Wuskowhan takes its name from the Narragansett Indian word for “wanderer” – also the name that tribe gave to the passenger pigeon. The now-extinct birds were frequently hunted by the Narragansett, and nested by the millions throughout the region a century ago.
Wuskowhan’s history is grounded in a fundamental respect for both nature and the game of golf. These tenets can be found within the club philosophy and motto:
Club Philosophy:
To provide an exceptional golfing and clubhouse experience for those who love the game and to preserve the environment in which it is played.
Club Motto:
Dress and act within the Traditions of Golf.
In 1994, the founders of Wuskowhan Players Club set out to provide a truly great experience for those with a passion for golf. The club would have no swimming pools. No tennis courts. What it would have is a standing, fundamental commitment to provide members with an exceptional living tribute to the game.
The club’s dedication to environmental preservation and stewardship extends beyond its name and philosophy. Wuskowhan was the first course in Michigan to be designated as an Audubon Signature Sanctuary, signifying a commitment to environmental excellence in the management of the land.
Today, the result is a club that, in many ways, brings the player closer to the game of golf and its natural surroundings than any other. The club and the land have grown and matured together, creating the ideal destination for golfers –
the true player’s course.
Wuskowhan prides itself on offering its members world-class play in beautiful natural surroundings, complemented by a comfortable and relaxing clubhouse environment. To continually deliver on this commitment, the club has assembled an outstanding group of talented professionals, all focused on your satisfaction.
Our Director of Golf, Kirk Scheerhorn, has been with Wuskowhan Players Club for the past ten years and brings a wealth of experience and insight to our operation. Prior to joining Wuskowhan, Kirk was the professional at Birchwood Farms Golf and Country Club in Harbor Springs, Michigan for 15 years. The 1995 Michigan PGA Head Professional Champion, Kirk has been teaching the game for 29 years. He and his staff in the Wuskowhan Golf Department offer members private lessons and stage multiple clinics and golf schools during the season.
Associate Professional Paul Townsend as been with Wuskowhan for 7 seasons. Among his responsibilities are the Wuskowhan Junior Golf Program. The program was created to help young people develop their fundamental golf skills, along with an understanding of the rules and basic course etiquette. Wuskowhan Players Club recognizes the importance of fostering youth participation in golf, both for the growth of the game and to help member families make the most of all the club has to offer. Paul also oversees Guest Services, Tournament Setup and Wuskowhan's Caddie Program.
Jim Powell leads the way in the Kitchen as Wuskowhan's Executive Chef. Jim Powell was the executive chef and owner of Gibson's restaurant in Grand Rapids for 24 years and the executive chef at the Peninsular Club in Grand Rapids from 2005-2008. Jim is returning for his third season as Executive Chef of Wuskowhan.
Of course, the Wuskowhan golf course is the club’s most important asset. Superintendent Ryan Osborn knows attention to detail ultimately separates good courses from the truly great ones, and keeps the course in tournament condition every day. Stimpmeter readings on greens are maintained at 10-11 daily, and all greens and tees are cut with walking mowers. Our maintenance equipment is state-of-the-art, ensuring optimal conditions from tee to green for every round.
The same attention to detail can be found throughout the club’s other facilities, thanks to General Manager Kevin Dushane. Kevin oversees all main office, clubhouse and dining room operations, and understands what members value and expect from a world-class golf club. His efforts keep Wuskowhan a comfortable, enjoyable destination with distinctive service at every turn – including outstanding meals.