Fieldstone Golf Club Spring Update: Chip Hierlihy Shares Course Conditions and Pro Golf Insights

As one of the premier golf destinations in the country, Fieldstone Golf Club continues to set the standard for upscale public golf—and the 2026 season is shaping up to be another spectacular year. In a recent Lesson on Golf segment, General Manager and PGA Professional Chip Hierlihy joined host Jeff Lesson to share updates on course conditions, early-season operational success, and the fast-evolving professional golf landscape.

An Arthur Hills Masterpiece Ready for the Season

Fieldstone Golf Club operates a spectacular 18-hole Arthur Hills-designed championship course right in the City of Auburn Hills. Following a highly successful winter management strategy, the course is clearing up beautifully for early-season players. The grounds crew's seasonal rollout success includes:

• Early Winter Protection: The course was covered up early to protect the turf from harsh weather.

• Consistent Ground Care: Maintained protective turf strategies throughout the winter months.

• Seamless Spring Uncovering: Achieved an ideal, clean transition to full-play conditions.

Because of Michigan’s temperamental spring weather, early-season course care requires a delicate touch. While local golfers are already out enjoying the pristine fairways, a warm-up in the weather will bring even better conditions to Auburn Hills in the weeks ahead.

Early Season Operational Plans

Rather than rushing operational changes before the turf is fully stabilized, Fieldstone's strategy focuses on balancing player accessibility with tournament-grade maintenance. While unseasonably brisk spring days are keeping the ground crew busy, the facility is proudly offering a versatile, championship-level challenge.

"It's been a great transition. I wish the weather would turn a little warmer, it would be nice—it would be nice better golf weather, but yeah, we came through the winter really well,"

Hierlihy noted regarding the course's robust health coming out of hibernation.

"You can book tee times at Fieldstone 30 days in advance. The simplest way to do that is to just book them at fieldstonegolfclub.com."

The club ensures that multiple sets of tees remain perfectly configured, allowing visiting players to select a layout that matches their unique game.

A Nationally Recognized Pro Golf Shakedown

Fieldstone Golf Club’s leadership keeps a close eye on major shifts well beyond the Midwest. As a PGA Professional, Hierlihy shared his expert perspective on the breaking news surrounding the professional golf world—specifically the reports that the Public Investment Fund (PIF) may withdraw its financial backing from the LIV Tour after this year.

This type of high-profile industry disruption has major implications for the game, sparking serious discussions among club professionals and fans alike about the future structure of professional tours.

Built on Merit, Not Just Model

While the architectural pedigree of Fieldstone is a massive draw, Hierlihy emphasized that a return to a unified competitive landscape would be a net positive for golf fans globally:

• A welcome return to traditional, merit-based competitive structures

• The world's absolute best players regularly squaring off on the exact same stage

• Increased prestige and excitement surrounding signature events on the PGA Tour

For local golfers and tournament organizers, a stabilized professional game only serves to elevate the energy and enthusiasm around neighborhood links and community outings.

Planning Your Next Outing

Golfers can explore tee times, group availability, and overall course scheduling directly through Fieldstone's official site. Guest coordination teams are also available to assist with custom booking up to a full month out.

With spring leagues in full swing and weekend grids filling up fast due to the course's top-tier reputation, booking 30 days in advance is highly recommended for groups looking to secure the best morning slots.

About Lesson on Golf

Lesson on Golf is hosted by Jeff Lesson and produced by Make The Turn, the team behind Metro Detroit Golfers—one of the largest golf communities in Michigan.

The show highlights courses, destinations, and golf experiences across the state. 

👉 Explore more episodes on the Metro Detroit Golfers YouTube channel.