GOLF OUTING A
SWINGING GOOD TIME
Change is often difficult for people to adjust to.
Psychologists even caution people that their health could be at risk if they experience too many changes in a calendar year, referencing things like marital status, a new job, or even a change in residence.
Although not quite as dramatic, this year's Golf Committee went out on the limb as they advocated for a new course, new day, and new starting time.
"We really inherited a well-oiled machine," quipped Pete Ledebuhr, one of the new co-chairs along with Nick Gabrione. "The job Bill Hayes '84 and Bill Blum '88 did for seven years was amazing. We just wanted to introduce some things which we thought might be enjoyable for the participants," he added.
I give both Pete and Nick a lot of credit," noted principal Karen Meskill. "
Their new ideas added excitement and enthusiasm to an already popular and wonderful outing."
Early on in committee meetings, it became clear that there would be an added emphasis on fun. While it was still a competitive round of golf, a few wrinkles were added to make the day a little more challenging.
They included Roulette Golf where you had to tee off with whichever club your spin landed on (or buy a chance for another spin); One Club golf where every player was restricted to one club from tee to green; and the most popular innovation of all, Beat the Nun.
"Sr. Mary Ann Dosen was a terrific addition to our day" noted Pete. "She was an excellent golfer, a great sport, took the challenge seriously, and surprised a lot of people with her competitive nature," Nick added. Golfers weren't sure what to expect when they arrived at the par 3 hole 14. Those who never attended Catholic school may have never seen a nun in habit and those who did probably thought all they did in their spare time was pray, read, and perhaps, knit.
Another innovation was a post-round Putting Contest sponsored by school parent Sean Farrell, owner of Lake Brothers Beer. Held on the putting green, it was well attended by the golfers, as well as those who couldn't golf but wanted to support this fundraiser by attending the Wine and Cheese party.
The festivities concluded with a Live Auction led by Dan Hanrahan and featuring items such as golf at Medinah and Rich Harvest, Cubs and Blackhawks tickets, reserved seating on Christmas Eve and Easter, a Skybox for 15 at Guaranteed Rate Field, and a four course dinner for 8 at King's Cafe with Chef Terrell.