Fo r e Yo u r I n fo r m at io n
Pa g e 4
FEATURED MEMBER MICHAEL STIELER, CGCS HOST OF THE 2020 S & R TOURNAMENT Mike Stieler, CGCS, left college with golf course architecture ambitions working one year for the firm of Bradford/Benz Golf Course Architects before they closed shop in Fresno (due to the lack of new projects in the early 1990’s). After that, Mike worked in the landscape construction field, learning how his designs would work in the ground before he put them on paper as an architect.. After three years of that, and traveling the country playing competitive fast pitch and softball, the knees finally gave out. However, this is how he fell in love with golf course management and why he decided to become a superintendent. Mike started his superintendent career at Riverside Golf Course in Fresno. He was mowing fairways and playing golf daily as a form of rehabilitation after numerous surgeries required to repair some softball and high school sports injuries. CourseCo, who manages the course, recognized his skills and he was soon promoted to Assistant Superintendent and had the opportunity to put his degree in Landscape Architecture from Cal Poly, SLO to good use. A few years later Mike took a position with Ahwahnee Golf and Country Club in Oakhurst, CA . He remained at Ahwahnee for three years. During this time, he restored and regrew a rundown, depleted facility. Mike was then hired as the GM/Superintendent at Riverbend Golf Club in Madera. A position which he held for over 14 years. During that time he hosted numerous events, such as the Save Mart Shootout. Born and raised in Sonora, CA, Mike wanted to move closer to
his parents. The Spring Creek Golf and Country Club position became available and Mike was able to do just that. That was a little over six years ago. The move allowed Mike and his wife (of nearly 30 years) Heather, to be closer to Mike’s parents…Mikie and Darlene. Mike is now able to help his mom with the care of her dad (Grampie) who has been diagnosed with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP). Mike is presently in the process of a three-year in-house rebuilding project which includes the front 9 greens. Mike became a Certified Golf Course Superintendent nearly 20 years ago and highly advocates its worth to his peers. Not only for career growth, but to support our great association. Mike is also a superior golfer. He has won the GCSAA National Championship a couple of times, as well as countless top 5 finishes. His hobbies are work, golf, and having a few brews with friends and family. Mike and Heather have raised three amazing kids… Craig James, Kelsi Mae, and Michael III. Craig resides in Redding after graduating from Simpson University with a Business degree. Craig is married to his beautiful wife Molly who has recently been promoted to the position of Director of Admissions at the University. Kelsi Mae, resides in Fresno after graduating from Fresno State where she competed on the golf team and did quite well. Kelsi graduated with a Liberal Studies degree and is now in her second year of teaching, while working on her master’s degree. Michael III, is in limbo during these strange times (taking classes
online after taking a semester off from Sonoma State where he is studying Earth Science). Mike and Heather feel incredibly blessed with their beautiful family! We want to THANK Mike and the board of directors at Spring Creek Golf & Country Club for allowing us to hold the 2020 S & R Tournament at their beautiful facility.