En-Joie Opens; Rebounds from the floods

6/20/2012 (Updated 11:15:59 PM)

(Source: Travis Eldridge)

ENDICOTT -- Following the floods, the staff at the En-Joie Golf Course faced a monstrous challenge.  Nine and a half months ago mud and soot covered nearly all of the more than 7,000 yard course.

"There were times in October in the wee hours of the night where youd wonder if wed ever get to where we are," said head pro Michael Deuel.  "I'm surprised we're in the condition we are today, I mean the golf course is absolutely superb."

Not without hours and hours of dedication to refurbish the flood ravaged course.  Dedication that Course Superintendent Rocco Greco was still showing on opening day Wednesday.  He and his staff were busy hand-watering every green in the scorching heat.  It's that attention to detail that has brought the course back.

"We had some down days, but for the most part once we got in a routine and had a plan, things just fell together," Greco said.

There may have been doubts before, but golfers Wednesday said the course may be tougher than it has ever been.

"I think it's better now, it really looks good," said Bernie Becker, who has been a member for more than 40 years. "The greens look good, the tees look good, the fairways are great, the rough is a little high, but other than that the course is in beautiful shape."

Making En-Joie feel like home again to members, regulars and new golfers alike.

"The greens are running true," said Bill Riddleberger. "It's like hitting off your living room carpet."

It may have been nearly two months later than usual, but En-Joie is up and running again.