An inspiration to themselves and others, members of the Northside Golf League have been praying and playing together for more than three years. Founder of the group Denise Bowman, a Village of Chatham resident, had the idea of starting a group that prayed before playing golf. Bowman said she prayed to God about the idea and received a resounding “yes.”
The group kicked-off on March 31, 2013 with eight members. Through word of mouth the group has grown to 56 members. This women’s golf group plays the executive courses north of County Road 466 once a week on Thursdays.
“We want to experience and enjoy the courses in our own backyard,” says Bowman.
Since Day One, they have gathered in a circle prior to their tee time to pray. Bowman is a Christian, but says the group is open to anyone comfortable with prayer. Seeing this group of women pray is what inspired one woman to walk over and introduce herself. Now a member, she just knew she had to be part of this group.
They pray to give thanks; they pray for people experiencing challenges. While in the circle any member may share a situation to add to that day’s prayer. E-mails go out when a prayer need arises.
“We have some real prayer warriors in this group,” said Bowman. “We know that part of doing our part with challenges includes giving them over to God.”
They are a very tight knit group. They lunch together, laugh together and support each other during difficult times. Each member has a nickname. Most pick their own name; some require help from the group. Baking Betty usually brings treats for the group as does Jelly Bean Joyce and Peppermint Patty. Named for their personalities are Chatty Cathy and Vibrant Vivian. Sexy Sherry’s name begins with a bra story and we’ll leave it at that.
Another common thread among this group is their admiration for group leader Determined Denise as she is known. Although she is quick to point out that it is a team effort, everyone without fail when they convened for a picture mentioned what all she does to keep this group running.
Karaoke Kathy who at 86 has the distinction of being the oldest member of the group.
“Of all the organizations I have belonged to in the Villages, this group has the best camaraderie I have ever seen in a group of all women. Each person truly wants the best for everybody in the group,” she said.
Maryland Mary enjoys the diversity in the group. She describes the group as loving, supportive and kind. She credits Bowman for the tenor of the group.
“Peace and love is the tone of the group,” says Bowman. “We enjoy fun and fellowship in a relaxed atmosphere, always keeping God in the center of our lives.”
Irresistible Inez is returning to the group after a long illness. About a year ago she found herself suddenly crippled, unable to get out of bed. A recurrence of a 33 year old injury had cropped up.
“I truly feel the prayers helped me,” said Inez. “The prayers, the cards, the e-mails reminding me they were praying for me, were helpful in getting me out of bed and back to being myself – jumping, skipping and praising.”
“When prayers go up, blessings come down” is a favorite expression of Bowman’s. This self-described workaholic moved to the Villages about six and a half years ago after retiring from the Harvard School of Education. She was looking for a way to give back.
“I feel the golf group is a part of doing that,” said Bowman.
In addition to supporting each other, members of the group have also raised money for charities such as Feed the Children and the Shepherd’s Lighthouse. They keep the fun rolling with caravan trips occasionally to a south side course. Near any holidays they have a twilight golf game and invite husbands and significant others. The men are also earning their nicknames. Bowman’s husband is Gorgeous Gourmet George.
If you would enjoy seeing pictures of this group you can visit their website: https://sites.google.com/site/nortsidegolfleague/home. If you would like to speak to Determined Denise about the group, she welcomes your phone calls at 352-693-2454.