If your golf game has gone cold with the weather, you are in luck!
The PEIF opened a golf simulator for use by rental near the beginning of the winter 2015 semester. The golf simulator is an opportunity to not only practice, but also improve any golfer’s game. The simulator is state of the art and includes nine courses and a feature that provides instruction for improvement.
‘Feedback’ was the keyword in what Austin Elsner, a freshman clinical lab science major and member of the NMU golf team, had to say regarding the simulator’s functionality.
“It is nice because not only do you get to practice in the winter, but also because it provides you with feedback that you can use to assist in helping your game as a whole,” Elsner said.
The new simulator is located inside a refurbished racquetball court in the PEIF. The game allows users to have a real-life golf experience that includes driving, chipping and putting the ball at a giant screen. The technology of the simulator consists of motion and impact sensors that transport users into a virtual golfing experience. The sensors register feedback from the users’ actions through its computer programming and also inform users on how to improve their game at the end of each hole.
Katrina Theut, the fitness and informal recreation manager, said she saw how the new simulator benefited both community members and members of the NMU campus.
“The golf simulator is available for anyone to use,” Theut said. “It is a great way for student, faculty, staff and community golfers to be able to practice during the winter season.”
Currently, the PEIF is offering an introductory rental rate of $15 through the month of February. Those interested must reserve a time slot at the PEIF’s front desk. According to Theut, the PEIF welcomes golfers of all skill levels to take the new simulator for a swing.
“The simulator is also user-friendly enough for a beginner golfer to come in and practice-this isn’t just for an elite golfer,” Theut said. “So far we have had a great response from NMU students and the community.”
Matthew Williamson, a sophomore criminal justice major, is not a member of the golf team but frequents the PEIF. He was impressed by the installation of the golf simulator.
“I don’t really golf much, but I walked past it and was amazed,” Williamson said. “It seems like it would be cool just to go and try out.”
The golf simulator course is open Monday through Friday. Users are able to schedule reservations on the hour for an allotted 45 minutes of play. Tee times range from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. The simulator will be available on weekends beginning in March. Weekend time slots available will range from 8 a.m. to noon on Saturdays and 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Sundays. The PEIF accepts walk-ins but encourages those interested to make a reservation by phone, as space is limited.
