Stangler in as golf supervisor
Renovations to Brooktree Golf Course’s clubhouse bar, Tavern Nine, remain underway. The course hopes to have the renovations finished for the beginning of golf season in early spring. Photo courtesy Owatonna Parks, Recreation & Facilities.
Brooktree Golf Course hired its new golf supervisor Kurt Stangler on Feb. 13, bringing a fresh new face to the Steele County golf scene.
According to a press release from the City of Owatonna's Parks, Recreation and Facilities Department, Stangler’s duties will include “managing the operations of the clubhouse and course to position it as a recreational asset with services, events, tournaments, programs and leagues.”
“When I saw this position open up, just knowing how much of a commitment they’ve made to the course and the facilities, it just really jumped out at me. It was an incredible opportunity, and we have some really cool long-range plans in place,” said Stangler.
With over 20 years of experience in the golf industry, Stangler has predominantly worked in the private club sector.
However, in joining Brooktree – a community-owned course – he said that he is excited to work with a team that is more focused on the golf and the experience that comes with the game.
Also falling under his watch will be the renovations to the clubhouse bar, Tavern Nine.
While Stangler is relatively new to the area and said he had not been to the course to play a round before being hired, the facilities caught his eye.
“My whole goal for this first year is to come in and observe. You don’t want to step in and just change everything. I want to see what’s going on first and make changes appropriately. That being said, one of the biggest things that we’re really hoping to accomplish is putting in a driving range or some kind of practice area.”
With the weather warming up and the snow melting, golfers around town will surely be excited to get back out onto the course.
They’re not the only ones ready to step out and see Stangler’s visions come to life.
“We are excited to have Kurt join our team,” said Jenna Tuma, Director of Parks, Recreation and Facilities. “His 20-plus years of golf experience managing full-service golf operations will help Brooktree continue expanding on the ways it serves the community.”