Jimmy Koosa Takes Charge of Timberlake Golf Operation, Aiming for Improvement and Growth
In Chapin, excitement is in the air as local golf enthusiast Jimmy Koosa takes charge of the golf operations at the esteemed Timberlake Country Club. What began as an ordinary meeting has turned into a golden opportunity for both Koosa and the club. Initially expecting a chat focused on golf instruction, Koosa soon found out that the board was looking for someone to manage the entire golf operation.
Embracing the Challenge
Koosa, with a rich history in sports, brings a unique perspective to the role. Having played three sports at Cardinal Newman High and even attempting a professional baseball career, he eventually found his footing in golf—a sport that has been both a passion and a means of making ends meet. With nearly four decades of experience from working at LinRick Golf Course for a mere $3 an hour to operating the Weed Hill Driving Range for over 30 years and establishing his own retail stores, he’s no stranger to the golf business. He sees the opportunity at Timberlake as a chance not just to manage but also to expand his brand.
Vision for Timberlake
Koosa is no novice when it comes to Timberlake either; he’s familiar with the club’s layout and history, having aided in the development of its celebrated Willard Byrd design. He describes the Timberlake golf course as not only an attractive venue but one with incredible potential. The jewel of the course, he notes, is the finishing hole, which boasts breathtaking views of Lake Murray. Koosa believes there’s a lot more to uncover to help elevate the course’s reputation.
Building a Dream Team
Among his plans, Koosa has assembled a solid management team that includes his son, Mickey, alongside seasoned PGA professionals like Blake Cathey and Matt Barton, plus former superintendent Steve Agazzi. Together, they bring a wealth of experience that Koosa believes is essential for moving the course forward.
Improvements in Progress
While Koosa is optimistic about the future, he knows that good things take time. He knows the members of Timberlake will need to be patient as improvements are rolled out. After just six weeks on the job, he anticipates it will take a solid six months before noticeable changes are made. Currently, a small four-man crew is juggling maintenance across five areas of the course every day, which presents its own set of challenges.
Despite the hurdles, Koosa has already reported considerable progress, particularly with the greens, which he rated an impressive **8** on a 10-point scale after starting at a **6**. However, other areas, such as the bunkers and overall irrigation, require more time and effort. He plans to tackle these issues head-on by reprogramming the sprinkler system, ensuring that every blade of grass gets the care it deserves.
A Balancing Act
Juggling the responsibilities at Timberlake alongside his other businesses has proven to be more time-consuming than Koosa originally anticipated. He continues to teach at Golden Hills and manage his retail store operations, proving that his passion for the sport runs deep. Yet, he maintains a positive outlook on this new endeavor, viewing it not as a burden but as an opportunity for growth—a chance to build something special.
In a world where golf club management can often feel stagnant, Koosa’s arrival at Timberlake brings a refreshing sense of hope and excitement, promising an era of improvement and growth for the club and its dedicated members.
