Springfield Golf & Country Club
2025 Board of Directors
John Astorino
President john.astorino@longandfoster.com
Bob Sampson Vice President bsampson71@gmail.com
Tom Stribling Secretary tjstribling@gmail.com
Dan McCarthy Treasurer danm5691@gmail.com
David DeLorenzo david.delorenzo@gmail.com
Joe English jenglish@bsbllc.com
David Kelly davidnkelly@verizon.net
Charles Rolen rolencw@gmail.com
Harrison Smith hharrisonsmith@gmail.com
2025 Committees
Audit
Dave Nachison dnachison@yahoo.com
Communications
Katie Kissal katiekissal@gmail.com
Facilities & Maintenance
Peter Vogt gmte1e6@verizon.net
Finance
Dan McCarthy danm5691@gmail.com
Fitness
Gayle Burgoyne gayleburgoyne@aol.com
Food & Beverage
John Palladino jape199@aol.com
Golf
Matt Lougheed matthew.lougheed@gmail.com
David Kelly davidnkelly@verizon.net
Golf Rules
Bruce Nordstrom bnorthstream@yahoo.com
Charles Rolen rolencw@gmail.com
Greens
Tom Stribling tjstribling@gmail.com
Dan Derisio dderisio@yahoo.com
House John Palladino jape199@aol.com
Membership
Johnny Garstka johnnygarstka2024@gmail.com
Charles Rolen rolencw@gmail.com
Personnel
Bob Sampson bsampson71@gmail.com
Racquets
Staci Goede staci.goede@gmail.com
Harrison Smith hharrisonsmith@gmail.com
Social Natalee Siveroni nataleesiveroni@gmail.com
Marie Denslow a93aggie@gmail.com
Strategic Planning
David DeLorenzo david.delorenzo@gmail.com
Swim/Pool
Mike Goede goedes@me.com
Board Report
BY JOHN ASTORINO | BOARD PRESIDENT
The new year is a time of beginnings, hope, and possibility. I am honored and pleased to serve the Membership as the President of the Board of Directors. I began volunteering at the Club many years ago as a way to give back to the community that has come to mean so much to me, and I thank you for the continued opportunity to do so.
I would like to thank David DeLorenzo for his many years of service as Board President. He helped our community navigate through challenging times and I am excited to continue working with him. I would also like to thank outgoing Board members Caitlin Clark, Mike Cozad, and Tom Davis for their time and dedication over the years.
To our newest members of the Board David Kelly, Harrison Smith, and Tom Stribling as well as all of our new and returning Committee Chairs, welcome! I look forward to working with you and utilizing your expertise and insight toward our common goal of making Springfield the best it can be by always striving to improve while taking the time to recognize and appreciate what is being done right.
During my time as Vice President, I also served as Chair of the Personnel Committee. This gave me the opportunity to get to know our Management team and Department Heads and understand the unique challenges each of them faces as well as their passion for the work they do. We are blessed to have such an incredibly talented and dedicated Staff, and I know they are hard at work thinking up ways to build upon the successes of 2024 and provide the Membership with the best possible experience. This month alone has junior day camps, trivia nights, the start of the Men’s and Women’s Singles Club Championships, the Indoor Pickleball Club Championship, and Brunch Bingo.
The start of calendar year comes during the last quarter of our Fiscal Year. The Staff has been working diligently to develop and refine their budgets, including presenting them to both the Finance and Strategic Planning Committees. The Board
will be reviewing and approving the final draft of the budget in the coming weeks. As always, we will work to balance fiscal responsibility, the wants and needs of the Membership, and the long-term vision of our Club.
In that vein, I encourage all Members with golf privileges to sign up for and participate in the upcoming Driving Range Renovation Focus Group on Tuesday, January 14. This will be an important evening of open and honest discussion revolving around what a renovation to the Driving Range could look like and how it might be funded. Many of you shared your input in the Member Satisfaction Survey, and I urge you to continue to be part of the discussion.
The future of Springfield is bright, and I look forward to all the wonderful events, programs, and memories 2025 has to offer. Happy New Year!
Meet Your Board. . .
John Astorino joined SGCC in 1999 and has loved watching his family grow up at the Club over the years. He fondly remembers bringing them to events like the annual Independence Day Picnic when they were young children, and he recently got to enjoy bringing his grandchildren for Santa Brunch.
Golf is John’s passion, and he runs the 9-5 group which is both fun and competitive. One of his favorite Club events is the Fall Member/Guest which was introduced a couple of years ago and spans two days in late September. While he loves golf, John says hanging out with his friends is the best part of spending time at the Club: “The Membership is what makes the Club. It’s an extension of my home and a place to relax and have fun with friends and family. And with new Members joining each year, those friendships keep growing and expanding.”
Over the years, John has found myriad ways to give back to SGCC. His first opportunity came early on when he served as the Junior Golf Chair. He loves seeing people he knew as children in the junior golf program who are now adults and belong to the Club as Legacy Members. His first stint on the Board began in 2004 and he served another two full terms while also joining the Membership Committee. He left the Board in 2012, but ran again in 2020, was elected, then re-elected in 2023, and served as Vice President from January 2022 through December 2024. He begins his term as Board President this month and looks forward to continuing to serve our wonderful community.
Bob Sampson joined SGCC in 1997. He and his significant other, Debbie Bird, are often at the Club enjoying spending time with their friends and family. Bob has many fond memories of the Club. He hosted his mother’s 90th birthday party here and enjoys playing golf with his grandchildren and watching them develop a love for the game.
Golf is an important part of Bob’s Membership experience. He plays in the Twilight League and has a regular Friday golf group he looks forward to hitting the course with each week. The 3 Day Member/ Guest is one of his favorite events hosted by the Club. Bob is also a frequent visitor at the Fitness Center and Pool. He and Debbie love the sense of community at SGCC as well as the Club’s relaxed environment and friendly atmosphere.
Bob was elected to the Board of Directors in 2018 and has been re-elected twice. He served as Board Treasurer and Chair of the Finance Committee from January 2019 through December 2024, and served on the Strategic Planning Committee for several years. Bob begins his term as Vice President this month and looks forward to serving the Membership in this new capacity.
Tom Stribling joined SGCC in 1998. Over the years, the Striblings have enjoyed playing the golf course, utilizing the Fitness Center, spending days by the pool, eating meals in the dining room, and attending the annual Independence Day Picnic. “My family and extended family can always use the Club as a great place to get together and have a good time,” says Tom.
Tom is an active part of our golf community. He is the Co-Captain of the B Team and plays on the A Team and in the Senior Scratch golf league as well. When asked what he loves most about the Club, Tom’s answer is an easy one: “The Membership and competing in golf leagues and events. Playing on several golf teams has given me exposure to other clubs, and our Membership really sets us apart.”
Tom previously served on the Board of Directors from January of 2020 through the end of his term in December of 2022, and has served on both the Greens and Golf Committees since 2020. He will serve as Co-Chair of the Greens Committee this year and is excited to begin a new term on the Board serving as Secretary.
Dan McCarthy joined SGCC in 1999. He likes playing golf, socializing with his friends, and spending time with his family at the Club. He plays in the Tuesday Night League, is on the B Team, and is an alternate for Senior Scratch. His wife, Tracy, is an avid tennis player and has played on several of SGCC’s tennis teams. The McCarthys have been to most SGCC social events over the tenure of their Membership and while they’ve rarely come across an event they didn’t enjoy, the 3 Day Member/ Guest is by far Dan’s favorite due to how well it is executed every year.
