Rhianna Slipec

Captain’s Message

To the Members of Niakwa Country Club,

As Club Captain I write this message in regard to the ongoing issues that are affecting the experience at our club.

As a top tier private country club, Niakwa carries with it an expectation of excellence—not only in the quality of the facilities and course, but in the way members respect and contribute to our shared environment. Maintaining the integrity and beauty of our course is a collective responsibility, and it’s clear that, at times, this responsibility is not being upheld. We call upon all members to help shift this culture immediately.

When you’re out on the course, please understand the following are expectations, not requests:

• Bunkers should be raked carefully and thoroughly after use. This also applies to those playing in the evening. The course team does not have the ability to complete a full rake prior to play, so any footprint left in the evening, may affect members playing in the morning.
• Ball marks must be repaired, including your own and any others you can attend to while waiting. 
• Golf carts should remain on cart paths wherever possible, respect directional signage and stay at least 20 yards away from the greens unless you have express permission to go elsewhere. 
• Cigarette butts are to be disposed of properly-not in the divot mix bottles, on the ground, or anywhere on the course. Use a garbage bin or take them back with you to dispose of at the back shop. Please be mindful of others on the range as well. If you smoke, take an outside spot where the wind takes the smoke away from people beside you.
• Greens and pins require special care. Many members putt with the flagstick in, but this has led to visible wear and tear on even the best-cut holes by 10 am. To preserve the work of our maintenance staff, it’s recommended that you remove the pin and gently retrieve your ball.

Additionally, for early tee times:

• Do not hit up on players or staff.  The staff require time and space to complete their work preparing the course for play and members should be allowed to complete their round in timely fashion, without being unduly pushed. Adjust your pace of play accordingly to give the maintenance team time to do their job properly.

As always, divots should be filled with the provided divot mix, especially large ones that be collected by mowers.

The practice green should never have range balls on it. This is not an appropriate look for a private club. If you would like to work on your game, please use your own balls.

When practicing in the back lot, please collect your balls when finished for the next person. Common courtesy. 

On a positive note, I must say my overall experience this year has been significantly improved, and I want to thank all those—members and staff—who’ve contributed to that.

Lastly, a few important reminders:

• When bringing a guest to the club, please ensure they are aware of and follow all club expectations. We want them to enjoy the same high standards we all appreciate as members.
• If you experience any issues with staff, course conditions, food and beverage, or service, please do not engage with staff directly. These matters should be brought to Wade or Terry so they can be addressed properly.

Let’s work together to keep Niakwa the exceptional club we all take pride in.

Jay Doyle

Club Captain