Many a Green Section Record article has been written discussing the need for golfers to take better care of the course they play, and no doubt more will come in the future. However, it is equally important to recognize that many players care a great deal about "their" course to the point of spending their own time, labor, and money to help with the upkeep. An excellent example comes from the Club at Sonterra in San Antonio, Texas. On Friday, April 22, 2011 the club held a divot filling party from 5:30 to 7:00 PM on their North course. More than 50 members showed up for the event, and, in less than two hours, filled divots throughout the course. The club provided the tools, divot mix, and a demonstration of the proper method of ball mark repair. There also was a refreshment wagon for the volunteers at work, followed by a fish fry on the club's patio where "divot-fillers" enjoyed a discounted meal. In addition to improving the playing quality of the course, this activity builds member pride in the club as a whole.
The Green Section would like to recognize such efforts and share them in the Record in the hope that other players will follow suit. If you have an example of the good work done by golfers assisting in golf course maintenance, drop us a line so that we can give credit where credit is due! Include a picture or two along with a short description of how the players at your golf course contribute to its care to Jim Moore at jmoore@usga.org.