Excessive snow could delay start to golf season at municipal courses

When it was suggested to the City of Kitchener‘s Manager of Sports Development and Golf, Lisa Collins that it may be a bit early for people to be thinking about golf season, she was quick to knock down that assertion.

She told 570’s NewsRadio that in fact, the opposite is likely true.

“Actually, I would challenge you that a lot of people are thinking about golf given our current weather conditions and that recent storm we received.”

Earlier this week, the City of Kitchener opened 2025 membership sales online and at the pro shop at the Doon Valley Golf Course to take membership sales in person.

It turns out Collins was correct and a lot of people are thinking about golf based on the speed at which memberships have flown out the door. She said unless people hurry, the memberships will sell out in the next couple of days, or sooner. But she say’s not all is lost if you miss out.

“If you weren’t able to secure a membership, don’t worry, there’s still great options available through our bundle packs. These bundle packs can be purchased online and they not only provide flexibility in access to the course, but they also offer significant cost savings in terms of our green fees.”

The City of Kitchener operates two public courses: Doon Valley, near the main campus at Conestoga College and Rockway Golf Course in the heart of the city. The two 18-hole course offer something for all skill levels, including beginners.

Collins points out that Kitchener Golf offers lessons for kids and adults through its Golf Academy. They also have a more in-depth option for young players.

“We offer summer camps out of Doon Valley. Registration begins in late March around the same time other City of Kitchener camp programs become available for registration.”

The big question remains, when will the courses open?

“I would say a typical opening date is the middle of April. I think it would safe to expect a slightly later opening this season, but really it’s tough to say.”

Collins said it’s going to take a while for the snow to melt to a point where grounds crews can get out and assess any winter damage and begin preparing the courses for the season.

She is advising players to watch the Kitchener Golf page at kitchener.ca and social media feeds for updates on when the courses are expected to open.