While he loves to golf, the thing Dan loves most about belonging to the Club is the warm, welcoming, friendly attitude of the Members: “You feel the acceptance and warm welcome from the moment you step on the property. Tracy and I have made dozens of lifelong friends over the years at the Club.”
Dan first served on the Board from January 2018 through December 2020, including as Vice President for the last two years of his term. He was re-elected in 2023 and will begin his term as Treasurer this month as well as serving as on the Strategic Planning Committee and as Chair of the Finance Committee. He is excited to continue to contribute to the positive trajectory of the Club.
David DeLorenzo joined SGCC in 2017. Watching his children grow up at the Club, forge friendships, and create lifelong memories has been one of the most rewarding aspects of membership. Whether it’s golf, swimming, pickleball, or simply relaxing on the patio during a quiet evening, the DeLorenzo family embraces all that SGCC has to offer. David’s children are long-time members of the junior swim team, the Sea Lions, and he has recently discovered a love for pickleball to complement his passion for golf.
For David, a typical visit to the Club often includes hanging out with friends, meeting new people, and enjoying conversations about golf, sports, travel, and family. The Club is a place where connections thrive, and he appreciates the opportunity to build friendships in such a welcoming environment. “The sense of community at SGCC is truly unparalleled,” says David. “It’s a place where so many Members feel like it’s an extension of their family. I can show up at any time and always feel welcome, knowing I’ll see familiar faces and share meaningful moments with others.”
David’s dedication to SGCC extends beyond his personal enjoyment; he has served on the Board since January 2020. As Vice President in 2021 and Board President from January 2022 through December 2024, he worked to strengthen the Club’s governance, foster strategic planning, and maintain a focus on ensuring SGCC remains a vibrant and exceptional community. He has also contributed to the Strategic Planning Committee for several years, and will serve as Chair in 2025, helping guide SGCC’s future projects and objectives.
Looking forward, David is excited to continue serving the Club in various capacities to ensure its legacy of excellence in vision, management, services, and community. As he often reflects, “Anything worth doing is worth doing right,” and his commitment to SGCC exemplifies this principle.
Joe English joined SGCC in 2001. He and his family regularly utilize the golf facilities and social aspects of the Club, including attending events and dining in the Grill Room and on the Patio. Joe served as Chair of the Audit Committee many years. He began his term on the Board in January 2023, and currently serves on the Finance Committee and Strategic Planning Committee.
Continued on page 6
David Kelly joined SGCC in 2011. Some of the things David loves most about the Club are the friendly atmosphere, unique experiences, and opportunities to forge long-lasting friendships. He also appreciates the strength of the Club’s junior golf program, in which his son participated, as well having a regular place to enjoy family dinners.
In recent years, David has taken a more active role in SGCC activities, including serving as Chairman of the Golf Committee since January 2022. He looks forward to beginning his term on the Board this month and helping shape the future of the Club.
Charles Rolen joined SGCC in 2017. The Club plays a central role in his family’s life, and they are actively involved in many different aspects of the Club including golf, the Retirees, the Senior B Team, swimming, water aerobics, the Fitness Center, and the Friday night couples bridge group. He’s retired; therefore, you can see him at the Club almost every day.
Charles currently serves as a Board Member for the Virginia State Golf Association’s (VSGA) Competition Committee. He’s also a USGA certified Golf Rules Official, and routinely officiates at numerous VSGA events, US Open Regional Qualifiers, State High School Championships, VA Open and Amateur Championships, VA Women’s Amateur Championships, as well as the Bobby Bowers Memorial Junior Golf Tournament.
Charles began serving on the Board in January 2023. He has served on the Rules Committee for several years, and previously served on the Golf Committee. This year he’ll Co-Chair the Membership Committee.
Harrison Smith joined SGCC in 2019. The Smiths are avid golfers and participate in Club tournaments, Couples Golf, PGA Jr. League, and Operation 36 clinics. The family makes full use of their membership by participating in tennis clinics and playing on interclub tennis teams, attending summer camp, swimming on the swim team, and taking full advantage of the fitness and pool facilities. They also enjoy Club social events like Trivia Night and family movie nights.
The sense of camaraderie and support amongst the Membership is what Harrison loves most about the Club: “Whether it’s genuine interest in your personal and professional life shown during a conversation, or a willingness to help find a lost pair of swim goggles or a putter head cover, most people will go out of their way to help each other at Springfield. It’s a wonderful thing.”
Harrison began serving on the Finance Committee in 2021 and joined the Strategic Planning Committee in 2023. This year, he will also Co-Chair the Racquets Committee. He is looking forward to beginning his term on the Board of Directors this month.
Celebrating 65 Years of SGCC
As we begin our 65th anniversary year, here is look back on some of the logos we’ve had since the Club’s founding in 1960. If you have interesting information and/or photographs from the Club’s early years, or any stories and memories you’d like to share from your time at Springfield, please reach out to Emily Kauffman, Director of Communications, at emily@sgccva.org and Katie Kissal, Communications Committee Chair, at katiekissal@gmail.com.
SGCC: Your Personal Resort
BY MOLLY FIELD | COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE
What do you think it means to belong to SGCC?
Some of us see the Club as a space to hit the gym on the way to or from work. For other Members, the Club is where they unwind—on the links, on the courts, in a fitness class, or at the pool during the summer months. Perhaps it’s where you go to play Mahjongg in the afternoons, or you see it as the local private pub: home for NFL games, a couple of beers, and goodhumored smack talk with friends. For some Members, the Club is their regular spot to grab a bite with a friend or have a nice dinner with their partner while watching a spectacular sunset.
Some Members just do that: they come to the Club to sit in the rockers with a glass of wine and watch the skies flood with color. In the late summer, the sun gets so intense in those last moments that the tops of the trees along the fairways look like they’re on fire. If they wait for a bit, those Members might see a moonrise too.
For our community, SGCC is the backdrop for countless photos during homecoming and prom seasons. It’s where
we celebrate birthdays, babies, promotions, retirements, graduations, marriages, anniversaries, and lives well loved, lived, and cherished. It’s where we make friends and spend time with our families.
When my family first joined SGCC in 2019, I remember being advised to “use the Club.” The phrase rubbed me the wrong way; it seemed impersonal. I couldn’t connect with the concept of “using” anything that I really enjoy. I don’t use my house and I don’t use my car. I don’t use my dogs or my family or friends… thinking of SGCC that way made me feel like it was a utility. So, while I “enjoyed” a few things, I never really “used” the Club beyond dinner, brunch, and the pool.
Then the pandemic hit. We wanted to do all we could to support the Club, so we ordered lots of carry out and attended events as the world began to open back up. We joined an early morning birding event, signed up for Goat Yoga, and attended the Fourth of July and Labor Day picnics. Then we tried out a bourbon and cigars evening as well as a beer dinner. We made dinner reservations during Music on the Patio and dressed up for the Holiday Open House.
Despite gradually becoming a more active Club Member, it wasn’t until about 18 months ago that I really changed my perspective on what my Membership means to me. Life is what we make of it, and I decided I would start to come here more, hit the treadmill (even though I have one at home), and avail myself of the sauna and showers after a massage. The more I used the Club, the more I wanted to use it. I scheduled more massages. We came to more events. I began to feel like a regular.
