The DROP Podcast

What if getting on the course in New Jersey required a license? This week on The DROP Podcast, we explore Golf Platzreife, Germany’s unique certification that proves a golfer is truly course-ready. It’s not just about skill - it’s about etiquette, pace, and responsibility. As public golf in NJ gets busier and more competitive, we ask: could a system like this improve the game for everyone? Whether you're a seasoned player or weekend warrior, this is a conversation that hits close to home.We also check in on the U.S. Mid-Amateur, where NJ standouts like Troy Vannucci, Jerry Wall, and Brian Hart are in the field, along with MGA stars Stewart Hagestad and Christian Cavaliere. Then it’s a preview of the 98th NJPGA Championship at Knickerbocker CC (Sept 16–18), where the Top 11 pros will qualify for the 2026 PGA Professional Championship at Bandon Dunes. On the pro scene, we recap the Procure Championship, review the PGA Tour Fall Season, and break down Korn Ferry Playoffs action, with Ryan and James competing in the Nationwide Children’s Hospital Championship. Oh, and yes - Tiger Woods was up at Liberty National.👉 Follow The DROP for your weekly fix of Golfing in the Garden State

This week on The DROP Podcast, we close out 2025 with a special final episode and Ryan’s final appearance on the show. To send it off the right way, we run through Ryan’s Top 3’s across the moments that defined the podcast: favorite courses played (public and private), favorite guests, unforgettable shots, and the memories that made this run special. It’s a reflective, fun, and honest look back at the golf, travel, conversations, and experiences that shaped The DROP and Golfing in the Garden State.In Fast Facts, we celebrate Tiger Woods turning 50 on December 30th by breaking down our Top 3 Tiger shots of All-Time, and we close with a recap of Chris Gotterup competing for Atlanta Drive GC in the opening TGL event. It’s the end of a chapter, the close of a big year, and one last ride with Ryan - don’t miss this one.Follow The DROP for your weekly fix of Golfing in the Garden State.

This episode of The DROP Podcast marks a meaningful moment in the journey of Golfing in the Garden State. Ryan and Mike share an honest conversation about a change within the podcast - not driven by conflict or hostility, but by the reality that not all partnerships last forever. With appreciation for the time, effort, and memories built together, the guys reflect on what it takes to create something consistently, and why mutual respect matters more than anything.The episode also rewinds the golf season with a full GHIN handicap recap, breaking down rounds played, courses checked off, average scores, and personal highs and lows from a year spent golfing in New Jersey.Quick hitters close things out, including:• Shane Lowry’s Hole-in-One trivia• PNC Championship results and a look at the PGA Tour calendarAn honest episode about golf, growth, and the friendships built along the way - all through the lens of Golfing in the Garden State.

This week on The DROP Podcast, we break down the best gifts for golfers just in time for the holidays, delivering the ultimate 2025 golf gift guide for every budget. From our Top 5 Stocking Stuffers to Top 4 Big-Item Gifts and Top 3 Outside-the-Box picks, we cover everything golfers actually want - gear, accessories, experiences, and creative ideas that won’t collect dust in the garage. Whether you’re shopping for a scratch player, a weekend warrior, or someone just getting into the game, this episode takes the guesswork out of gifting and helps you score big this Christmas.To close things out, we hit a fast-paced round of Quick Hitters, including a Barstool Fore Play reel highlighting New Jersey as the state with the highest percentage of private golf courses in the country - is that good or bad? We break it all down. Then it’s on to Fast Facts, where we shout out the last-minute supporters of the DROP store - expedited shipping is still available to guarantee Christmas delivery. We also recap the Grant Thornton Invitational, where Chris Gotterup and Jennifer Kupcho finished T2 in the unique mixed-team format, and wrap up with a PGA Tour Q-School Final Stage recap, including John Pak securing Korn Ferry Tour status for 2026. Follow The DROP for your weekly fix of Golfing in the Garden State.

