5 Things You Need to Know: The Hackler Course at Coastal Carolina

The General James Hackler Course at Coastal Carolina underwent more change in 2011 than any other Myrtle Beach golf course, and players are the unquestioned beneficiary.

It was time for the 43-year-old layout, which officially changes its name from Quail Creek on November 11, to get a makeover and the changes were more than cosmetic. If you haven’t been to the course since it’s October 1 reopening , be prepared for a new experience.

With that in mind, here are five things you need to know about the course before teeing it up.

What’s Different?: Much more than the name has changed at the Hackler Course. MiniVerde grass is the new putting surface and all 18 greens were reshaped, most now include more undulation. Several greens were moved, including No. 2 and No. 18, and more than 50 bunkers were removed. The routing is largely the same but it is in many ways a new layout.

What’s in a Name?: The Hackler Course was renamed in honor of former Air Force General James Hackler, a World War II fighter pilot. Hackler was a giant in the Myrtle Beach golf industry – the golf package was his brainchild – and he worked tirelessly to improve the community and Coastal Carolina.

Energy in the Clubhouse: The Hackler Course is differentiated from its peers along the Grand Strand in two ways: it’s owned by Coastal Carolina and is staffed by the university’s Professional Golf Management students. With the exception of head pro Chuck Johns, nearly everyone involved with golf operations is an aspiring PGA pro. That kind of motivation brings vibrancy to the course.

It’s Rough Out There: The Hackler Course removed a host of fairway bunkers but the course isn’t defenseless. Players will notice that the rough on the Hackler Course is heavier than it was when the name Quail Creek adorned the sign. It’s not U.S. Open-type rough, but it does incentivize players to hit the fairway.

Familiar Face: The man who oversaw the work at Quail Creek is a familiar name to folks who enjoy a Myrtle Beach golf vacation. Craig Schreiner, who co-designed the Members Club at Grande Dunes with Nick Price, renovated Pine Lakes, and supervised an overhaul on the Fox and Otter nines at River Oaks, spearheaded the effort at the Hackler Course. For Schreiner and Myrtle Beach golf fans it’s another job well done.