McConnell Golf takes proactive measures for readiness in case of emergency.
“No one wants to be a hero” is a commonly shared sentiment from those whom have been unexpectedly called into extraordinary circumstances. In close-knit club environments, it’s certainly true that no one wants to visualize a life-threatening event, but that’s precisely what McConnell Golf has challenged its staff to do.
Now in its second year, a partnership with ClubSafe is a means to continually improve emergency response protocol and the staff’s ability to handle distress. On-site safety evaluations are performed at each club, site-specific response plans are created and practiced with drills, and extensive staff training takes place including CPR/AED certification.
While emergency plans were established before ClubSafe’s involvement, auditing them was a priority for Christian Anastasiadis, McConnell Golf chief operating officer.
“Our clubs are a place for members to relax, unwind, and have fun,” he says. “We want to prevent any unsureness about safety anywhere on our properties.”
Last April during the North Carolina High School Invitational at Treyburn Country Club, the staff’s training was employed to respond to a medical emergency.
“One of the officials had a cardiac emergency on the course,” says Tag Wylie, director of golf. “I was inside, but the team knew exactly what to do. We kept the gentlemen cool and calm, though he was in great pain, as we waited for help to arrive. Once on site, staff members guided paramedics directly to him. Speed is everything in such situations and ClubSafe helped us act quickly and with assurance.” Wylie adds that the official returned to the club this year and has fully recovered.
“ClubSafe bestows an invaluable confidence to ‘what if’ scenarios,” says Anastasiadis. “The pride we take in our facilities and staff goes beyond daily club operations. When every second counts, we want members and guests to know that they can count on us.”