This week on The DROP Podcast, we unveil our highly anticipated Top 10 Private Courses Played in New Jersey for 2025, a full breakdown of Ryan’s list, Mike’s list, and the stories behind the rounds that made each track stand out. From elite layouts to exclusive experiences and unforgettable member-for-a-day moments, we dive into what makes these private clubs the best we’ve played this year. Expect honest reactions, course-by-course analysis, surprises, disagreements, and plenty of Garden State golf flavor as we deliver the definitive ranking for anyone curious about where New Jersey’s premier private golf truly shines in 2025.To close the episode, we hit a fresh round of Quick Hitters, including Tiger Woods’ press conference and a look at the Hero World Challenge - Tiger’s event - where Chris Gotterup was in the field. Then we roll into Fast Facts, highlighting the last chance to guarantee Christmas delivery for DROP orders (place yours before December 11). We also recap PGA Tour Q-School’s Second Stage: Ryan McCormick advancing with a T12 finish, Ethan Ng moving on, and the tough DNQs for David Pastore, Jack Simon, Melan Dhaubhadel, and the crazy story surrounding James Nicholas’ Round 4 fiasco. Final Stage begins December 11-14 as the chase for PGA Tour cards continues.

This week on The DROP Podcast, we dive into one of our most anticipated conversations of the year: our Top 10 Public Courses Played in New Jersey for 2025. Ryan brings his personal rankings, Mike brings his own, and together we break down the Garden State’s best public tracks based on layout, conditioning, value, and overall “must-play” energy. From hidden gems to established favorites, we reveal what surprised us, what lived up to the hype, and which courses absolutely belong on your 2025 tee sheet. Whether you’re a weekend warrior, a public-track loyalist, or a golfer searching for your next challenge, this episode maps out the definitive New Jersey golf lineup heading into the new year.To close the show, we roll through a fresh batch of quick hitters, including a recap of The Skins Game and a new round of Fast Facts, featuring our Black Friday and Cyber Monday Shop the DROP deals and a big thank-you to everyone supporting the podcast this season. We also check in on PGA Tour Q-School as the Second Stage begins December 2nd with Ryan McCormick, David Pastore, Jack Simon, Ethan Ng, and Melan Dhaubhadel all competing to advance toward the Final Stage. Tune in for rankings, reactions, and the ultimate guide to Golfing in the Garden State.Follow The DROP for your weekly fix of Golfing in the Garden State.

Winter is officially closing in on the Garden State, which means it’s prime time to lock in your next golf escape and The DROP Podcast has your winter golf trip strategy covered. This episode breaks down why planning early pays off for Jersey golfers chasing warm-weather fairways. From no-budget bucket-list adventures to value-packed destinations, we dive into the top golf travel hotspots: Myrtle Beach, Streamsong, Pinehurst, Sand Valley, Pebble Beach, Bandon Dunes, Scottsdale, and Big Cedar Lodge. Whether you’re a snowbird heading south or simply trying to ditch frost delays, we map out the courses, logistics, and insider picks you need to book the perfect winter golf getaway.We close with a rapid-fire roundup of the latest in golf and Garden State storylines - Mike’s Philly Marathon Weekend recap, a look at the RSM Classic featuring John Pak’s impressive T7 finish, and congratulations to Max Greyserman for securing a spot inside AON’s Next 10. Plus, we preview everything you need to know about PGA Tour Q-School as the second stage begins December 2-5 and final stage runs December 11-14. Follow The DROP for your weekly fix of Golfing in the Garden State and stay dialed all winter long.

A huge thank you to Mirza and the Dormie Network team for hosting at Hidden Creek Golf Club - a day that perfectly captured the soul of South Jersey golf. Hidden in Egg Harbor Township just minutes from Atlantic City, this Coore & Crenshaw masterpiece stretches across 750 acres of pure Pine Barrens terrain, offering one of the most immersive walking experiences in New Jersey golf. Since joining the Dormie Network in 2019, Hidden Creek has risen among the state’s best private courses, celebrated for its minimalist design, strategic width, and peaceful atmosphere. From its iconic “Where’s the Creek?” lore to unforgettable holes like 9, 11, and 15, this episode breaks down exactly why Hidden Creek stands tall as a must-experience gem for anyone passionate about NJ golf.We then shift from course architecture to tour action, recapping the Butterfield Bermuda Championship and spotlighting John Pak’s T46 finish. With the RSM Classic on deck - Pak’s final start of the season - the pressure is on before his upcoming PGA TOUR Q-School run. Add in a shoutout to Brian Mackey as he steps into a new career chapter, and this week delivers a full slate of Garden State-driven storylines, momentum, and must-follow golf.Follow The DROP for your weekly fix of Golfing in the Garden State and discover the New Jersey courses, players, and moments shaping the game right now.

