Grey Oaks Country Club Fall 2023 LIVING Magazine

LIVING

Grey Oaks Welcomes Senior Director of Golf

See Page 4 for details.

Dear Grey Oaks Members,

In this issue of the LIVING magazine, we are focusing on golf and the joys that come from playing the game in all its forms.  At Grey Oaks, we are blessed to have three distinct golf courses, each providing a unique and different experience.

For members wanting to perfect their swings, the full-service Golf Performance Center offers lessons, clinics, K-Vest technology, Mach 3 speed training, master club fitting, as well as a new short game area and state-of-the-art Inrange® radar technology.

To me, however, golf is more than the courses, the equipment, or the technology and instruction to improve one’s game.  It is ultimately about the comradery and friendships that are developed over a single game, or many years of rounds of golf.

I grew up on Long Island in the metropolitan New York area and was privileged to spend days playing on some of the world’s best golf courses at clubs such as Westchester Country Club, Meadowbrook, Quaker Ridge, Atlantic, Century, and Winged Foot.  I worked for the LPGA at the Corning Classic and, because of that experience, have memories and Hall of Famers as lifelong friends.  I had the honor of hosting the NCAA Men’s Championship, the U.S. Amateur, and numerous PGA Tour events at two of the top clubs in the United States.  As exciting as the tournament action was, however, what provided me with a lifetime of memories were the people with whom I had the privilege of meeting.  From club members, fellow staff, PGA and LPGA Tour pros, I have been on golf courses with some of the best in the industry.

Perhaps the most wonderful memories of golf that were made involved my father (who is now deceased). Each September, a select group of people was invited to Maidstone Club in East Hampton.  The Monday after the club had closed for the season, we would be invited out with their caddies to play the famous course.  Each year, my guest was my father.  With the spectacular backdrop of the dunes, the Hamptons, and the Atlantic Ocean, we would spend the day enjoying each other’s company playing golf, catching up on the year, and talking.  Later in my career on Long Island, if I came home early on a Sunday, I could catch Dad at the Huntington Country Club and enjoy a few holes.  I miss him dearly and am glad the game of golf provided a lifetime of memories for us.

Although I am not playing currently, I hope sometime in the future to start actively enjoying golf again.

As we start another winter season at Grey Oaks, please take the time to enjoy your family and friends and create your own memories on the golf courses and at our golf facilities.

DON EMERY, CCM, CCE GENERAL MANAGER

WITH 35 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE IN THE GOLF INDUSTRY, GREY OAKS COUNTRY CLUB’S SENIOR DIRECTOR OF GOLF IS LEADING THE TEAM OF CERTIFIED PGA PROFESSIONALS & GOLF STAFF

Meet Marty DeAngelo

Grey Oaks Country Club strives to offer a robust golf experience for its members with 54 award-winning holes amongst three championship courses that challenge each golfer with unique and finely engineered designs. With the expansion of the short game practice area and driving range in early 2023 and renovation of the Pine Course to finish in November, Grey Oaks golfers are teed up and ready to take full advantage of an elevated golf experience with renewed and enhanced infrastructure, courses and dedicated staff.

Marty DeAngelo joined Grey Oaks this summer after more than a decade at Medinah Country Club. There, he was in charge of 54 holes of golf, all aspects of the Club’s experience and an operating budget of $8.5 million per year. As a Class A member of the PGA of America, Marty holds numerous professional affiliations and memberships, as well as specialty club fitting certifications with Titleist, USGA, Callaway and others.

Marty’s journey in the world of golf has been marked by an unwavering passion for the sport and an unyielding pursuit of excellence. He has earned a reputation for innovation, leadership, and an innate ability to create golfing environments that resonate deeply with players of all levels. His vision aligns seamlessly with the philosophy of Grey Oaks, where a commitment to exceeding member expectations and fostering a sense of community is paramount.

We sat down recently with Marty to hear what he has been up to since joining Grey Oaks and what he has planned into 2024.

What drew you to Grey Oaks Country Club?

I knew that Grey Oaks was a very prestigious, well-respected club. When Don Emery reached out to me with this wonderful opportunity, it definitely piqued my interest. The campus is absolutely spectacular, and it was incredible to see how new and updated the facilities are, as well as the plans to update other aspects of the Club over the next few years. Grey Oaks has incredible people –both members and staff. I’m very happy to be here and am very excited about the future.

What led you to make golf your career?

