Grandville's Maple Hill: Much More Than a Golf Course

By Ray Brewer, Contributor

GRANDVILLE, Mich. - One of the biggest stereotypes in the sport of golf is the money required to become active in the game.

You know, a name brand golf shirt usually runs more than $50. And that is just the shirt.

What about purchasing clubs? And golf shoes?

Even though golf can be an expensive sport, there are several ways to avoid the high prices.

Especially if you stop by at the Maple Hill Golf Course's pro shop. This 3,000 square-foot store prizes itself in providing a cost affective way to hit the greens.

In fact, the course's pro shop receives more praise than its 18-holes of golf.

"We are best known for retail," store manager Andy Kitchen said. "We are more known as a golf store than a golf course. We have the biggest shop in western Michigan and people come for the equipment."

Kitchen says golfers from all walks of life can find what they need at his store.

"We have equipment to fit anybody's needs," Kitchen said. "We have a full, brand new set of clubs starting at $100. We stock everything from clubs for beginners to clubs for the most advanced golfer."

This includes all of the name brands.

"A lot of people think they have to go to a place like Wal-Mart to get a starter set," Kitchen said. "But we have a good name-brand set for people to get started with."

The facility includes a 500-foot wide, all-grass driving range which is ideal for fine tuning your game and testing clubs. The store specializes in closeout, discounted items and large volume buys whenever possible.

Maple Hill has everything from golf bags, gloves, pull carts, clothing, head covers and shoes - their specialty.

The store carries over 2,000 pair of shoes - ranging from Nike to Foot Joy.

As for the course, Kitchen says it offers several avenues for having a good time.

"It's executive length, with small, tight greens," he said. "I would say if not the best, one of the best kept courses in western Michigan."

The course is a par-68, 4,500 yards.

July 10, 2002