New golf simulator in Holyoke helps players practice to year-round

Posted by author December 12, 2024 Golf

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SPRINGFIELD, MA (WGGB/WSHM) – The Elks Lodge in Holyoke has added a new feature for members and the public to enjoy their time golfing year-round: two new golf simulators.

“Every swing is a mathematical equation. When you hit the ball, it’s going to register on the screen,” said Jay Nomakeo, owner of Western Mass. Golf Simulators.

The simulators use GS Pro technology, which makes it very easy to practice your swing, even during the winter. “You get to play 1000 different courses, including local courses such as the rants,” Nomakeo added.

Nomakeo said that golf simulators are in higher demand than in the past. “Fourteen years ago, I would say 10 percent of people would go out and play simulator golf. Now, it’s about 80 percent,” he explained.

Archie Donoghue, the Elks Lodge exalted ruler, said that the space where the golf simulators are now used to be a racquetball court. “We had a lot of people playing racquetball. That has waned over the years,” Donoghue explained.

It’s now a way for new golfers to perfect their swing. “They don’t want to hold up anyone on the golf course, but here you aren’t holding anyone up, you got the whole hour,” Nomakeo added.

It could also become a new way for the community to socialize. “Just like on the golf course, you can pair up with people and get to know them as you’re playing golf,” Donoghue said.

The golf simulators at the Elks Lodge will be open Tuesday through Sunday and you can book an appointment online