Even so, I fell into a rut. I did my thing: work out in the gym, then hit the pool to hang out, read, take a dip, and maybe nap, before heading to the patio for dinner. But I knew it was time for more. So last spring, a new Club friend and I signed up for the Operation 36 Golf Fore Women 101 with Robert Simpson, PGA. Our first day was right out of Brontë: a brooding, windy “spring.” One of my favorite memories of those early days is when Robert, bracing his face against the wind, repeated a question one of us asked, “‘When is it too cold to play golf?’ Ten degrees ago,” he said, his Texas teeth chattering.
We began our first lesson at the putting green because the driving range would have been absurd, plus huddling together on the green like emperor penguins was essential to our survival. I made some very nice friends, and I began to feel like someone who belonged here. By the time the last lesson of the session came around, the weather was considerably warmer and I was not an awful golfer…a pretty fantastic feat for someone who hadn’t golfed before. Soon after the last lesson, the weather started to become unbearable; we’d gone from Brontë to Dune. Despite my competitive drive and desire to stay on the practice areas, the pool beckoned.
For a few interspersed days last summer, my husband and I hung out at the pool for a late swim, burger, and margarita. The big surprise was the new Pavilion, essentially a poolside sports bar and seating area. The ability to flow from the pool to the little yard for a blistering match of corn hole, then to sidle up to the bar for something to vanquish our thirst, left me feeling very comfortable and almost homey. It reminded me a lot of spaces I would see while at resorts or on cruises over the years: people completely relaxed under an umbrella, not a care in the world.
The ultimate test of my unplanned Country Club as Resort campaign arrived during the Journey cover band weekend. We got a big table on the patio in Mariela’s section. Once the band kicked off, we were back and forth to the lawn. That night was amazingly fun. My brain felt like I was in high school, and my body tried to keep up. I almost lost my voice from singing. The next morning, we were back for brunch, at it again and, as fate
would have it, Mariela was our waiter again on the complete opposite side of the patio (hide from us all you want, Mariela, we will end up in your section...). While eating, we decided we were going to make a day of it. We went down to the pool to camp out until we fought over our last sweet potato fry and closing time rolled around.
Just as summer was wrapping up, the GFW 101 fall session was starting. Did I sign up for another 101 with Robert? Yes! It was a smart move. We had better weather and could start on the driving range. Am I getting better? I think so! Ask Robert, he’ll tell you. Another delightful benefit to golf lessons in the warmer weather is that we often had lunch on the patio after our lessons. Some of us enjoyed a glass of wine after our stressful attempts at better golfing, which only enhanced our beautiful day.
The warmth of summer and early fall is a distant memory. The cold has moved in, and even though the days are technically getting longer again, the lack of sunlight makes finding the motivation to be out and about difficult. While slowing and hunkering down are natural instincts during this time of year, don’t get too comfortable because there’s a chance something is going on at the Club. One weekend in December, we walked in on a pop-up wine tasting in the Grill Room off to the side near the bar and it was the perfect vibe just before dinner; it felt like home. After all, the Club is not just a place to be, it is somewhere we belong.
So, what does it mean to belong to SGCC? I challenge you to find out for yourself. I definitely recommend a “resort” weekend this summer where you spend a full day (or more!) enjoying the Fitness Center, lounging by the pool, then soaking up the good vibes on the patio, but don’t wait that long to make the most out of your membership. The Staff and Committees have planned a wide variety of activities to keep us entertained during the colder months. The sports programming hasn’t slowed down either – racquets clinics are off and running, the gym and fitness studio are full of new faces chasing after their resolutions, and the golf simulator room is the perfect spot for both practice and fun with friends.
What are you doing when you’re at the Club? The Communications Committee wants to know! Send us pictures and videos, and tag @sgcc_springfieldcountryclub on your Instagram posts so we can share them with our community. Maybe the way you use the Club will inspire another Member! Whatever your Membership means to you, I hope you make your 2025 at SGCC memorable and indulgent.
Get to Know Your Staff: Meet Natalia Kuper, Accounts Payable
BY EMILY KAUFFMAN | DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS
If you’ve been a Member at SGCC for a while, you’re probably familiar with Natalia Kuper’s smiling face. Her helpful nature and infectious laugh are staple elements of our community for both Members and Staff. Natalia will be celebrating 20th anniversary as an employee at Springfield Golf and Country Club this February, and she couldn’t be happier.
“I love working here,” says Natalia. “I know it’s going to be 20 years, but every day I wake up super, super excited. I still enjoy it. I like what I do.”
Natalia moved to the United States from Peru in August of 2000 when she was 23 years old and expecting her first child. She began working at the Club in 2005 as a Server in the Food & Beverage department. She was eventually promoted to Banquet Captain before transitioning to her current role in Accounts Payable in 2018.
“After becoming Banquet Captain, I started having medical issues and began looking for another job that didn’t require as much physical activity,” recalls Natalia. “Thankfully, the Managers that were here back then helped me figure out how I could still work at the Club without doing something that would hurt me every day. It was very nice, I felt like they cared about me because they were trying to make it work, and it was perfect because I didn’t have to go anywhere else!”
“I don’t have family here in Virginia, but I feel like the whole Club has tried really hard to make me feel comfortable and to help me. I have always been thankful, because they didn’t have to do any of the stuff that they did,” she adds.
Natalia studied Business Administration at Inca Garcilaso De la Vega University in Lima, Peru, and even though accounting was her least favorite subject, when the Accounts Payable position at SGCC became available, she was excited for the challenge.
“When I was [working Banquets], I really liked preparing the
events, organizing them, and making sure everyone was having a good time and enjoying themselves. It was a good feeling,” says Natalia. “I like my current role, but I miss interacting with Members and constantly moving around.”
“What I do now is totally different, but I still enjoy it,” she says. “I never thought that I would enjoy being in an office because I’m kind of hyper, but it is nice. Plus, I love paying bills! I’m very organized: I come to work, I’ve got a pile of things, so I’m working, I’m paying bills, I’m cleaning my desk, and making sure that everything is okay at the Club so nobody else has to stress.
And there’s always something new, so I keep learning.”
When asked what makes her job so enjoyable, Natalia’s answer is an easy one: her coworkers, the work she does, and the Members. “I know it might be hard to believe, but I really am very excited to come to work each day,” she says. “I’ve got my routine and I love my schedule that’s another thing that’s been working for me for years. When my kids were in school, I was able to be home in the afternoons to take care of them because I worked from 6:00 AM until 2:00 PM. Management has always been very flexible with me about my schedule which I really appreciate.”
Natalia’s impact on the Club extends far beyond her efficient bill paying. She has a profound effect on employee morale, always helping plan celebrations like birthday parties and baby showers as well as constantly helping translate for Spanishspeaking Staff members.
“One of the most gratifying parts of my day is being able to help employees who speak Spanish. They’re able to express themselves to me the way they want, and I can translate for them. I also get to teach them how to use some of the tools we have for employees, like the onboarding system or explaining our health insurance. I love being able to help like that, it makes me feel really good.”
When she’s not at work, you’ll likely find Natalia dancing, painting, cooking, and spending time with her family. “I’m the youngest of six I have three brothers and two sisters and of course I always had all the attention growing up, and we were always playing around and having a good time,” Natalia says.
“My father was a chef and owned a restaurant. My mother worked in accounting and did all the numbers for the restaurant and took care of us kids. I grew up going to the market with my father and learning how to cook. That’s why I enjoy cooking not just because I like to eat, but because it reminds me of when I used to do those things with my father. Chefs are always busy, so that’s the only time I actually got to spend with him.”
