A Familiar Fairway Beckons: Chris Larson Returns to His Roots!
It's a heartwarming full-circle moment in the golf world as Chris Larson, a name synonymous with local golf, is making a significant career move. After a tenure at Osgood Golf Course, Larson is trading his PGA head professional hat for a broader leadership role as the newly created General Manager at Moorhead Country Club (MCC). This isn't just a job change; it's a homecoming, as Larson's journey in golf began right there, working in the bag room at MCC during his high school days.
Why the Shift? A Landscape in Flux.
Larson's departure from Osgood wasn't a sudden whim. He explained that the role of PGA head professional had evolved, shifting more towards golf management. "One door closing, one door opening," he mused. This evolution, coupled with a desire for a new challenge and a changing dynamic at Osgood from the Fargo Park District's perspective, prompted the move. "The job was changing and it wasn’t exactly aligned, let’s put it that way," he candidly shared.
MCC's Ascent and a Vision for the Future.
Meanwhile, Moorhead Country Club is experiencing a remarkable resurgence. What was once a club with a moderate membership has blossomed into an organization with a waiting list and a cap of 430 members. This impressive growth is a testament to the club's proactive approach, and Larson's new, all-encompassing General Manager role is designed to steer this momentum. His responsibilities will be broad, encompassing golf operations, strategic development, and a significant master plan for the club. This plan includes exciting upgrades like a new irrigation system and renovations to the course.
A Leader for Evolving Times.
This new position was created by the MCC Board of Directors, recognizing the need for dedicated leadership. "The Board has been pretty proactive in getting the club to where it needs to be," Larson stated. He admits it's a transition to see himself in a GM role after dedicating so long to being a golf professional, but he understands the necessity. "They think they really need a leader in that position to guide them through a lot of things that are going to be going on."
A Deeply Rooted History.
Larson's connection to MCC runs deep. Before his time at Osgood, which began in 2021, he spent years at Moorhead Country Club. He started in the bag room as a teen, worked with the maintenance staff in college, and then served as an assistant teaching professional for nine years before becoming head pro for five years. This intimate knowledge of the club's history and operations will undoubtedly be an asset.
Balancing Expertise: Golf Meets Management.
When discussing the role with the board, Larson emphasized their desire for a GM who "leans to golf." This is particularly comforting for him, as MCC boasts a robust food and beverage department, an area outside his direct professional background. "They wanted to reassure me that we see a lot of golf things on the horizon, a lot of things we can expand and get better at," he shared. The club seeks someone with vision and a strong voice to guide its future. "This has always been home. It’s like a comfy pair of shoes," Larson affectionately described his return.
A Trend Among Local Golf Veterans.
Larson, at 44 years old, is not alone in this career evolution. He's the second prominent local golf professional to embrace a General Manager position at a private club. Mark Johnson, a familiar face from his early days at Suites Shots, recently took on a similar role at Oxbow Country Club. Larson even tapped into Johnson's experience before accepting the MCC offer, highlighting the supportive network within the local golf community.
The Power of Partnership.
This move also means a reunion with MCC head pro Chris Howell. Howell was an assistant under Larson at MCC before stepping into the head pro role when Larson moved to Osgood. "He and I just work together so well," Larson beamed. "We’re great friends, great colleagues. We bounce a lot of ideas off of one another... and it’s a great partnership."
What's Next for Osgood?
The Fargo Park District has confirmed they are actively seeking a new Golf Manager for Osgood. This role is crucial for overseeing daily golf operations, leading staff, managing tournaments, providing instruction, and ensuring an excellent guest experience.
A Thought-Provoking Question:
As Chris Larson embarks on this new chapter, it raises an interesting point: Is the traditional PGA head professional role becoming obsolete, or is it simply evolving into a broader management position? What are your thoughts on this shift in the golf industry? Do you believe a strong golf background is essential for a General Manager at a country club, even with robust other departments? Share your opinions in the comments below – we'd love to hear your perspective!
