July 7, 2026
Despite the weather creating a little slower start to the golf season, last season’s robust rounds have returned at GreatLIFE Golf & Fitness.
“We saw strong participation last year, and we’re seeing that interest sustained,” said Jason Crisp, director of golf operations. “The courses greened up quicker than we expected, and they’re in really nice condition. Golfers are getting out, and the game is in a great spot.”
The GreatLIFE team “is doing an outstanding job, and a big difference this year is attention to the little things,” he added. “We’ve received great feedback on course conditions and the overall experience this season.”
While the demand is solid, golfers also are finding that with GreatLIFE’s unlimited model and access to multiple courses, they still can golf when and how often works for them.
“You don’t have to play a traditional nine- or 18-hole round,” Crisp said. “Come out and play four or five holes, and sneak it in before dark, or come before work. We’re seeing a lot of people do that, which is great, as well as tons of youth and young adults.”
The GreatLIFE Junior Tour drew 150 participants “and is doing really well,” he continued. “Both our camps for kids and the tour are full.”
New this season
New additions this year include more programs and events, both through the courses themselves as well as the GreatLIFE Golf Academy, under the leadership of Matt Drake and teaching professional Chris Gilman, who recently made it to the final round of the U.S. Open qualifier.
“The Academy is open to anybody and everybody regardless of age or ability, and you don’t have to be a GreatLIFE member to participate in its programs,” Crisp said. “Matt has built something for all, making sure it’s fun and that people enjoy their time and our facilities and then catch the bug and turn into regular golfers.”
For full details on the GreatLIFE Golf Academy, visit here.
On the courses themselves, hole No. 3 has reopened for play at Willow Run with a new design and new sod.
“It got opened sooner than we thought, so no more construction there,” Crisp said.
All courses have new and upgraded golf cart fleets this year, and next up are improvements at Central Valley to cart paths and irrigation-related upgrades.
“I’m excited to see we continue to invest in our facilities as well as our teams,” Crisp said. “We’re continuing to grow our team to provide the best experience, while our courses continue to get improved, which is really nice to see.”
Beat the crowds
Golfers also increasingly are discovering courses in the broader Sioux Falls metro area, with both Central Valley in Hartford and Rocky Run in Dell Rapids setting records.
“Those courses are in great shape, and the experience they’re providing is awesome,” Crisp said. “So when people are visiting, they’re finding the facilities are good and it’s a welcoming place, and they’re coming back.”
Golf is popular, so “we encourage members to book preferred tee times up to a week in advance,” he continued.
“If plans change, just give us a call. The most popular morning tee times tend to fill first, but booking ahead makes it easy to secure the time you want. And if you’re looking to try something different, our affiliate courses are always another great option.”
Those who plan ahead also can enjoy a Family Golf Night experience on select courses.
“We’ll close down nine holes, and you have to sign up to bring your family,” Crisp said. “If you want to play, great, or if you want to just walk the course and drive a cart and take family photos, that’s your time as a member.”
The GreatLIFE Golf Academy also offers family nights with instructors “who will help you get used to the game, work on fundamentals and offer family clinics,” he added.
On family nights, the holes close for two to three hours on select Sundays during the summer, often including food and beverage specials. It’s typically limited to between five and 10 families at a time or 30 to 40 people.
“We’re welcoming to all golfers and are here to help,” Crisp said. “It’s more about our mission, which is enjoying each other’s company, creating relationships and spending time together.”
Learn more about family nights here.
While the game enjoyed a pandemic-driven boom, it also has staying power, he added.
“We’re seeing a trend where people do want to get outside. Kids want to ‘touch grass’ as they say, and it’s not just us. Across the country, tee sheets are full. I think it’s that time outside with family and friends, plus a release from daily stress and you’re not locked into a screen,” Crisp said.
“It’s fun to be out challenging yourself and creating relationships. I hope it continues until after I’m long gone.”