Natalia’s love of food pairs well with another passion of hers: traveling. Traveling abroad is a cornerstone of Natalia’s relationship with her husband, Dan. The couple regularly plan trips and have visited dozens of places since they got married in 2014.
“Traveling is a lot of work. It’s hard to be at the airport for hours and you really don’t know where you’re going,” she says. “Dan and I have definitely been places where we were like oh my gosh they’re going to kill us, but we really just try to enjoy
whatever it is. We went to a place called Trash City in Egypt. It’s not for everybody, but we wanted to learn and enjoy the experience and see what was around and just do something cool and different.”
“It’s hard to pick a favorite place I’ve been everywhere I go is unique and amazing. I love the different cultures and getting to know people all over the world and eating all the different foods. The weirdest food I’ve had is probably bull testicles or tripe, I used to like eating fish eyes…you know if it’s weird, I’ll try it. I’m not afraid!”
If forced to pick, though, her favorite place she’s visited is Italy: “It has everything history, architecture, food, attractive people; it’s beautiful everywhere you go!”
Although they are very different people, Natalia considers Dan to be her perfect match: “He’s just amazing, I think I found my balance with him. He can handle all my craziness and is so easygoing. You just want someone who doesn’t give you a hard time, but helps you grow up and have fun.”
Natalia and Dan have always considered themselves lucky when it comes to their blended family. “They’re good kids,” Natalia says of her two sons, Sebastian and Robert, and Dan’s two daughters, Sophia and Fiona. All four of them are young adults now and beginning exciting new chapters in their lives. Sophia (23) is attending college in San Diego and pursuing a degree in psychology. Fiona (20) currently works at the Fitness Center while attending school locally and pursuing a career in veterinary science. Both Sebastian (24) and Robert (21) are in the military. Robert is based out of Washington state, but spends most of his time at sea. Sebastian lives in Chesapeake and recently welcomed his first child in early December, a daughter named Lola Rose.
“It’s just awesome. Every time I see her, I melt. I’m so happy,” says Natalia about becoming a grandmother. “I try to video call every day. She’s a very good baby, and it’s wonderful to see my son becoming a great father and working alongside a good woman to be responsible. They are so happy. At the end of the day, you just want your kids to be happy. I’m so proud of all my kids.”
Notes from the Cutting Board
BY TRAVIS SIMMONS | EXECUTIVE CHEF
It’s wintertime and the Farmer’s Almanac has called for a warmer than average winter. I’m not so sure about that judging by the past few weeks, but we will see.
Whether because of warmer temperatures or maxing out on comfort foods over the holidays, as the season rolls on, you may want to give the pasta, pizza, and chili a break. We still have a bounty of fresh vegetable available during the winter months that are just as hearty as pasta and stews, but a bit lighter, which works well if we do have those warmer temps.
We are all familiar with the butternut, acorn, and spaghetti squash dishes of the season, but I like to think a bit outside of the box. There’s a roasted winter vegetable entrée I’ve been mulling over for a while now: roasted saffron cauliflower steak with celery root purée, finished with balsamic roasted vegetables.
To start, we need to get all our ingredients together or, as we say in the kitchen, mise en place: olive oil, butter, red pepper, one celery root, a whole head of cauliflower, portabella mushrooms, brussels sprouts, a healthy pinch of saffron, salt, pepper, Montreal steak seasoning, and some balsamic vinaigrette.
First, we’ll start the saffron broth on the stove. Add 1 to 2 quarts of water and the saffron threads to a pot and bring to a boil.
While we wait, we can clean and cut all our vegetables. Make sure to scrape the dark fins from the mushrooms. Cut off the top and bottom of the cauliflower, leaving about 2 inches of the center for the steak. Dice 1/3 a pound of butter. Clean and dice the celery root; some try to use a peeler for this, but I recommend just using a sharp kitchen knife. Lastly, chop the red pepper.
Place the whole cauliflower into a bowl. By now, the saffron broth should be at a boil; pour it over the cauliflower and cover with plastic wrap.
Now it’s time to start the celery root purée. Heat 1 to 2 quarts of chicken broth and the celery root in a pot. Bring it to a rolling boil, then lower to a simmer and continue to cook until the celery root is soft.
While the celery root is working on the stove, we need to get the roasted vegetables ready to go in the oven. Take all the vegetables and toss them with balsamic, a touch of olive oil, salt and pepper to taste, and Montreal steak seasoning. Place the seasoned vegetables on a sheet pan and roast in a preheated oven at 350˚F for about 15 minutes.
We can roast the saffron cauliflower steak at the same time as the vegetables. Put it on its own sheet pan, and roast at 350˚F for about 20 minutes. We want the cauliflower to be soft, but not falling apart. Don’t be afraid of the crispy brunt sides— we’re just building flavor!
Once our vegetables and cauliflower are in the oven, check on the celery root. It should be ready for the next step. Remove the pot from heat and place the celery root in a high-speed blender along with the diced butter. We can add some of the broth to help blend to a smooth consistency, but only add a little at a time as we won’t need all of it.
When the roasted vegetables and cauliflower come out of the oven, we’ll need to cut the cauliflower into quarters and slice our mushrooms. Finally, it’s time to plate up and serve! I suggest adding a little wilted arugula, but you could use any greens you like.
Here’s to a happy and healthy new year!
Turf Talk
BY SHAWN GILL | GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENT
It’s hard to believe that 2024 has come to an end. The busier things are, the quicker time passes by, so that surely explains why 2024 passed like lightning.
The year began with frigid temperatures and a snowy blanket in January, and we quickly ran out of ice melt. It looked like we might be in for a brutal winter, so I stockpiled a couple of pallets of rock salt. Well, that did the trick, and we didn’t see another ground-covering snowfall the rest of the winter. It never fails, if you go above and beyond in your preparations, it usually ends up that you don’t need them.
That reminds me of a funny story….In late fall of 2022, we began winter preparations, and discovered the blade on our snow plow was completely worn away. A few phone calls to the manufacturer, $1,400, and a bunch of time in the equipment
repair shop later, we had our plow ready for the next big storm. I said to Oscar, “Now that we’ve spent all this time and money on fixing up the plow, just watch, it won’t snow at all.” I followed that up with, “I’d be fine with that! If all I have to do is spend a couple grand preparing for winter to ensure we don’t have one, I consider that a great investment.” Sure enough, the only snow we had that winter didn’t even cover the rough and the plow didn’t get used once. In fact, the new blade still hasn’t scraped the ground two years later. But I digress.
Don’t worry, I’m not going to revisit all of 2024’s weather as I’d like to forget it just as much as you, and I’m already looking forward to the coming golf season. I would like to highlight the hidden talents of your Greens Crew, what they achieved this past year, and how we plan to use their skills and knowledge to improve the facility.
Let’s start with tree removal. It’s a sensitive subject for some, but necessary for both safety and agronomic reasons. Most of you probably don’t realize that statistically, tree work is the second most deadly profession, just a bit behind crabbing in the Bering Sea. Safely taking down and cutting up large trees requires knowledge of physics and rope knots, paying acute attention to wind and the amount of foliage on the trees, and a very sharp chainsaw. This is why the work can be so expensive to have performed by outside contractors. While we still “farm out” the work where climbing or large equipment is required, your Greens team is able to do most of the work themselves.