My parents instilled a strong work ethic in me at a young age, which helped me become a decent golfer. I went to college on a scholarship which is when I was first introduced to Florida. After an initial position as a head golf pro in Illinois, I decided to try my hand at playing professionally on tours. I played some Canadian tours and did prequalify for the PGA Tour at one point. But after getting married to my wife, she told me I needed to start thinking about getting a real job (she was right). Ultimately, I decided that golf was my real job and I’ve been fortunate to gain great experience and work in operations from the ground up, which has given me a really solid foundation. At the end of the day, I’m a people person. I enjoy serving people and listening to their thoughts and opinions. That trait has served me well, along with an eye for detail when it comes to running operations. That’s what I truly enjoy most about my career – building a team where everyone is working together toward the same goal.

What are your main priorities over the next six months?

I’m in the early stages of building a team that is cohesive and works well together. I’m really looking forward to engaging with everyone here and getting that rolling for the membership. As far as how that relates to the golf operation, consider it “business as usual” for the remainder of this year, but our members will see increased attention to detail and an engaged atmosphere amongst staff that will relay into a comfortable, connected atmosphere for members. I’m very focused on observing and taking notes this year so that I can get a true understanding of the Club from the ground up before next summer, when I plan to start implementing new programming and other offerings to elevate the golf experience even further – things like new tournaments and merchandising.

Why is golf going through a resurgence in popularity?

Overall, interest in golf increased during the pandemic. Golf was one of the few things that people could safely do, especially in a private club setting. So that created a lot of demand with membership across the industry and really introduced a lot of new people to the sport.

The future of golf also looks very promising with new technology that has been developed and introduced to golfers. Across the country, technology is disrupting the golf industry. You can see this with indoor team golf events, for example. It’s attracting more people to the game who previously weren’t interested in playing. For Grey Oaks to make an investment in technology like Inrange, especially as one of the first private clubs to do so, gives strong advantages. But it’s up to us as golf professionals to use our creativity in developing programming, events and other activities for members to engage and then gauge success. My anticipation is that we’ll exceed our own expectations, which are already quite high.

What should members expect when playing on the newly renovated Pine Course once it reopens?

Now to be fair, I never saw the old course in person. But by looking and walking this new Pine Course and knowing Andrew Green’s body of work, it appears it will be generous to members off the tee. There is a variety of tee boxes. The course is going to challenge players and require some strategy on where they want to be when approaching the green. It will also be more challenging for players around the green. Knowing Andrew, he likes to put a little more slope in the green. It’s been a recent trend in golf course design to give a lot more open space around the green and that means the golfer will have a lot of variety to approach the shot. It’s going to be very interesting. A tip to members … work on your short game and putting now before the course reopens!

— MARTY DEANGELO

BIRDIES FOR BELLA

Bella Michetti, daughter of members Michael Jr. and Jennifer and granddaughter of members Michael Sr. and Lauren, has been a regular fixture on the Grey Oaks golf courses and at the Golf Performance Center since the age of five.  With a natural talent for the game, young Bella began attending clinics and taking lessons with instructors, including Bob Usher, and was soon joining her father at the Club for a weekly golf game.

Her love of golf then led to tournament play beginning at the age of seven.  By age eleven, Bella was shooting in the 70’s and becoming a rising star on the junior golf circuit.

Currently an eighth grader at Community School of Naples with a GHIN of 4.2, Bella has been a member of the school’s varsity high school golf team since the sixth grade.  The talented CSN team has been to two consecutive State Finals.

Earlier this summer, Bella spent time in Michigan where she played in the Under 15 division at the Michigan State Amateur.  She won the Michigan 2023 Tour Championship at MSU-Forest Akers, was an Optimist District qualifier at Michigan State University and won or placed in multiple Callaway/Meijer Junior Tour events.  Since returning to Naples, she has continued to play for CSN’s 2023 undefeated team and most recently finished fifth in a Florida Junior Tour event shooting 79 and 75 over two rounds.

Over the next few years, Bella plans to continue playing competitively and we may see her wearing maize and blue!  Her goal is to earn a spot as a Wolverine on the University of Michigan’s Division I Women’s Golf Team.  A choice her father, a UM alum, is happy to hear.

As for her long-term goals, Bella would like to participate in the Women’s Amateur at Augusta and, ultimately, play on the Epson Tour with an eye toward advancing onto the LPGA Tour.

When asked to share her favorite part of playing golf, Bella states, “I enjoy traveling and meeting fellow players from around the country and the world. I also like spending time with my friends and family on the course.”

We are so proud of Bella and excited to see what the future holds for her.

Highlights of Bella’s career include:

• Participating in the U.S. Kids’ World Championships in Pinehurst, NC, in 2020, 2022, and 2023

• Playing in the following U.S. Kids’ local/ regional/national events:

• Jekyll Island Cup (Jekyll Island, GA, 2021, 2022, 2023)

• Texas Open (Horseshoe Bay, TX, 2022)

• PGA Golf Club Invitational (Port St. Lucie, FL, 2022)

• Colonial Williamsburg Classic (Williamsburg, VA, 2021, 2022)

• Red, White & Blue Invitational (Pinehurst, NC, 2021, 2022)

• Sarasota Local Tour Champion (Sarasota, FL, 2021)

• Copperhead Classic (Palm Harbor, FL, 2020, 2022)

• Holiday Classic (West Palm Beach, FL, 2020)

• Winning the 12-year-old division at the South Florida PGA Junior Tournament in Ft. Myers

Let the Games Begin!

