 

CART LEASE              

Single                          Couple

$650.00                    $750.00                                                                          $ _________

Discounts:

Elk Member               $25.00                       $25.00                                                                             ($__________

NET SEASON CART LEASE TOTAL:                                                                                                                                                             $_____________

 

RANGE PASS             Single                          Couple                       Family

$200.00                    $290.00                    $330.00                                      $_________

 

NET SEASON RANGE PASS TOTAL:                                                                                                                                                         $ ____________

 

TOTAL ALL NET SEASON PASS FEES:                                                                                                                     $ ___________”A”

ADDITIONAL DISCOUNTS IF APPLICABLE

Less: Pay prior to 3/31/16 Discount                      (if applicable)                                               -$50.00

TOTAL ADDITIONAL DISCOUNTS                                                                                                                                                             ($_____________)”B”

 

TOTAL ALL SEASON PASS FEES AFTER APPLICABLE DISCOUNTS (“A” MINUS “B”)                                                           $_____________

 

 

Extended Payment Options (#1 payment option still qualifies for the early bird discount) (#2 does not qualify)

  1. Pay 50% of total by 2/28/16 and 50% by 3/31/16; OR
  2. Make 4 equal installments of 1/4rd of total cost by 3/31, 4/30, 5/31, and 6/30… We must keep your credit card on file for this option.

Callaway Demo Day

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We have a Callaway Demo Day Scheduled for Saturday June 4th from 10am to 2pm @ CBGC.

Hit the latest Callaway equipment and compare it up against your current gamer.

Stay tuned for more information on this event in the upcoming weeks.

Thanks,

Matthew Lindberg, PGA

Ladies League To Start @ CBGC

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Not your average golf league

Not so great at golf? Pretty good, but want to get better? Want to show off your mad skills? Or maybe you just want to have some fun? This league is for you! Every Monday night we’ll get together at the Chequamegon Bay Golf Club around 5. Each week will be different featuring new games, new friends, and a different theme. Prizes each week will vary from longest putt to best socks! The goal of this league is to have a little fun, meet new friends, enjoy the sun, and maybe improve our golf games. Want to learn more join us on one of the following dates.

Open House: Apr 11th Join us for a night full of fun, games, and information on our new league!

Pre Golf Workshops: Apr 18th, Apr 25th, May 2 Join us on these days to improve your skills and meet other golfers.

League Begins: May 9th

Check out our Facebook page for updates: www.facebook.com/AshlandLadiesGolfLeague

…

 

 

This league is sponsored by the fun loving women at JET Travel and Tours, and The Safari Bar. Got a question? Feel free to ask Matt at the golf course or any of the girls at JET Travel.

  

Weekly games!

 

Fun Prizes!

 

Swag bag for every participant.

 

No commitment, come when you can.

 

Unique theme every week.
 

Chequamegon bay golf club

3000 Golf Course Rd. Ashland, WI 54806
715-682-8004

www.cbaygolf.com

 

What to Eat During Your Next Round of Golf

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Choosing what to eat on the golf course is really quite simple. Control the balance of your blood sugar and insulin levels and you will have consistent performance.

The Science:

            According to The Titleist Performance Institute, whenever we eat, our blood sugar levels increase. Our body loves equilibrium, therefore balances the rising blood sugar with insulin. So how do we control blood sugar? Our body does not know how many calories are in a food, so it relies upon taste. If something tastes sweet to us, our body will release insulin to combat the sugar onslaught. We get the initial high from the sugar, but crash once the insulin takes effect. More sugar will cause a bigger crash, and will also increase the craving for sugar. Foods that taste bland however, will cause the body to release less insulin. The key being, to eat food that gives us instant energy, and continues to slowly release energy until we eat again. Eating healthy foods at regular intervals is how to keep blood sugar and insulin levels balanced.

The Dose:

            Through research and experience I’d recommend carrying 3 snacks. One consumed right before the round, one after hole 6, and one after hole 12. If you mix the healthy snacks with a bottle of water you will be in good shape to play your best. I’d also recommend carrying a high glycemic snack like a Snickers bar for emergency purposes only. This should only be used with 3 holes left and if absolutely needed, as you are guaranteed a sugar crash within 10 minutes after the round. If you fuel with the appropriate snacks throughout the round, you will not feel the need to dip into the emergency snack. So, what should one eat on the golf course?

The Choices:

Ideally I’d like to recommend a grass fed beef steak, with a spinach salad covered with avocado, tomatoes, and olive oil with lemon dressing. This is unrealistic to carry in a golf bag however. We need foods that can resist heat, do not require refrigeration, are easily digestible, and readily accessible.

Birdie:

  • Water: 3 bottles minimum
  • Apple and Individually wrapped cheese
  • Almonds with Raisins
  • Beef Jerky
  • Peanuts/Banana
  • Hard Broiled Egg
  • Celery, Carrots

Par:

  • Water/ Sports Drink mix
  • PB&J Sandwich
  • Protein Bar
  • Dried Fruit

Bogey:

  • Sports Drink
  • Chocolate Bar
  • Granola Bar

            If you really want to gain an advantage and play your best, what you eat during your next round could make all the difference.

Golf Growing Among Women, Juniors

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With more rounds of golf played in the United States last year, along with a major increase in youth and women golfers, golf’s future looks bright. This parallel momentum was noticed at Chequamegon Bay Golf Club last season. Our junior golf school grew substantially over the previous season, and women participated in much greater numbers in 2015. Growth within these two demographics is a big change for a sport that has been dominated by adult male golfers for many years.

For years the golf industry focused on its best customers, which resulted in extraordinary success. However, the golf industry, like other industries focusing on a narrow consumer base, fell victim to its own success. This early prosperity lead the golf industry to build its language and culture around men. Today, there is a huge opportunity for golf professionals and industry insiders to use their skills and customer service ability and ADAPT them to welcome a new audience.

In 2013 women represented 16.6% of all golfers. In 2015 that number increased to 22.6% of all golfers. Programs like “Get Golf Ready” are introducing women to the game, and creating a comfortable environment for them to learn in a group setting. Many golf courses are also creating women’s leagues focused on a fun social setting, rather than the male driven competition aspect. Events such as a wine and nine, with partners drawn from a hat, focus on building relationships rather than simply being competitive. These social rounds of golf are gaining momentum and bringing more women to the golf course.

Junior golf is also on the rise. Juniors playing golf rose by 500,000 from 2010-2015, outpacing almost every other major sport. PGA Junior Golf League is a major contributor, creating a Little League environment on the golf course. Junior golfers are given uniforms and compete in a team setting. This program has been a huge success, growing over 233% from 2013 to 2015.

As a PGA member I wake up each day trying to bring the sport of golf to life. It is our job as members to grow the game and seeing more women and juniors playing golf is crucial to the games overall health and success.

 

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