We’ve invested in the proper equipment (ropes, chains, chain saws, etc.), making it possible for our crew to remove dead and dying trees and supply Members with a virtually unlimited amount of split firewood, all while saving thousands of dollars each year. The added benefit to performing the work in-house is that it's done very carefully to minimize any damage to the turf, which could impact playing conditions. Last winter, we removed over 20 large trees on the property, all of which had declined to the point that they presented a safety hazard. I think you’d be hard-pressed to identify where the work was done. From start to finish, dropping the trees to sodding the stump holes, the crew met its objective to leave the areas looking as if there was never a tree present.
We also have some employees with construction experience. While not architects, they can make pretty accurate sketches of the projects they have been tasked to complete. I believe I have only begun to discover the depths of their skills. I describe what the finished project should look like, and they take care of developing the design, listing required supplies, and developing a timeline for finishing. A short while later and, voila, there is a new professional-looking enhancement to the Club.
We started with a few small projects, the bench area by #6 and #15 tees and the recently completed water cooler cabinet pad at the driving range tee. Now we have begun the replacement of the steps at #15 tee. The old materials have been removed and supplies for the new steps are on the way. This project is a little more complex than the others, but in the end, we will have a safe, attractive staircase that will last for many years
to come. Not only are projects such as these much more cost efficient than hiring an outside contractor, but they provide an opportunity for your crew to show off their abilities and leave a lasting impression at SGCC.
Drainage work is something else that has been hired out in the past. It requires knowledge of hydraulics in order to function properly while not creating a new problem area. This is another place where we can achieve the objectives using our own smart people who understand drainage function and design. Proper drainage must take into account airflow as well as water flow and anticipated volumes. I showcased some of these abilities last month in describing the projects done as a result of stormwater management inspections. I believe I highlighted this project previously, but some of the newer Members would not know that every winter, large sheets of ice would form at the base
of the steps leading to the parking lot when temperatures dipped low. This was a huge safety hazard! I brought some key team members to the spot. We looked at where the water was originating and where it could be routed. There were electrical lines in the area and the large concrete slab of the staircase landing impeded the correct position for drain line installation. No worries! Some wire tracking (we have that equipment), trencher work, and a lot of difficult hand-digging under the concrete, and again, problem solved. There has not been a touch of ice there since. We are going to take these skills onto the course and work on adding additional drain lines where the course stays wet after substantial rain and where concentrated flow causes erosion or poor playing conditions.
Another project that requires specific knowledge and attention to detail is one we started over the summer. I am sure you have all noticed the large square hole to the left of the cart path near #12 tee. This is part of an equipment wash water filtration system we are putting in place. We never like to have projects ongoing for an extended period of time, but in this case, we were performing some tests as to the required sump volume and final drain lengths needed by observing drainage characteristics during rain and equipment washing cycles.
The location of the Maintenance Facility at a high point on the course is convenient in many ways, but not from the perspective of evacuating equipment wash water in an environmentally friendly way. To avoid putting nutrients into the surface water that feeds the bay, the wastewater must be filtered. The most thorough way to do this is by slow percolation through soil. This is the system being built just outside of the maintenance yard fencing. With a large basin and long drain field lines, it will act much like a septic system, but filter nutrient contaminated water instead. The new system should make it possible for us to properly wash multiple pieces of equipment simultaneously in a way that does not damage the environment or require the use of a pressure washer, which tends to degrade bearings and other lubricated equipment parts prematurely.
I could go on and on, but I don’t want to forget our employee spotlight this month. You will most often see Luis Gomez on a John Deere tractor pulling the rough mowing units along behind him. His talent at operating a tractor gets lost in how easy he makes it look. Trust me, it is much harder than it appears from watching him. The fact that you rarely see anyone else doing it is evidence of how good he is and how difficult it is to train the skill he possesses.
Luis is anything but one dimensional in his golf course maintenance ability. He can, and does, perform nearly every task associated with our department on a regular basis and
has been doing so here at SGCC for over 19 years. We count on him to spot potential problems, train new employees, and provide recommendations when selecting which equipment to purchase. He is an exemplary employee in all facets, and we are all lucky to have him.
Luis and his wife have raised two daughters, living here in Northern Virginia since coming to the U.S. in 1989. When not working, you will likely find Luis watching fútbol with his dog, especially if his team, Barcelona, is playing against Real Madrid, or grilling the fresh fish he catches after a day boating on the Chesapeake Bay. Over the years, the Greens department team have developed close friendships outside of work. Luis and Jose Barahona used to spend quite a bit of time fixing cars together as a hobby and for a little extra cash. Like the rest of the great group we have, you will likely see a smile on Luis’ face when you encounter him out on the course, so give a wave and let him know that you appreciate the effort he puts into making “something special” happen here at Springfield!
Bridge Banter
BY DON FREDERICK
As we enter the New Year, are you looking for a new way to enjoy our beautiful Club? Do you play bridge? If yes, come join the SGCC Friday Evening Bridge Group at one of our upcoming sessions.
Here are the results of our recent sessions:
DECEMBER 6
First: Robin Alapas and Kit Weyers
Second: Mary and Ed Kringer
Third: Cindy and Don Frederick
Fourth: Ellen and Charles Rolen
DECEMBER 20
First: Robin Alapas and Kit Weyers
Second: Cindy and Don Frederick
Third: Lydia Peck and John Korfonta
Fourth: Mary and Bob Harter
We play relaxed, party bridge on the first and third
Coach’s Corner: Dance in the Rain
BY BRANDEN BEETS | DIRECTOR OF RACQUET SPORTS
Now that we’ve explored the importance of failure (be sure to check out last month’s “Coach’s Corner” if you missed it), it’s time to face our fears head-on.
“Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass, but learning to dance in the rain.” – Vivian Greene
This quote captures the essence of my approach to player development. It’s not just about mastering the basics—your strokes, timing, spacing, and strategies are all important, but they are just the beginning. Once you’ve built that foundation, it’s time to play.
Here’s what makes racquet sports so exhilarating: no two shots are ever the same. The pace, the depth, the spin—it’s all different every time. And that’s where the magic happens. The challenge lies in being able to adapt to every situation on the court, so that’s exactly how we train.
too early is real, and resisting that urge is part of the journey. I like to get involved in practice as much as possible because as the coach, I can throw in that random element—putting the ball in places players don’t expect and keeping them on their toes. It’s all about building muscle memory. Staying energized with your feet, focused with your mind, and ready with your hands becomes second nature with lots of repetition.
“Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass, but learning to dance in the rain.”
— VIVIAN GREENE
In our daily practice, we put players—junior and adult alike— into offensive, defensive, and neutral situations. We adjust starting positions to simulate pressure, and we keep score to simulate the high stakes of real competition. There’s no room for chest-bumping after a great point or hanging your head after a mistake. The next point is coming, and that’s where your focus has to be.
As the rally goes on, the pressure builds, and the urgency to finish the point grows. The temptation to go for the winning shot
Our players are learning to embrace the storm. By facing pressure in practice, they learn to thrive in it. They come to see it not as something to fear, but as a challenge to run toward.
And when they don’t hit the perfect shot? They clean up the mess and keep going. Scrambling to win a point when your opponent is in control is one of the most rewarding moments in the game. It not only shifts the momentum but can rattle your opponent’s confidence too.
So, why not join us? Whether in a group lesson or class, let’s dance in the rain together. The storm might be unpredictable, but we know how to embrace it. See you on the courts!
Learn More About Our January Events...
