Collaborative Design with Mike Devries

Show Notes

Summary

In this episode, we welcome Golf Course Architect Mike Devries. The trio discusses various golf-related topics, including the game's historical context, the evolution of golf course architecture partnerships, and the technological marvels of the SR-71. They also delve into collaborative golf course design dynamics, highlighting the importance of authenticity and complementary skills among partners. In this conversation, the speakers discuss their experiences and insights in golf architecture, focusing on Australia's Seven Mile Beach project. They emphasize the importance of honesty and collaboration in their work, the unique aspects of Australian golf culture compared to the US, and the excitement surrounding new golf courses. The discussion also touches on hidden gems in golf architecture, highlighting lesser-known but remarkable courses. In this conversation, Mike DeVries discusses the legacy of John Abercrombie and the restoration of the Addington Golf Course, highlighting the challenges and unique features of the course. He shares insights on innovative design concepts, such as the 19th hole, and reflects on the philosophy behind selecting underappreciated courses for restoration. DeVries emphasizes the importance of fun in golf course design and the future of golf in engaging new generations.

00:00 Introduction and Historical Context in Golf 05:03 The Evolution of Golf Course Architecture Partnerships 09:58 The Technological Marvels of the SR-71 and Its Impact 14:52 The Dynamics of Collaborative Golf Course Design 26:54 Honesty and Experience in Golf Architecture 33:30 The Seven Mile Beach Project 50:30 Golf Culture in Australia vs. the US 52:51 Hidden Gems in Golf Architecture 54:04 The Legacy of John Abercrombie and Addington Golf Course 57:54 Restoration Challenges and Unique Features of the 12th Hole 01:01:45 Innovative Course Design: The 19th Hole Concept 01:05:55 Underappreciated Gems: The Philosophy Behind Course Selections 01:09:20 The Importance of Fun in Golf Course Design 01:14:02 The Future of Golf: Engaging New Generations

NewClub > https://www.newclub.golf Titleist > https://www.titleist.com Devries Designs > https://devriesdesigns.com/ Clayton, Devries, Pont > https://www.cdpgolf.com/

Creators and Guests

Host

Matt Considine

Founder of NewClub and our resident feel player. Matt’s junior golf career led him to the University of Akron where he met our co-host. During his junior year, Matt Studied abroad in Ireland and discovered golf societies. Subsequent trips to Scotland fed his passion for the history, ideals, and culture of accessible, affordable, and sustainable golf, a concept he would later bring to the U.S. with NewClub. Known for his interviewing style, quick wit, and compelling storytelling, Matt brings thoughtful, reflective conversations to The Bag Drop. His professional journey before NewClub included multiple leadership positions in growth-stage startups, where he managed teams responsible for more than $250 million in revenue. Matt actively gives back to the game as a Board Member of the First Tee of Akron and past chair of the Evans Scholar Foundation. Proudly based in his hometown of Akron, Ohio, Matt finds inspiration in family life with his wife, their three children, and their golf dog, Gypsy.

Host

The Professor

NewClub's Chief Ambassador and every golf sicko's favorite educator. Kevin is a thoughtful and deeply curious host. His studied, constructivist approach adds intellectual enrichment and balance to the show. As a professor of Math Education at the University of Georgia, Kevin's background in applied mathematics and cognitive psychology uniquely informs his insights on golf strategy and performance. Originally from Ohio, Kevin was a Division I collegiate golfer at the University of Akron, where his passion for understanding mathematical thinking began. After earning his doctorate from Arizona State University, he combined his analytical expertise with his love for golf by co-founding Golf Blueprint, an organization aimed at helping golfers optimize their games through data-driven strategies. Kevin enjoys balancing deep philosophical discussions with simple pleasures, such as indulging his sweet tooth, cheering on college football, and spending relaxed evenings with his friends, his wife, and their beloved dog, Nole.

What is The Bag Drop: Untold Stories in Golf?

Weekly stories from the communities and characters shaping the game. The Bag Drop blends thoughtful, honest perspectives of Matt Considine (Founder of NewClub) and Dr. Kevin Moore ("The Professor") with expert insights for passionate golfers at every level. Produced by NewClub and supported by our members, each episode welcomes guests from clubs, courses, and the lesser-known corners of the golf world for thoughtful discussions on all things golf and life.

Founded in 2017, NewClub is the first of its kind golf society in the United States; blending the community and access of a private club with the variety and affordability more typical of public golf. Members enjoy thousands of reserved tee times, competitions, and events at exceptional partner courses across our local chapters, along with signature trips and exclusive perks. NewClub is on a mission to revolutionize golf membership, making the game more meaningful for everyone who loves it.

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