GREY OAKS ELEVATES THE MEMBER GOLF EXPERIENCE WITH RADAR TECHNOLOGY

By Mira Hale Crigler

The official debut of our 30-bay GO Play Inrange entertainment-focused experience at the Golf Performance Center has been a huge success. Members have been playing the target games as well as measuring their golf swing mechanics through the technology offered on touch screens and a matching mobile app. They are also viewing their shot tracings, just like the pros in televised tournaments, and tracking their distances, ball speeds, launch angles, strokes gained, and much more.

The two covered bays under the pergola have been particularly popular as members tee it up on simulated courses like Bethpage Black and Whistling Straits. “This technology appeals to casual and serious golfers alike, as it creates an environment for fun and practice, regardless of experience level. The immediate feedback is helpful as well for golfers wishing to improve specific aspects of their game,” said Marty DeAngelo, Senior Director of Golf.

Continued on next page...

With the installation of soft seating, tables, televisions, and a grill adjacent to the pergola, plans are in place for food and beverage service similar to what is offered at the bocce complex. Within the next few months, the space will be available for private group functions reserved through our catering department. From a pre-wedding bachelor “Top Golf” experience to a 19th hole party for your golf group, this new venue space has lots of potential for immersive golf gaming events.

As the second private country club in the United States to offer Inrange technology to its membership, we are excited to see what the future holds for this innovative concept.

Between Golf & Fitness COLLABORATION

By Bob Usher, PGA

Throughout my career, I’ve taught golfers of all skill levels. During my time in Georgia, I had the opportunity to work with many young athletic golfers whose high level of fitness was as big an asset to their golf games as their golf swings were. They could do things that many of my older students couldn’t.

BOB USHER, PGA

Director of Instruction

239-431-0408

busher@greyoakscc.com

When I came to Grey Oaks, I found I had more senior students on my roster, and the focus on how to help them seemed to change. I had always been very effective in guiding elite athletes to improve their games, but I struggled with my new member base, as they often lacked balance, flexibility, mobility, strength, and endurance. I knew that even though I had been teaching for many years, I had to educate myself regarding the older demographic to truly help them improve. Therefore, I registered for Titleist Performance Institute (TPI) certification classes to understand the correlation between a golfer’s physical limitations and their swing flaws. The program includes TPI body screening, video swing analysis, and a body/swing corrections plan.

Utilizing my newfound knowledge, I started to make some traction with our members, helping them move their bodies better.

At the same time, I made sure to always encourage them to use the Wellness Center to receive guidance from our team of fitness professionals. Leaving the fitness side of things to the experts, I’d check with the trainers to see how my golf students were doing in the gym so I knew what to expect when we got back on the range.

My relationship with our personal training staff is a close one. I’ll stop into the Wellness Center as often as possible and will copy the trainers on the lesson recap emails that I send to my students. I also share pictures and videos taken during golf lessons with our Director of Fitness, Les Johns, so he can share them with the members’ trainers.

In addition to TPI fitness protocols, I’ve incorporated Mach 3 Speed Training and K-VEST technology into my teaching program. Mach 3 sessions include circuit training along with oscillating resistance to improve the student’s clubhead speed. K-VEST technology uses biofeedback and a combination of visual and auditory cues so the golfer uses the right muscles to make the right movements.

I can’t stress enough how important your fitness level is to your golf game.

The main benefits include:

• Injury prevention

• Adding speed and power to your swing

• Having more control over your swing

• Reducing fatigue on the course

The Club’s collaboration between golf and fitness provides the best of both worlds for you. We highly encourage you to utilize the equipment and services available at the Wellness and Golf Performance Centers. We can customize a training program specific to your needs and skill level. Contact us today to begin your golf fitness training plan.

To schedule your customized training session, contact:

Bob Usher, Director of Instruction 239-431-0408

busher@greyoakscc.com

Les Johns, Director of Wellness

239-262-2488 ext. 195

ljohns@greyoakscc.com

Left:

Les Johns demonstrates the proper technique for rotational power for a better golf swing.

SUMMER

TIME at Grey Oaks

Moorings Park at Grey Oaks

The Rare Lifestyle No Other Country Club Can Offer Boomers and Seniors

As you enter your later retirement years, you may have considered relocating to a community that prioritizes your health, but did you know that you already live in one? Grey Oaks residents can remain in their cherished homes while fully taking advantage of the healthcare services offered at Moorings Park at Grey Oaks, located just across the street from your beautiful community.

