DESIGN & SHAPE

Proper Golf champions the philosophy that design must evolve in the field. Having a great idea is one thing, but putting the time and effort in to see it all the way through is another. Every golf course, individual hole, and even feature has countless problems waiting to be solved. Finding the best solutions can only be done by actively participating in the construction process. I pride myself on a highly involved Design/Shape process that I have made my own after years of working onsite for Gil Hanse and Tom Doak.

Every golf course is different, so the design process is tailored to the individual needs of each project. Getting to know the client, the course, and the objectives is essential. It is important to meet early and often, as a plan is developed to build trust, excitement, and long-term relationships. Working as a team with the golf course superintendent, committee members, and club officials is an important part of the process. To gain the support of the membership, detailed plans, on-course walk throughs with committees, presentations, and working with the club on budget estimates are just the beginning. I will work hard to meet the goals in the conceptual design and planning stage, then the true artistry happen outside.

Building golf courses is my passion. I love being on site, on the machines, and getting the details right. I take a lot of pride in the art of shaping and creating fun, interesting golf in the dirt. There is so much satisfaction in taking what started as idea, sculpting it with your own hands, and putting in every last detail. My highly involved process allows me to best execute the exact vision for the project. I will be 100% hands on during the shaping process from start to finish. Building high quality golf requires nothing less.

Shaping is a blend of artwork, and problem solving. It must stand up to Mother Nature, regular maintenance, and create an interesting strategic challenge every day. Whether it is adding a small wrinkly contour with a rake just before seeding, bunkering into an existing scrubby sand dune, or delicately tracing the sandlines of a lost bunker from the golden age with an excavator, every step in this creative process is taken to ensure the long-term success of the project.