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No off season for Glencoe golf pro
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Updated: March 22, 2013 6:46AM
While most folks stare out the window waiting for warmer weather and a chance to hit the links, Matt Radde, head golf professional at the Glencoe Golf Club, is at it all year long. Radde, who grew up in St. Joseph, Mich., mans the greens year round, even if Glencoe turf is tucked under a blanket of snow.
Q. Tell us about your family.
A. I have been married for seven years to my wife, Courtney, who previously worked as a learning behavior specialist at Highcrest Middle School in Wilmette. Following the birth of my oldest daughter Emma, 5, we decided it would be best for Courtney to stay at home with our children. My wife and I were blessed with twin girls, Claire and Jillian, who are now 2 years old. Courtney now works four nights a week tutoring kids ages 10-16 from all areas of the North Shore including Wilmette, Winnetka, Kenilworth and Glenview, as well as the city.
Q. Why is Glencoe a great place to play golf?
A. Glencoe is a great place to play golf because of its unique, old-fashioned style of golf. The putting greens are what set our course apart. I’ve had hundreds if not thousands of compliments each season regarding our greens and the typical comment is ‘Wow, I’m a member at so and so country club and your greens are way better than ours’ The setting is quiet without any houses on the course and the design has remained mostly intact from 1931 when the full 18-hole course opened. The course is tucked away on the end of a residential street and many people don’t even know we’re here until they have a chance to play. Even though you feel like you’re on your own little golf “island” away from work, traffic, and the headaches of the city … you’re only seconds from the Edens Expressway, Lake Cook Road, and Green Bay Road. We’re pretty easy to find but once you’re here you don’t want to leave
Q. Which hole is unique?
A. I think the best, toughest and most picturesque hole on the course is the second hole. This par 5 is the longest hole on the course and now plays 549 yards after a recent tee renovation. Woods border the right hand side of the hole, and it’s pretty common to hear at least one golf ball from each group crackling through the trees … it’s a very intimidating tee shot. The green can be punishing if you’re not below the hole on your approach shot.
Q. What makes your job special?
A. Most people think club professionals play golf all day … I wish! My job is special because I get to be around the game of golf in a natural setting that most people can only stare out the window of their cubicle and wish for. No two days are ever the same in the golf business. My typical day entails running the operations of the course and making sure people enjoy their experience here at the club. One of the most rewarding parts of my job is instructing beginner golfers. Witnessing the sense of accomplishment after a beginner has hit a good shot up in the air is second to none.
Q. What are your unique golf talents?
A. I’ve recorded three hole-in-ones in my life. Most people are pretty lucky to get one!