Trump National Bedminster’s Old Course leads the show this week as Ryan breaks down his full round - including what it’s like walking into a mansion-style clubhouse that feels more presidential estate than golf facility, easily one of the most over-the-top clubhouses in the country. On the course, he goes deep on the famous closing stretch: the demanding Par 5, 15th with its deceptive fairway width, tight layup window, and massive green that punishes anything missed right .. followed by the signature Par 3, 16th, a mid-iron over water directly beneath the clubhouse balcony, bigger green than it looks, subtle right-to-left tilt, and a shot that decides rounds instantly. If you’ve ever wanted the real inside look at Bedminster - not headlines, the golf - this is the one to tap play on.The rest of the episode moves fast: our brand-new website officially launches today (www.GolfingInTheGardenState.com), Mike heads to Disney’s Magnolia Course this Friday followed by a sit-down with their PR & Marketing team, plus quick hitters from around the pro golf world - Worldwide Technology Championship, Max and John in the field, PGA Tour Q-School stage dates, and DP World Tour qualifying updates on David Pastore and Will Celiberti. Big week. Bigger episodes coming.If you’re new here, tap “Follow” so you don’t miss the next drop - every Tuesday and Thursday.

This week on The DROP, we uncover the resurgence of Knickerbocker Country Club - a standout in New Jersey’s private golf scene and one of North Jersey’s most historic and underrated clubs. Originally designed in 1914 by Donald Ross, with a major architectural imprint from Herbert Strong, Knickerbocker blends Golden Age strategy with modern edge. Now under the vision of Jaeger Kovich of Proper Golf and Superintendent Kyle Hillegass, the course is undergoing a thoughtful transformation - restoring sightlines, removing trees, and showcasing one of the most dynamic sets of greens in the Garden State.To close out the episode, we run through this week’s Quick Hitters - including John Pak missing the cut at the Bank of Utah Championship, and results from PGA Tour Q-School First Stage. Dawson Jones came up short, while Melan Dhaubhadel, Ethan Ng, and Peicheng Chen all advanced to Second Stage. We also spotlight the Senior PPC in Florida, where Brian Varsay and Frank Esposito made the final cut, with Frank now eyeing a spot in the Senior PGA Championship. Plus, Ryan tees it up this week at Trump Bedminster - Old Course, with a full recap coming soon.Follow The DROP for your weekly fix of Golfing in the Garden State.

This week’s DROP takes you behind the gates at Hackensack Golf Club - a private, Charles Banks-designed gem tucked into Bergen County that blends Golden Age architecture with modern championship teeth. We break down the course and explore Banks’ bold use of classic templates like the Redan, Short, Biarritz, Punchbowl, and even the rare Principal’s Nose. With steep-faced bunkers, massive green contours, and a routing that rewards shot-making and course knowledge, Hackensack delivers one of the most thoughtful and strategic tests in the Garden State.To close out the episode, we run through this week’s Quick Hitters, including which New Jersey courses made the original America’s 200 Toughest list, Reed Greyserman’s medalist win at St. Andrews, and a full Korn Ferry Tour earnings breakdown from James Nicholas - who dropped a video highlighting his total season earnings and expenses from the year. We spotlight rising pros in action, including Dawson Jones, who begins his First Stage of PGA Tour Q-School this week. David Pastore earned Co-Medalist honors at Galloping Hill to advance, with Jack Simon also moving on from the same site, while Colin Summers unfortunately came up just short. Plus, John Pak is in the field at the Bank of Utah Championship.Follow The DROP for your weekly fix of Golfing in the Garden State.

