There may have been snow on the ground outside, but inside Hillside Community Christian Reformed Church, 75 golfers from both the church and the neighborhood were improving their game.
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Zea, 12, gets some pointers on her golf swing from PGA pro Matt Koets at Hillside's golf clinic.
Six members of the Professional Golfers’ Association (PGA) led a free four-day clinic at the Cutlerville, Mich., church.
Each night, the church lowered large nets from the rafters of the sanctuary, creating an indoor driving range for ten golfers at a time, explained Mike Boogaard, a PGA member since 1987. Out in the foyer was a short game area with chipping and putting.
“It was a unique opportunity to invite our neighbors and friends as to have some fun, get ready for the upcoming golf season, and to see the church as a partner in the community,” said Daniel Bud, pastor of outreach and pastoral care. “We wanted to open up and show them that . . . we love to have fun and love to mix with people in the community.”
The clinic also featured a camcorders and a TV video setup that could help participants analyze their swings and learn how to improve.
“It’s a great way to work on your game when there’s a foot of snow on the ground,” said Ryan Diepstra, a member at Hillside. “We really try to reiterate that we’re a community church. We’re part of the community and our doors are open.”
About the Author
Ryan Struyk was a former Banner news correspondent for classes Grand Rapids South and Thornapple Valley.