NEW YEAR’S DAY HOURS
Bar Lounge, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM Light Fare Only, Regular
Menu Not Available
Golf Course Open
Racquets & Fitness, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Child Minding Closed
1 PLAY BEGINS FOR MEN’S & WOMEN’S WINTER SINGLES TENNIS CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP
Once the Brackets are Set, Players will be Given Their First Round Matchups. Players will have Up to Two Weeks to Work to Play the Match. The Total Number of Rounds is TBD. This is a Single-Elimination Tournament. Registration is Free. 2 GOLF & TENNIS WINTER DAY CAMP
For Ages 6-15. 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM. Registration Required. $100. Includes Lunch. 3
GOLF & TENNIS WINTER DAY CAMP
For Ages 6-15. 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM. Registration Required. $100. Includes Lunch.
FAMILY TRIVIA NIGHT & SPAGHETTI DINNER
6:00 - 8:00 PM
Spaghetti Dinner, 3 Exciting Rounds of Family-Friendly
Trivia, Toys and Prizes. Registration Required, $15++ Children 4 & Under Complimentary. 11 SELF DEFENSE CLASS 12:00 - 1:00 PM
In Partnership with K2 Martial Arts Academy. Open to Ages 12 and up. Registration Required. $20
All Members with Golf Privileges are Invited and Encouraged to Sign Up to Participate in an Evening of Discussion Designed to Gain Further Insight on the Potential Driving Range Renovation. Registration Required. 19 REIKI-INFUSED SOUND BATH 3:00 - 5:00 PM
Experience the Transformative and Healing Power of Sound and Reiki. Includes Guided Meditation, Sound Bath, Group Reiki, and Brief Individual Reiki. Registration Required, $65.
24
ADULT TRIVIA NIGHT 7:30 PM
Team Name and Registration Required, Must Have 6 People per Team. There is No Charge for this Event.
25 MEN’S & WOMEN’S INDOOR PICKLEBALL CLUB CHAMPIONSHIPS 1:00 - 5:00 PM
Two Divisions within Each Category: Championship and Social. Registration Required. $20
26 BRUNCH BINGO 11:00 AM
Includes Bingo and Brunch Buffet. Registration Required. $32++ Adults, $25++ Children Ages 5-11
February 2025
CLUBHOUSE CLOSED MONDAYS
HALF PRICE BURGER WEDNESDAYS
HAPPY HOUR THURSDAYS, 5:30-7:30 PM
FRIDAY BUFFET, 5:00-9:00 PM
BREAKFAST, SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS 8:00-10:00 AM SUNDAY BRUNCH, 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Learn More About Our February Events...
BOUNCE HOUSE DAY 3:00 - 6:00 PM
We’re Turning the Indoor Courts into a Bounce House Wonderland! Come Bounce the Afternoon Away and Learn About our Summer Camps and Programs. Registration is Required. This Event is Complimentary.
11 WINE TASTING CLASS 6:00 - 7:00 PM
“The Origins of Romance: Tracing the Roots of Romantic Wine, Gods & Goddesses of Wine, the Origin of Valentine’s Day, & More!” Learn About and Taste 5 Wines: Sparkling Cremant de Bourgogne, No Love Lost Chardonnay, No Love Los Cabernet Sauvignon, Burgundy Mercurey Chardonnay, and Montagny Pinot Noir. Include Light Fare. Registration Required. Space is Limited, Members Only. $40++
More Information Coming Soon!
Golf Pro’s Pointers
BY ALESSANDRA MAURTUA, PGA | DIRECTOR OF GOLF
As we step into the new year, many of us set resolutions—or as I like to call them, goals. One of my personal goals this year is to play more golf…that shouldn’t be too hard, considering I only managed four rounds last year! Goals are more than just aspirations—they’re a way to measure progress and keep ourselves on track.
When setting goals, it’s important to think about how you’re going to achieve them. For golfers, the start of a new year is a great time to reflect on what you’d like to improve in your game. If you’re unsure where to begin, tracking your stats is a great starting point. Record key metrics like:
• Fairways hit
• Greens in regulation
• Up-and-down success rates
• Number of putts per round
This data gives you a clear picture of where your strengths lie and what areas need work.
When it comes to practice, it’s not about the amount of time you spend, but the intention behind it. Set realistic and achievable goals, and focus on your own progress rather than comparing yourself to others. Break your game into specific areas—driving, approach shots, short game, and putting—and create a plan to improve each one. Remember, small, consistent steps lead to big changes over time.
If one of your goals is simply to play a little faster, that doesn’t mean you need to rush through your round. There are plenty of ways to improve your pace while still enjoying the game:
• Be ready to hit when it’s your turn.
• Walk to your ball while your playing partner is hitting (as long as it’s safe to do so).
• Read the green while others are putting so you’re ready to go when it’s your turn.
• When using carts, head straight to your ball and begin your pre-shot routine, keeping out of the way of anyone hitting behind you.
• Park your cart smartly—either to the side of the green or behind it—so you don’t have to backtrack and hold up the group behind you.
• Record your score on the next tee box, not on or near the green. This keeps play moving and reduces wait times.
By setting goals, practicing with intention, and being mindful of pace of play, you’ll not only enjoy the game more but also see steady improvement. Let’s make this a year of growth and great golf!
Membership Corner
BY SHELLY GOOREVICH MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR
An important way our Membership continues to grow is when our current Members speak about their SGCC experiences with friends, family, neighbors, and co-workers, and ask them to consider joining the Club. Warmer weather will be upon us before we know it, so I wanted to take this opportunity to let you know that our current Membership Initiation Fees are scheduled to increase on April 1, 2025. With that being said, there is no better time than the present to reach out and encourage your friends and family to contact me for additional membership information and to schedule a Club tour.
Please join me in extending a warm welcome to some of our newest Member families…
The Joe and Janet Canary have lived in Fairfax County for the last 31 years. During this time, they raised two wonderful daughters who are both proud graduates of Virginia Tech. Joe and Janet also raised three smooth collies a herding dog and great family pet. They are lawyers by profession who started in the private sector and then worked for the federal government. As recent retirees, the Canarys are looking to add more physical fitness, golf, travel, and social activities to their lifestyle.
Nick and Alicia Meads have been married for 14 years and have resided in Northern Virginia for more than 20. After graduating, Nick managed political campaigns, including former Congressman Tom Davis’s last re-election in 2006. Since then, he has worked in public affairs, corporate advocacy, and digital advertising sales. Alicia handles policy and sustainability issues for a major chemical company and has spent her career advocating for manufacturing interests in the federal government. Their son, Daniel, is in the second grade at Westminster School in Annandale. They live in Falls Church and attend The Falls Church Anglican. This year, Nick fell in love with the game of golf, as did Daniel, which, among other amazing amenities and people, brings them to Springfield Golf and Country Club. They look forward to being a part of this wonderful community.
The Canary Family
Nick, Alicia, & Daniel Meads
Golf Life with the Sprague Brothers
BY EMILY KAUFFMAN | DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATION
Emily Sprague, née Brant, is no stranger to the world of golf. Her parents, Dave and Merri Jo Brant, joined SGCC in 1998 because her father was a big golfer and her older brother had developed a talent for the sport. Andrew Brant, Emily’s older brother, won the Junior Club Championship at SGCC three years in a row, was competitive in AJGA junior golf, and played one year of collegiate golf at James Madison University. Despite her father’s best efforts, Emily was never interested in playing herself, choosing instead to spend her time on the soccer field. These days, though, Emily spends a lot of time on golf courses
as her sons, Charlie and Tucker, are both competitive junior golfers.