Country Club Living Meets World-Class Healthcare

With a tradition of excellence that is complemented by A or A+ ratings by Fitch and S&P Global Ratings, Moorings Park at Grey Oaks Life Plan Community provides a number of exceptional healthcare programs and integrated wellness opportunities that you can take advantage of whether you are living here or not.

Our Care 360 healthcare program, in partnership with NCH Healthcare System, grants you access to our concierge physicians and a higher level of personalized healthcare 24/7, and Assisted Living and Memory Care suites are available should needs arise. These services are included for Moorings Park residents and can be contracted on a month-to-month basis for residents of Grey Oaks.

Our outpatient therapy programs are tailored to meet your needs and include physical, speech, occupational, vestibular therapy and more, while our Home Health Agency services range from skilled nursing and life care management to dedicated VIP personal assistance and private duty services. These are add-on services for both Grey Oaks and Moorings Park residents.

Simply the Best® Amenities and Activities

Simply the Best® Amenities and Activities

At Moorings Park at Grey Oaks, you can take comfort in knowing that these higher levels of care are available with residency, but that’s not the only celebrated facet of this vibrant community, where these wellness opportunities are integrated with a physically and socially active lifestyle.

At Moorings Park at Grey Oaks, you can take comfort in knowing that these higher levels of care are available with residency, but that’s not the only celebrated facet of this vibrant community, where these wellness opportunities are integrated with a physically and socially active lifestyle.

You’re Invited to Our Special Event

Moorings Park at Grey Oaks has so much to offer, and we’re inviting you to join us for cocktails and hors d’oeuvres on Thursday, November 9th at 3:30 p.m. in the Garden Room and Veranda of the Clubhouse at Grey Oaks Country Club to learn more about this esteemed community. Complimentary valet service will be provided.

Moorings Park at Grey Oaks has so much to offer, and we’re inviting you to join us for cocktails and hors d’oeuvres on Thursday, November 9th at 3:30 p.m. in the Garden Room and Veranda of the Clubhouse at Grey Oaks Country Club to learn more about this esteemed community. Complimentary valet service will be provided.

As a resident, you can dine in one of the community’s three restaurants, that all feature savory, seasonal menus, celebrated wine lists, and impeccable service that goes above and beyond expectation. Get fit in the state-of-the-art fitness center, experience the epitome of self-care in the Rejuvenate Salon and Spa, or mingle across many meticulously curated social areas, like the covered outdoor terraces, rooftop gardens, and fire pits.

As a resident, you can dine in one of the community’s three restaurants, that all feature savory, seasonal menus, celebrated wine lists, and impeccable service that goes above and beyond expectation. Get fit in the state-of-the-art fitness center, experience the epitome of self-care in the Rejuvenate Salon and Spa, or mingle across many meticulously curated social areas, like the covered outdoor terraces, rooftop gardens, and fire pits.

In addition to hearing about the luxurious residences, you will learn how to access the community’s world-class healthcare services, which include concierge physicians and Assisted Living and Memory Care, while still enjoying the Grey Oaks Country Club lifestyle even if you are not a resident. It truly is the best of both worlds, and we look forward to telling you more.

In addition to hearing about the luxurious residences, you will learn how to access the community’s world-class healthcare services, which include concierge physicians and Assisted Living and Memory Care, while still enjoying the Grey Oaks Country Club lifestyle even if you are not a resident. It truly is the best of both worlds, and we look forward to telling you more.

If you’re looking to enjoy Naples’ year-long summer, a resort-style pool and spa with cabanas awaits. The entire campus is pet-friendly and offers many rubberized walking paths that converge with multi-purpose lawn areas. Not only that, but residents also receive a Grey Oaks Sports Membership, meaning year-round access to the Grey Oaks fitness center, unlimited golf play in the off-season, tennis clinics, access to dining venues, and much more.

If you’re looking to enjoy Naples’ year-long summer, a resort-style pool and spa with cabanas awaits. The entire campus is pet-friendly and offers many rubberized walking paths that converge with multi-purpose lawn areas. Not only that, but residents also receive a Grey Oaks Sports Membership, meaning year-round access to the Grey Oaks fitness center, unlimited golf play in the off-season, tennis clinics, access to dining venues, and much more.

Those planning to attend are asked to RSVP by November 7th, by calling 239-643-9111, visiting MooringsPark.org/GOCC, or by scanning the QR code below.

Those planning to attend are asked to RSVP by November 7th, by calling 239-643-9111, visiting MooringsPark.org/GOCC, or by scanning the QR code below.

You’re Invited to Our Special Event