GreatLIFE Community,
6 MONTHS! As we turn the page into the second half of 2025, I’ve been reflecting on some of the moments and stories that have shaped this year so far for my family, friends and the GreatLIFE Community.
It’s been a season full of growth, good reminders, and even a few humbling lessons. Whether it was trying to learn piano with no musical background (spoiler: I’m no Beethoven), singing family karaoke on a cruise ship, watching my daughters fall in love with basketball thanks to a group of inspiring college players, or realizing just how much the right tools—and the right people—can change everything… this year has reminded me to be present, stay curious, and continue leading with purpose.
Through all of it, three themes have surfaced again and again:
Presence. Progress. People.
Not perfection, not performance—but showing up, growing daily, and investing in the lives around us.
GreatLIFE First half RECAP:
Early Golf Season
We experienced record early play, with “bonus golf” starting in February. Our golf team carefully balanced early access with course protection to ensure a full season of enjoyment for members across our courses.
Facility Expansion & Equipment Upgrades
New golf carts at Rocky Run, continued buildout in Harrisburg, and exciting upgrades to the Avera fitness facility—all part of our ongoing commitment to providing value and convenience for our members.
We Became a Team Member-Owned Company
In April, we officially transitioned to a Team Member-Owned Company, securing our long-term ability to stay local, invest in our people, and make decisions that serve each community we’re in. This shift ensures GreatLIFE is built for generations to come.
May Moves Month
We proudly represented South Dakota in the national May Moves Month initiative to promote physical and mental health through movement. Our activity card was a fun, simple way to get moving every day—and it’s been a hit!
Youth Impact through Mentorship & Movement
Our TeamMates Mentoring program continues to grow in Sioux Falls schools. And thanks to our partnership with the Sioux Falls School District, our PLAYEverything program is impacting nearly 900 Title 1 students this summer—with plans to reach 1,000+ by next year.
Family Golf Nights
New this summer: FREE Family Golf Nights! These nights have created meaningful, low-pressure opportunities for families to enjoy the game together. A big thank you to Jason Crisp and the golf team for making this possible!
BOOK CLUB:
For June, we dove into the book The Power of Moments by Dan and Chip Heath who wrote another one of my favorites Upstream! To be honest, I was a little hesitant to read another one of their books as I am such a big fan of their first one but they made it well worth the read! This insightful read explores why certain brief experiences can jolt us, elevate us, and change us—and how we can be intentional about creating more of them. It challenged me to stop waiting for big milestones and instead create meaningful moments for those I lead, live with, and love.
Top Takeaways:
- Moments don’t have to be big, but they must be intentional – The most memorable experiences are often short but powerful. We can craft meaningful moments by being deliberate about how we mark milestones, elevate everyday experiences, and recognize others.
- Peak moments come from elevation, insight, pride, and connection – These four elements are the foundation of unforgettable moments. Whether you’re leading a team, mentoring someone, or spending time with family, moments that incorporate even one of these pillars can be transformative.
- Recognition creates ripple effects – A small note, a personal conversation, or a sincere thank-you can turn an ordinary day into a defining one. We often underestimate the power of simple acts done with purpose.
NEXT MONTH’S BOOK:
The Carpenter by Jon Gordon
POSITIVE THOUGHT:
“People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” – Maya Angelou
Thank you for being part of what makes this GreatLIFE community so powerful. Whether you’ve been with us for years or just joined recently, you are part of a mission that’s bigger than fitness or golf. You’re part of something that’s about changing lives.
Here’s to a strong, impactful second half of 2025!
Your friend,
Nick