Soft Startup Plan

Soft startup plan outline
Phase one: Protect and prepare

Timing: Weeks 1-2 after turfing.
Green use: No bowling and no casual walking on the green.
Focus: Watering, rooting, inspections, contractor advice, signs, volunteer rota.
Club activity: Recruit founding members, form WhatsApp group, gather equipment, explain that play will begin gradually.

Phase two: Maintenance readiness
Timing: Weeks 3-4.
Green use: Still no normal play.
Focus: First cut only when turf has rooted, inspect seams and soft patches, agree mowing and watering routine.
Club activity: Off-green induction, rules briefing, beginner sign-up, provisional booking system.

Phase three: Controlled trial play
Timing: Weeks 5-6, only if the greenkeeper approves.
Green use: Short supervised roll-ups only.
Limits: Small numbers, flat shoes only, no matches, no visitors’ day, no competitions.
Focus: Check turf after every session and rotate any trial playing areas.

Phase four: Soft opening
Timing: Weeks 7-8, if trial play causes no damage.
Green use: Limited booked sessions, still supervised.
Club activity: Founding members’ afternoon, beginner tasters, membership drive, simple coaching.
Decision point: At the end of week 8, decide whether to expand regular play or continue restricted use.
Golden rule
Only increase use when the green is coping well. If there are soft spots, lifting seams, heavy rain, scuffing, or visible wear, step back one phase rather than pushing ahead.