Talking with Pinehills Golf Pro John Tuffin
Golf season is in full swing in New England and The Pinehills is home to one of the Top 100 Public Courses in the Nation – according to Golf Magazine and scores of players who have visited the Pinehills Golf courses. With two 18-hole championship courses –one designed by Rees Jones and one by Nicklaus Design, The Pinehills is a true golf paradise. We caught up with Director of Golf, John Tuffin, to find out what makes playing at The Pinehills such a special experience.
Who introduced you to the game of golf?
Along with my brother I was introduced to the game of golf by my father. He was kind enough to arrange for us to take some lessons at a local course and I was instantly hooked on the game.
How did you come to The Pinehills as their Director of Golf?I was working at Stow Acres, another 36 hole facility in Massachusetts, when the job posting came online. Having had the opportunity to play here before the job was posted I sent my resume out that day. I knew what an amazing facility this was and the commitment the owners had to creating the best daily fee golf experience in the country. I was hired in July of 2001 and have been here ever since.
What’s your proudest golf achievement at Pinehills Golf Club?
The fact that we have been honored by The New England Golf Guide as the Only 2 Five Star Public Golf Facility in New England is something I am very proud of. It speaks to the overall level of commitment of all Pinehills Golf Club employees. From the conditioning of the courses to the level of service provided throughout the day to our dining experience with East Bay Grille we strive to provide the best golf experience possible.
What are the differences between the two courses? How do they play differently?Both courses are true championship courses with 4 sets of tees allowing golfers of all abilities the chance to have an enjoyable experience. The Jones course places a greater emphasis on accuracy off the tee while the Nicklaus course is more demanding on the approach shots. Both courses offer dramatic elevation changes and are maintained in superb condition.
What makes Pinehills Golf Club different from other courses in the area?
Our comprehensive facilities and commitment to excellence distinguishes the Pinehills Golf Club experience. We are renowned for the superior practice facilities, wide ranging PGA instructional offerings, 2 championship golf courses, an outstanding food & beverage partner in East Bay Grille and of most importance, phenomenal employees who care about providing the best service possible.
You probably play Pinehills a lot, so what courses are on your bucket list to play?Tops on my bucket list of courses to play would be Augusta National and Cypress Point
Who makes up your dream foursome?
My dream foursome would include my brother Mike, Arnold Palmer & Tom Brady
You do a lot of charity tournaments here. It must be an important part of your mission.Charity golf events are a big part of our operation here and something we are very proud of being involved with. Whatever the worthwhile cause is we try to provide the participants with a memorable day of golf and the hosts with a stress free day when they know every detail of their event will be handled properly.
For more info on Pinehills Golf Club visit pinehillsgolf.com or call 508-209-3000.