This week’s DROP takes you inside our unforgettable day at Metedeconk National Golf Club, thanks to Director of Golf Brent Studer, who opened the gates for us to experience one of the most exclusive and demanding layouts in New Jersey. From the world-class practice facility to a full loop on the Tournament Course, we saw firsthand why this Robert Trent Jones Sr. design is considered a true Garden State test. With a slope rating of 153, water in play on seven holes, and perfectly framed tee shots, Metedeconk is as strategic as it is stunning. We break down our favorite holes, course conditions, and what makes this track one of the toughest in the state.From there, we dive into the hardest courses in New Jersey, using GHIN ratings and slope indexes to shape the convo, with a big shout to the MGA for their featured article on us. On the pro scene, Max finishes solo 2nd at the Baycurrent Classic in Japan, going shot-for-shot with Xander down the stretch. Chris lands at T40, and on the Korn Ferry Tour, James wraps up the Finals with eyes on what’s next. Whether you're grinding local muni tracks or chasing the dream, this episode brings you stories, strategy, and that signature New Jersey golf energy.Follow The DROP for your weekly fix of Golfing in the Garden State.

Four years in, and we’re just getting started. The DROP Podcast kicks off Year 4 with big momentum and even bigger swings. With a growing community behind us and new support from Thrive, Sugarloaf Social Club, and the long-awaited Jersey Mike’s, we’re taking “Golfing in the Garden State” to the next level. We also reveal our brand-new YouTube video format designed for deeper dives and sharper storytelling.This week’s rounds were nothing short of legendary. Mike takes on the iconic Merion Golf Club (East Course), breaking down one of the most storied tracks in America, while the crew links up with Zach from The Makeshift Project for an unreal day at Pine Barrens Golf Club - a course in absolute peak shape, giving off major Pine Valley-Lite vibes. Big thanks to LAB Golf for sending over a new wand that’s already changing the game.Hit play and ride with us into Year 4 - your weekly tee time for everything Golfing in the Garden State.

156 weeks. 156 episodes. Zero misses. That’s the streak we’ve proudly built at The DROP Podcast: Golfing in the Garden State. Through vacations, sickness, personal commitments, and everyday life - we’ve never skipped a week since launch. That consistency isn't just rare in podcasting. It’s a reflection of how much we care about this show, this game, and you, the listener. Whether you’ve been with us from episode one or just hit play for the first time, this milestone is a celebration of showing up - every single week - for the game we love.And this week, we’re putting the heat on Keegan Bradley and the U.S. Ryder Cup team. Did Keegan fail the squad? Is the blame on one man, or are we looking at a system problem? We break down the shaky team chemistry, questionable captain’s calls, and whether a fan-fueled frenzy became a full-on distraction. Was the course too easy? Did the pressure of being the “gritty guy” backfire? We’re asking the tough questions - because the stars and stripes should have shown up stronger. Let’s get into it. 🇺🇸Follow The DROP for your weekly fix of Golfing in the Garden State.

We spent the day playing one of the most iconic tracks in the Garden State - Baltusrol Golf Club’s Lower Course - and it did not disappoint. From the architectural evolution of the par-3 4th - once reshaped by Robert Trent Jones and now restored by Gil Hanse - to the renewed greens and bunkers throughout, Baltusrol’s Lower Course is a masterclass in design and legacy. We break it all down, then shift gears into Ryder Cup 2025 talk: team pairings we’re dying to see, bold predictions, and how the competition stacks up heading into golf’s biggest international stage.That’s just the front nine. We’re also diving into a massive week for golfers in our area - shoutout to Christian Cavaliere, who made a run to the Final Four at the U.S. Mid-Am, then just a few days later fired a course-record 63 at The Stanwich Club. We recap the NJPGA Championship at Knickerbocker and tease our upcoming segment, “From the Grandstand.” On the Korn Ferry Tour, we recap the Nationwide Children’s Hospital Championship, where Ryan and James missed the cut, and preview a do-or-die week at the Compliance Solutions Championship as both players fight to reach the Finals.🎧 Stream now and stay plugged in to all things Golfing in the Garden State.

What’s one public course in New Jersey we haven’t played - but absolutely need to? Inspired by our Instagram poll, Mike and Ryan reveal their Garden State golf bucket lists, from legendary layouts to hidden gems still waiting for a tee time. Then we tee up a question every golfer’s asked: What does it really take to be a “good” golfer? Is it breaking 90? Shooting in the 70s? Or just keeping the ball in play? This is the episode every weekend warrior can relate to.Then we take it global - Ryder Cup rosters are officially locked, and yep, we called it. We break down Team Europe’s final picks, DraftKings betting odds, and how Team USA stacks up. Plus, the PGA Tour Fall Series kicks off with the Procure Championship, and we’re keeping a close eye on Ryan McCormick & James Nicholas as the Korn Ferry Playoffs heat up at the Simmons Bank Open. Full 2026 Tour status is on the line.🎙️ Follow The DROP for your weekly fix of Golfing in the Garden State - where local love meets global golf stories.

