Jones named as new Elizabethton Golf Course Pro

NOVEMBER 27. 2023 - After an extensive search and interview process, the City of Elizabethton has selected William “Euggie” Jones as the course's new Golf Pro.
 
Jones is a native of Kingsport having graduated from Sullivan South High School and Walters State Community College with a degree in Turf & Golf Course Management.
 
His extensive work history led to his selection for his new position with the City and includes the following:
  • Head professional at The Crossings from 1995 to 1998.
  • General Manager at The Crossings from 1998 to 2001.
  • Director of Instruction at Ridgefield Country Club from 2002 to 2003.
  • Head professional at Glenrochie Country Club in Abingdon from 2003 to 2009.
  • Dick's Sporting Good's Golf Pro over merchandising from 2009 to 2014.
  • Returned to Glenrochie Country Club from 2015 to 2023.
 
When asked why he decided to throw his hat into the selection process for Elizabethton's Golf Pro position, he stated that it was a great opportunity to work with a golf course with a rich tradition.
 
"The golf course has a rich tradition in its course and the community," said Jones. "I want to work to bring the course back to where it was years ago and begin installing programs to make it fun for members and guests once again. I want to make Elizabethton Golf Course a place where everyone can come out and have a great time by using things that I have used in my career that have been successful."
 
He went on to mention the crew that has been put into place to aid in helping to restore the golf course back to its rich tradition.
 
"We have a great golf superintendent and crew that have already been working hard," said Jones. "We will be sitting down to establish a timeline to address the issues that we have before getting into the programs and restoring play."
 
Jones added that the cold winter of 2022 didn't aid in helping Elizabethton or any course with its Bermuda growth and it will be at least May or June of 2024 to see how this winter impacts the grass growth. However, that didn't stop Jones from providing a message to former and current members of the course.
 
"Give us a chance after working on the course and see what we have to offer," Jones said. "We will just need a little time and a chance to get the course back in order. Players will notice several immediate changes but the big change will come when the Bermuda grass starts growing and then see how it will be mowed. “We are doing bunker work and aerification right now. I am looking forward to putting programs in for Juniors and Seniors, as well as women and couples. I really want to see a good Junior program developed."
 
Jones offered one a two-word request to those who have been use to the tradition offered at Elizabethton Golf Course and that was "Be patient".
 
“My family and I are very excited to be a part of Elizabethton. Myself and my team will be eager and committed to restoring the golf course and making it the best its ever been. Our goal is to work hard both on the course and in the club house making Elizabethton a very fun and enjoyable place to play. Elizabethton’s pro shop staff will be committed to providing outstanding customer service by always making everyone feel welcome and excited to return to play.