ALUMNAE ASSOCIATION GOLF ACADEMY
May 31- June 3, 2009

Join us for the second annual Golf Academy at The Orchards for three and a half days of learning, practice, networking and recreation. The program begins mid-day on Sunday, May 31, and will run through Wednesday, June 3, dates immediately following the second reunion weekend. The Golf Academy is open exclusively to alumnae, their guests, and friends of the College, and enrollment is limited to 32 participants. The fee for the 2009 Golf Academy is $695 and includes lessons, green fees, carts, practice balls, souvenir gifts, receptions, breakfasts, lunches, snacks, and one gala dinner at The Orchards Clubhouse overlooking the green.

Highlights include:

• Lessons with outstanding PGA and LPGA golf professionals:
  
• Jim Stickles, head golf professional and general manager of The Orchards
  
• Coach Bob Bontempo, founder of the MHC varsity golf team
  
• Shawn Durocher, current golf instructor and coach at MHC
  
• Additional select PGA and LPGA instructors

Lessons geared to the playing level of the participants:

• Experienced players will have the opportunity to play at least 9 or 18 holes every day. They will also be able to play Sunday and Tuesday evenings, and after the program ends on Wednesday
  
• New players will learn all aspects of play from the lengthy tee shot to the refinements of chipping, putting, and bunker play. Also included is a clinic on course rules and etiquette.

One day at the exclusive Hickory Ridge Country Club in Amherst, MA

• 18-hole tournament golf course
  
• Stunning views of the Holyoke range and tree-lined, beautifully contoured greens
  
• A gourmet luncheon at the private Hickory Ridge Country Club restaurant
  
• An evening created to explore the Valley's fabulous restaurants

Space is limited, so please register early. We look forward to seeing you!
Register Now

FAQ.

Mount Holyoke College Golf School at The Orchards
May 31- June 3, 2009

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

When does the program start? It starts after Reunion II on Sunday, May 31. Registration will take place from 1:30 -2 pm, followed by lessons and a welcome reception.

When does the program end? Lessons will finish on Wednesday at 11:30 am, followed by a celebratory luncheon, which ends at 1 pm.

Is the program for alumnae only? No, the program is open to alumnae, their families and friends, and any other friend of the College – male or female. Children should be over the age of 15, but exceptions may be made for experienced younger golfers.

Who should attend?
The golf academy is designed for players of all levels. Participants will be divided into small groups by playing ability, and will be taught by an instructor who will stay with that group. New golfers (even those who have never picked up a club before) are welcome.

How will you know what level/group to put me in?
The registration form asks you to rate yourself. In addition, the instructors will do a quick assessment on Sunday to make sure everyone is the appropriate group.

What is the student/instructor ration? Depending on the number of participants and their experience-level, you can expect to be in a group of no more than five to seven players.

Who are the golf instructors? The instructors are all PGA and/or LPGA golf professionals with extensive experience teaching. Jim Stickels is the director of golf and general manager of The Orchards. Shawn Durocher is the coach of the Mount Holyoke College golf team. Bob Bontempo taught golf at MHC for years and now teaches extensively throughout Western Mass. Marissa Kulig is a "high-demand" instructor in Western Massachusetts.  Each of these instructors taught in last year’s program and received accolades from participants.

I’ve never played golf before…what will the lessons be like? Beginners will spend much of the time in clinics on the practice greens learning the basics. There will be lessons on the course as well. Instruction will include all the basic skills: chipping, putting, tee shots, bunker shots, and the long game, as well as course etiquette and rules.

I’m an experienced player…what will the lessons be like? Experienced payers will have a chance to discuss their goals with the instructors and develop a strategy to hone their desired skill areas. Most instruction will take place on the course and players will play at least 9 holes every day.

What if I don’t have golf clubs? Please let us know when you register and we will provide clubs for you. We will need to know your height and if you are right- or left-handed.

Is there a dress code? Yes. Please see The Orchards dress code below. Also, please bring a peaked hat and sunglasses.
Women's Dress Code:
• Tank tops, halter tops, or tops with deeply scooped necklines are not permitted.
• Sleeveless tops must have collars and cover all of the shoulder.
• Shorts are permitted, but must fall no higher than 4 inches above the bend in the back of the knee.
• Denim in any form is not permitted in the clubhouse or on the golf course. The definition of denim extends to pants, skirts, shorts, shirts, or any article of clothing made from denim.
Men's Dress Code:
Shirts with collars and sleeves are required and must be tucked in at all times. Mock neck shirts are acceptable.
• Shorts are permitted, but must fall no higher than 4 inches above the bend in the back of the knee.
• Pants and shorts with elastic waist bands are not permitted.
• Denim in any form is not permitted in the clubhouse or on the golf course. The definition of denim extends to pants, skirts, shorts, shirts, or any article of clothing made from denim.
Do I need to buy golf shoes? No, a sturdy pair of athletic shoes will be fine. Golf shoes will give you a better grip but are not required for the Golf Academy.

What happens if it rains?  If it rains, we will hold indoor lessons at the MHC Field house .

NOTE: Make sure you bring the appropriate clothes for the fitness center just in case!

Is lodging included? No, lodging is not included; however, we have booked a block of rooms at the Day’s Inn in Chicopee, a short drive from the Orchards at a discounted rate of $72 plus tax. There are also two B&B’s within walking distance of the Orchards, and several other lodging options in the area. We will send a list to you upon request or click here to view it.

Can I stay at Willits-Hallowell or in one of the residence halls on campus? No, unfortunately there is no availability on campus due to previously scheduled events.

What meals are included in the program fee? All meals, with the exception of two dinners, are included with the program. Snacks and two receptions (cash bar) are also included.

What do we do for dinner on the free nights? On Sunday and Monday you will have the opportunity to sample some of the excellent restaurants in the area. There are several restaurants ranging from fine dining to casual near campus and many more within a 20- minute drive. Northampton, in particular, is renowned for its eclectic assortment of outstanding dining options. We will provide sample menus and assist with reservations. On Monday, we will offer Dine-Around Service by listing restaurants and asking interested participants to sign-up. This will provide a chance to spend time with players who are not in your small instruction group.

I’d like to attend the golf school but my spouse/ friend just wants to play golf. Can he/she play at The Orchards? The Orchards is a private club so priority must go to members. However, if possible, The Orchards will accommodate friends and family of golf school participants. If no tee times are available, we can suggest several excellent public golf courses in the area.

What else is included in the fee? All instruction, green fees, carts, practice balls and a Rules Book are included. And there will be a memento or two! You will not be charged if you need to borrow clubs.

Are there optional activities? We have arranged to visit Fran Johnson’s Golf and Tennis shop on Monday evening for anyone who may be interested in shopping for equipment, shoes, or clothes. Fran Johnson’s is the largest retailer for all things golf (and tennis) in the area and specializes in custom clubs and the latest golf fashions.

Who receives the proceeds of the Golf Academy? Any proceeds will benefit the MHC Alumnae Association. The Association hopes to make Golf Academy a regular event and to offer it in the fall as well as the spring.

What if my question was not answered in the FAQ? Please email
golfacademy@mtholyoke.edu or call 413-538-2300 for further assistance.