In this Episode of Sticks Together, we start by talking about a moment many couples experience in golf: when one partner joins the other's regular group. Stacey shares what it felt like to play with Slade's longtime friends—both single-digit handicaps—highlighting the nerves, the intimidation, and ultimately, the joy of stepping into a higher-level golf environment with confidence.
We explore how golf is a game built for mixed skill levels. That realization led us to talk about how far each of us hits our driver and how it should influence where we tee off from. The Longleaf Tee System enters the conversation here—a USGA-backed system that uses TrackMan data to match driver and 7-iron distances with the ideal course length. We discuss how this system can make the game more enjoyable, especially for those who may feel stuck on tees that don’t suit their ability. At our home club, we’ve implemented something similar called the Wildcat tees, and while not without flaws, the idea is solid: make golf more accessible and fun by playing from the right place.
But there’s more to it than yardages. Stacey reflects on how ego and old assumptions—like calling the forward tees "ladies tees"—need to be set aside. We also critique how some resources frame the pace of play issue, particularly when they target women and juniors unfairly. (Stacey has big feelings about this.) Personal experiences at tournaments illustrate how slow play is not about gender, it’s about behavior.
We round out the episode with a travel story: our trip to the Boulders Resort in Arizona. Slade planned the entire getaway following a work event, and it turned into a memorable golf vacation. The course itself—set in a desert landscape filled with massive boulders, cacti, and unexpected wildlife—offered both fun and challenge. Stacey played some of her best golf there, shooting an 88 and winning their match play on day one. We also enjoyed connecting with two different couples during our rounds—Dom and JC from New Jersey, and Lincoln and Angie from Michigan. The experience reminded us how couples golf isn’t just about who you play with—it’s about being open to the game’s social side, the shared experience, and the lifelong learning that golf offers.
We close with a look ahead to more travel, more episodes, and possibly even a group podcast with friends (just don't tell them yet).
Links:
Longleaf Tee System: https://longleafteesystem.com
Boulders Resort: https://www.theboulders.com