Charlie, who will celebrate his tenth birthday in February, began golfing competitively at age 5, but his interest in the sport began much earlier when he was gifted a plastic set of clubs at 18 months old. Young children are highly observant, and after watching his father, Ben, and grandfather play so many times, Charlie was able to imitate them and swing almost perfectly on his first try.
Charlie’s fifth birthday came right at the start of COVID, and golf was one of the only sports that kept going when the world shut down. After competing in the Northern Virginia 2020 spring local tour for US Kids, Charlie was invited to participate in the US Kids World Championship in Pinehurst, North Carolina. The tournament was the family’s first true taste of the intense world of competitive junior golf. They weren’t deterred though, and Charlie has participated in the World Championships every year since, as well as many other US Kids local, state, and regional tournaments.
Tucker, who turns 8 in January, picked up golf at 3 ½ years old. At first, he didn’t have as much interest in the sport as his older brother, but by the time he turned 4, he went from watching the iPad while he tagged along on the course to begging to play himself. Tucker also started competing in US Kids Golf tournaments at age 5; after watching his brother play for two years, he couldn’t wait to start competing himself! Like Charlie, Tucker found success early on, and hasn’t looked back since.
The boys’ little sister, Eleanor, recently turned 4. While she hasn’t yet expressed much of an interest in learning the sport, she does love riding around in the golf cart and eating all the snacks while cheering on her big brothers.
Golf truly is a family affair for the Spragues. Charlie and Tucker support one another, and of course they love playing against one another as well as their dad and grandfather. “Golf is a unique bonding experience for all the men in our family,” says Emily. “I like to think the fact that they get to spend so much time together keeps them going! The boys have spent countless hours on the SGCC range, putting green, short game area, and the course all with their dad and/or G-Pa by their side giving them lots of solicited and unsolicited advice. There have been many tears, cheers, high fives, and LOTS of Gatorades, trail mix, chips, and Oreos from their favorite cart guy, TAB. They love being out on the course together and whether they’re encouraging, challenging, or bickering with each other, I know they are forming memories that will last a lifetime.”
Since the boys started playing competitively at such a young age, there have been a lot of big emotions to navigate over the years. According to Emily, both Charlie and Tucker developed very high expectations of themselves due to their early successes, and it can be hard to manage the ups and downs that come with competing. “As their mom, I am their cheerleader and biggest fan like in every other sport, but I’m also their emotional support in ways that other sports don’t require,” says Emily. “Their tournament rounds can be extremely stressful to watch, simply because they want to do so well and can be so hard on themselves! One of my favorite memories and a day I’ll never forget is when Charlie had the round of his life at the US Kids World Championships when he was 7. It was the third
round of the tournament, and he was in 18th place going into the final day, so he didn’t think he had any shot at getting on the podium. Probably for that reason, he was unusually relaxed and did not put any pressure on himself. He ended up shooting a 32 (-4, with 5 birdies in 9 holes)—the lowest round for his age group of the entire tournament! The moment he made his final birdie putt on the last hole, he ran over to me in the golf cart and gave me the biggest hug. I broke down in tears (and I do NOT cry easily) not because he did so well that day, but just because of how emotional the game can be and seeing him so happy and so proud of himself made me so happy for him. We found out later that the round shot him up to 3rd place and when he found out, he cried the only happy tears I’ve ever seen him cry. It’s always exciting when our kids succeed at anything they’re doing, but because golf is so tough, so mentally challenging, and such an individual sport, there is certainly something special about the victories in golf versus other sports.”
The Sprague family’s relationship with golf has recently taken a fun new twist with the launch of their line of junior golf apparel, Turtlebacks. The idea for the clothing line came out of a scenario with which many parents are likely familiar battles over dress pants. “As many boys do, Charlie has always hated wearing pants of any kind. He has always been very picky about how things fit and feel, and as he got older and had to wear golf or dress pants, I struggled to find high quality, well-fitting, stylish pants that he could comfortably play golf in,” says Emily.
Emily noticed that while the athleisure/performance fabric
trend was taking off in the adult world and her husband was bringing home pair after pair of stretchy, comfortable golf pants that he could wear anywhere, there wasn’t anything similar for kids. With Ben’s encouragement, she decided to change that, and Turtlebacks was born.
Charlie and Tucker are more than just the inspiration behind Turtlebacks, they are also the face of the brand, the fit models, and product testers. They have a lot of input in the product design and their opinions are incredibly valuable to Emily and Ben. “They’re our toughest customers,” says Emily, “so if we can make them happy, we figure the product is a good one!” She adds that it is another special memory to be learning how to run a business together as a family as well as being able to instill an entrepreneurial spirit in her children at an early age.
“The boys have been involved in every aspect of our business. From serving as our inspiration for our products to our motivation and purpose to keep going, they really are the heart and soul of Turtlebacks,” says Emily. “The name Turtlebacks was inspired by the challenging ‘turtleback’ greens famous in Pinehurst, North Carolina, which have a distinct domed shape resembling the shell of a turtle. Not only does Pinehurst hold a special place in our family’s heart because of all the golf memories there, but the innate toughness of a turtle shell and resilience of the turtle perfectly represent the strength and determination we hope to instill in our sons and the boys who wear our clothes.”
5 Bodyweight Exercises for Newbies to Fitness Fanatics
BY REGGIE EDWARDS | DIRECTOR OF FITNESS
1. Chin/pull-ups are a great exercise for strengthening your back and biceps. These can be modified by keeping your feet on the floor and pulling up to a bar or your desk or a table (this would be an inverted pull up). If you’re working out in the Fitness Center, we have an assisted pull up machine.
2. Push-ups are a great for strengthening your chest, shoulders, and triceps. These can be modified by doing them on your knees or with your legs on a stability ball. Another option for newbies would be doing push-ups on a wall or stairs.
3. Bodyweight squats will strengthen your core and lower body. Make sure to use good form by not allowing your knees to go out over your toes and remember to push up through your heels. A fun modification is doing squats on a ball against a wall (a wall squat).
4. Planks are a great exercise for strengthening your abdominals and obliques. You can do front planks and side planks; both exercises can be modified by working from your knees instead of your feet.
5. Bridges work the lower back and glutes which are part of your core. Floor bridges are most challenging with your feet together but can be modified by spreading your feet hip width apart or doing them on a stability ball.
With all these exercises, I recommend starting with two sets of between 10 and 15 repetitions. These bodyweight exercises are great for those just starting their fitness journey or those who want some extra spice in their fitness routine.
Best of luck on your 2025 New Year fitness journey, may the gains be ever in your favor!
Retirees’ Corner
BY RUSTY ROESCH
Springfield’s Retirees have not slowed down this winter, and are already gearing up for the 2025 season! Multiple groups are out on the course each week, weather permitting, sharpening their skills in preparation for the upcoming golf season. We are already getting reports that some will migrate to Florida for the colder months and play lots of golf in the warm weather prior to our next season.
By way of information, Springfield Country Club has been a member of the Northern Virginia Retired Men’s Golf Association (NVRMGA) since the beginning. The first organizing meeting was held November 8, 1972, at International Country Club followed by the approval of the league rules in the spring of 1973. The first league-wide season was held in 1973. Since then, we have a great record—the best in the league by far—winning the championship thirteen times over the years.
