Senior citizens 'marshal' importance as seasonal employees

Golf managers plan for the annual return of these retired men and women to fill ranger and starter positions.

(Photo courtesy of the Springfield Recreation Department.)

By Vernon Verstraete

In March, 1980, a gentleman in his late 60s walked into the pro shop at the Wheeling Park District and inquired about available outdoor positions at the golf course. Although he did not have any formal experience for the available starter and ranger positions, the man had played golf for more than 50 years.

The applicant was subsequently interviewed by the director of golf and advised about the required two week on-the-job training program. In addition, it was noted that the $5 per hour wage was significantly less than the $67,000 annual salary the man had been earning in Chicago before his retirement. The new employee agreed to start work upon returning from visiting his daughter in California.

Ten days later the director received a call from the man's daughter stating that her father had died two days after he arrived in California. However, he had told her that his upcoming job at the golf course was something that he had wanted to do for many years, and she thanked the director for giving her father the opportunity to fulfill his dream.

Special retirees

Each spring golf course managers welcome back this army of silver-hair golf course employees throughout the

Illinois Parks and Recreation 15 March/April 1987

northern climates of the United States. Many of these retired men and women return for the same seasonal position which they held for the past 10 or 12 years. When developing budgets for the new year, golf managers plan for their return.

Important employees

Why do many managers give more employment opportunities to senior citizens rather than to high school and college students? Primarily because the golf season usually begins in early spring. Since students are not available for full time until June through August, there is a void in the course positions.

The seniors also add stability to the ranger and starter positions because, as adults, their daily experiences prompt them to extend proper policy and procedures to the golf customer.

Seniors are early risers, and they can handle the 4:30 or 5 a.m. opening hour. In addition, they are looking for a new life style that is different from their previous professional employment. They like the opportunity to meet new people on a daily basis, and they love to be outdoors.

These jobs are also attractive to seniors because of the opportunity to play golf as hours and management permit. Moreover, they are willing to work for hourly wages that range from $4 and higher.

More than 90 percent of a golf manager's staff each year consists of hourly-wage seasonal employees. The more of these people who return each year, the less time management needs to spend on staff training. These staff members are appreciated, and it is important that management encourage them to return next season.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Vernon Verstraete is the superintendent of golf course operations at the Chevy Chase Golf course, which is owned and operated by the Wheeling Park District.

Illinois Parks and Recreation 16 March/April 1987