Should Keegan Bradley have picked himself for the 2025 U.S. Ryder Cup Team USA roster? The captain of Team USA just dropped his six selections and we’re breaking down everything. From the automatic qualifiers to the surprise picks (and snubs), we dig into form, loyalty, and strategy: who earned it, who didn’t, and what this roster means for America’s shot at reclaiming the Cup. As always, we bring a Jersey-fueled perspective to the national conversation.Plus: Megha Ganne captures the U.S. Women’s Amateur - another massive moment for New Jersey golf. We recap the NJ Public Links Championship, Ryan revisits and ranks Francis Byrne Golf Course, and he shares his thoughts after a round at Beacon Hill Country Club. With the PGA and Korn Ferry Tours taking a breather, we also ask: do we really have a true Tour Champion this year?Follow The DROP for your weekly fix of NJ golf stories, Ryder Cup takes, and the insight you won’t hear on the big-name pods.

Looking for New Jersey’s ultimate golf getaway? This week on The DROP Podcast, we’re spotlighting Crystal Springs Resort, home to six award-winning courses, including the iconic Ballyowen Golf Club and Crystal Springs Golf Club. Nestled in Sussex County’s scenic hills, Crystal Springs delivers a full golf destination experience - with championship-caliber layouts, the luxury of Grand Cascades Lodge, and elite instruction at the Leadbetter Golf Academy. Whether you're chasing birdies at Ballyowen’s links-style masterpiece or navigating the lush fairways of Crystal Springs GC, every round is a blend of beauty, strategy, and pure Garden State golf.We break down everything you need to know before planning your trip: course strategies, must-play holes, resort amenities, and why Crystal Springs has become the go-to for golfers seeking both luxury and challenge. If you’re plotting a New Jersey golf stay-and-play weekend - or just want to know where the state's top public golf resort sets the standard — this is your inside guide to a true Garden State gem.Want your course featured? Email us: TheDROPGolfPodcast@gmail.comFollow to The DROP — your weekly insider pass to Golfing in the Garden State.

This week on The DROP Podcast, Ryan takes us across the pond for an unforgettable 2025 Ireland golf trip. From the dramatic dunes of Hackett Links and Wild Atlantic Dunes at Carne Golf Links to the historic County Sligo, the breathtaking Narin & Portnoo, and modern masterpieces like St. Patrick’s Links and Sandy Hills, Ryan relives every round with insider detail and a Garden State golfer’s perspective. If you’ve ever dreamed of teeing it up on Ireland’s legendary links, this recap is your front-row seat.Back home, the action heats up with the MGA Met Open Championship at Meadow Brook Club and the NJ Golf Public Links at Galloping Hill, where local talent battles for hardware. Plus, we set the stage for the FedEx Cup Playoffs and Korn Ferry Tour Playoffs, with careers, PGA Tour cards, and season-ending drama on the line.Hit play for golf travel, local competition, and the biggest stories in the game - all in one episode. Follow The DROP for more golf travel stories, NJ golf coverage, and your weekly fix of Golfing in the Garden State.Follow The DROP - your insider pass to New Jersey golf.

This Tuesday Show features our full course spotlight on Shore Gate Golf Club, a South Jersey standout just minutes from the beach and miles away from ordinary. Routinely ranked among New Jersey’s top 20 public tracks, Shore Gate offers 18 holes of pure, tree-lined isolation - and a challenge built for players who love precision golf. Whether you’re sizing up that 648-yard beast of a par-5 or attacking the gettable par-3 14th, Shore Gate demands your best from start to finish.We break down everything you need to know before booking a tee time: layout strategy, course conditions, practice facilities, and the shot values that make Shore Gate both punishing and addicting. If you’re planning a Jersey Shore golf trip - or just want to know where South Jersey’s elite players are sharpening their game - this is your insider’s guide to one of the Garden State’s most respected public courses.Want your course featured? Email us: TheDROPGolfPodcast@gmail.comFollow The DROP for your weekly fix of Golfing in the Garden State.