In August I may have the chance to play Cowboys Golf Club around Dallas. One friend has given it a strong recommendation. I'm a little thrown off... it's supposed to be the world's first (possibly last?) NFL-themed golf course.
What does that mean?
* Instead of a front 9 and back 9, the sides are 11 holes each and called "offense" and "defense". (Presumably the other will be "special teams" when the third side is complete.)
* The shortest holes vary between 175 and 200, the approximate weight of the smallest players. Most are in either the 225 to 275 or 300 to 330 ranges. One, however, is called "Nate Newton" and stretches to a whopping 400.
* Instead of being numbered 1 through 18, the holes are anywhere from 1 to 99 and don't fall in sequential order. For example, the 81st is on the offense side and checks in at 202 - a typical weight for a speedy receiver.
* No Ranger or "Players Assistant" here. The guy is called "Coach" and he does three things - yell, cuss, and yell cuss words if you don't keep pace.
* The assistant in the shop wears a zebra shirt should he be consulted for any rulings. If it involves stakes for either hazards or O.B., he refers it to another referee, this one with a different color hat, called the Line Judge.
* Players often use steroids, which isn't a problem. However, you'll be booted - not to return for a few holes - if you're caught. Second time offenders can't play another round for a while.
* Instead of choosing between different sets of tees, you can alter the character of the course by whether you play on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday. Unlike the NBA, you can't play on Sundays unless you've already played Saturdays.
* Any time a hole is won in Match Play, the golfer must put his ball on a tee and kick it at least 25 yards straight forward.
Seriously, I'm looking forward to seeing this place. I remember rumors about a "Dallas Stars Club" in the same area. Don't know if it ever came into existence.