| A Conversation With |
| - Superintendent of Beavercreek Golf Club - Eric Conley |
| Looking ahead to the Metropolitan Championship, June 22 - 25, Superintendent at Beavercreek Golf Club, Eric Conley, shared some insight about the details of the course and the turf crew's preparations for the event. His Background Before joining Beavercreek as superintendent in 2021, Conley worked at several prominent local clubs, including Springfield CC, Scioto CC, Moraine CC, Sycamore Creek CC, and NCR CC. His time at each facility helped shape his understanding of golf course maintenance, giving him a strong appreciation for the behind-the-scenes efforts of turf crews and the skills required to successfully lead an operation as a head superintendent. Renovations and Sustainability Over the past few years, Beavercreek has been renovating their bunkers to improve the drainage and the overall performance when faced with heavy rain. Some bunkers were removed that were not in play and the current bunkers were reshaped to be more conducive to maintenance and raking. Players will see not only aesthetic differences, but also notice an improvement in playability with smooth, firm banks as a key feature. Beavercreek is also certified through Audubon International's Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses (ACSP for Golf), which promotes environmental stewardship and sustainable golf course management. As part of the program, the club follows established environmental practices designed to protect and enhance the natural ecosystem surrounding the course. These efforts include providing wildlife habitats such as birdhouses, utilizing slow-release fertilizers, monitoring water use, and implementing other sustainable maintenance practices that support the long-term health of the environment. Metropolitan Preparations In the upcoming weeks, the turf crew will be working to increase green speeds, cutting the rough higher and focusing on the first cut around the greens. Conley emphasized that he wants the course to play true and provide players with an accurate depiction of what makes the course both special and challenging. For Conley, the most rewarding part of the job is the people. He credits Beavercreek's positive team environment and dedicated maintenance staff for the course's success. Seeing the results of their hard work each day is especially gratifying, but the team's focus extends beyond turf conditions. Their mission is to provide golfers with the best experience possible by delivering a course that looks great, plays well, and is enjoyable for players of all skill levels. Conley and his team are looking forward to hosting the Metropolitan Championship later this month and "showcasing what Beavercreek has to offer." |
Miami Valley Golf is a mission-driven 501 (c) 3 organization dedicated to uniting the community through foundational programs and initiatives. We support the game by providing handicapping services, course rating, and meaningful playing opportunities while championing philanthropic efforts like Youth on Course, High School Golf Stewardship, and Golf, My Future, My Game among many others. Our work focuses on advancing the game’s sustainability, accessibility, and inclusivity, fostering wellness and community connection. As an Impact-First Charitable nonprofit, we are committed to transparency and ensuring golf’s enduring impact for current and future generations. For more, visit miamivalleygolf.org |