Looking ahead, our team’s 2025 competitive season kicks off in mid-March with an annual Registration Meeting in the ballroom. A couple of weeks later, our Opening Bash will pit the Red Team (led by Captain Don Bisenius and Co-Captain Bruce Sheaffer) against the Blue Team (led by Captain Walter Burkhardt and Co-Captain Brad Westermann). This highly anticipated event is always a great opportunity to warm up prior to our opening league match and socialize with other team members.
Our 2024 run at the championship may be over, but as a reminder it’s never too late or too early to join the Retirees (just be 50+ and available to play on Thursdays). Our Retiree Team needs new players every year to support competitive home and away matches. For more information on joining, please contact Bruce Nordstrom at bnorthstream@yahoo.com or call 202.494.6558, and put attending our annual registration and organizational meeting at the Club in March on your to do list.
Reiki-Infused Sound Bath: A Transformative Experience at SGCC
BY KATIE KISSAL | COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE CHAIR
SGCC members and guests closed out 2024 with a unique healing event on Saturday, December 21.
The Reiki-infused South Bath was a multifaceted approach to unblocking energy and clearing pathways, helping foster energy alignment.
The session was co-led by SGCC member Molly Field, who has provided sound bath experiences for Members in the past: “This was the first time we have infused a session with Reiki, specifically Usui Reiki. Our goal was to create a multi-vibrational soundscape while participants experienced the hands-over practice of Reiki attunement which channels energy from the sun for healing. This provides a space within the physical, emotional, and energetic bodies.” Field used crystal bowls, chimes, gongs, and percussive texture while Casey Edwards performed group and individual Reiki.
The session was a great experience for participants, so much so another session has already been added to the schedule on Sunday, January 19.
Meet Jack & Gil
BY SHAWN GILL | GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENT
Whether you have been a Member for years or joined last month, you’ve undoubtedly heard of the infamous duo in charge of keeping the SGCC grounds free of Canadian geese, Jack and Gil (pronounced “Jill”). They are surely the most popular members of the Greens Department team and two of the most important as well!
If you’ve played much golf in the DMV area, then you’ve definitely encountered the downside of the beautiful birds. Canadian geese are voracious eaters and particularly love munching on grass in the wide-open spaces of golf courses. Along with the damage inflicted by chewing on sensitive turf, “what goes in must come out” and this is where they can make a round of golf pretty ugly and stinky. Thanks to Jack and Gil, we stay virtually goose-free at all times.
The geese try to find nesting spots in the spring and stop over for an overnight meal while migrating, but they never stay long. I have seen Jack literally crisscross the entire golf course multiple times without a second of rest, tracking the flying geese, making sure they know that there is no safe place to land on “his” property. I have seen him jump in the pond when it is 40 degrees outside and swim after the geese until he is so exhausted and cold that I have to call him out to prevent
him drowning, and even then, he only begrudgingly exits the water. And what about Gil? While not quite as enthusiastic, she does her job well. She might give up on the foot chase a little sooner than Jack, but if I can coax her into the water, her higher buoyancy makes her a very good swimmer and her intelligence makes her good at working in tandem with Jack to corral and conquer the web-footed beasts.
So where do Jack and Gil come from? Believe it or not, Jack was bred and raised to be a herding dog and later taught to be a golf course goose control dog. He was purchased from Big Bend Farm, breeders in Millboro, VA, and arrived here to start living his best life in 2017. He may have been trained on a small farm, but he loves the wide-open expanse of the golf course. At 9 ½ years old, Jack still has amazing speed and stamina and lets me know if I’m not giving him enough run time. Gil, a lab/ border collie mix, was adopted locally a couple of years after Jack. She is 7 years old, but still a puppy at heart.
The story goes that Jack needed a friend to help pass the hours after the Maintenance team left for the day, so in came Gil. You might not know, but they actually live at the Maintenance Facility, so they do spend a considerable amount of time alone together. I’m not completely sure what they do after we’ve left
for the day, but I do know that Gil keeps a keen ear out for strangers, or friends, passing by and if you meet her at the gate with a treat she’s sure to put you on her mental schedule and expect a visit on a daily basis. Sometimes in the shop in the early morning, we get to see one of their wrestling matches. They put on quite the show with a lot of fake biting and one-upmanship. Gil is clearly the Alpha dog, whether running around the course or battling in the shop. However, when Jack has had enough of playtime or Gil gets a bit over-aggressive, he lets her know to back off.
I’ve learned a lot from these two about the different types of intelligence that dogs exhibit. Jack has been trained and learned his job well. If he hears geese, he becomes laser focused and knows how to make sure they leave our property. When the chase is over, he returns to the last place that he was with me, and if I have left that area, he’ll head to the shop. If not following alongside me, he diligently waits, lying down on the floor of the cart, until we are ready to start off on another run. He’s sort of a one-person dog and doesn’t really like leaving my side. When you see him on the course, he is not what I would call overly friendly. He is nervous around new people and will cower in the cart and tremble when strangers come to say hi. His behavior can be odd at times: he’ll also sprint toward golfers, carts, and the occasional tree, barking wildly, only to stop and turn away with his tail wagging. We’ve never been able
to completely explain this, but it may be that he is very nearsighted. For new Members who don’t know Jack, this can be a harrowing experience, but I assure you, he has never and has no interest in attacking anyone. When it is time for him to rest at the shop or I have to take care of things where he cannot go, he pretty much spends his time lying on the floor or in his bed underneath my desk. We always spend a little quality time together before I leave for the day (me petting and grooming him and letting him know that I WILL be coming back).
Then there is Gil! To you, she is the friendly, affectionate dog that just wants some loving and a delicious treat. And yes, she is all that, but so much more. She possesses human-like intelligence and chooses where she’ll go and whether or not to listen to me based on what SHE wants. She pays attention to the routes that I drive my cart and takes short cuts to avoid excessive exercise. She knows which properties around the course perimeter are likely to have something tasty to eat outside their homes and she wanders off to them if I am not paying attention. Let me correct that, even if I am paying attention, she’ll try to head off. I’ll yell for her to come back, at which point she stops and turns back to look at me, then she looks back away to her destination, then back at me again, as if she is weighing her options and deciding if the possibility of a scrumptious morsel is worth the anticipated punishment. I really don’t believe that negative reinforcement works particularly well if you want to have
happy, well-behaved dogs. However, Gil is so smart that I think she understands repercussions and makes her decisions based on net gain/loss analysis. By the way, the punishment consists of a little time in the shop (think time-out for children) or in our outdoor kennel if the weather is nice. I give you as an example of her understanding the fact that if I have to pursue her and bring her back to the shop, she jumps out of the cart and goes immediately into the kennel, knowing that she has done wrong. Of course that never lasts long because I am just a softy at heart. When I open up the gate she comes out wagging her tail, expecting some loving. Gil also knows individual Members by sight. She knows which ones carry treats and will sprint across a couple holes on the course when she sees these people. TAB’s cart is another sure thing, and she knows to head there if she sees him making his rounds. And then there is Max. She knows that he likes to take a walk on many afternoons and stops by the shop gate to give her something tasty. Gosh, no wonder the vet keeps telling me she needs to lose a little weight! Oh well, as long as she’s happy, all good.
Jack and Gil are truly indispensable members of the Greens Crew here at SGCC and deserve all the love and support that they get from the Membership. In 36 years working at golf courses with ponds and lakes of many sizes, I have never seen one that has so few geese at any time of the year. They really earn their keep!
