Cedar Creek Golf Club: A Unique Path to Rehabilitation Through Golf
Credit: Nick Piastowski
In late July, I found myself at Cedar Creek Corrections Center, a minimum-security prison located just outside Olympia, Washington. My visit revolved around a fascinating initiative led by Superintendent Tim Trasher, who aimed to introduce golf as a tool for rehabilitation within the inmate population. This venture, now known as Cedar Creek Golf Club (CCGC), has garnered attention for its potential to transform lives through the sport.
The Foundation of Cedar Creek Golf Club
Cedar Creek Golf Club was established with the hope that participating inmates would experience personal growth and rehabilitation. Though still in its infancy, the program has shown promise, fostering camaraderie and encouraging personal responsibility—a quality often highlighted by golf enthusiasts.
A Unique Atmosphere
During my time at CCGC, I observed a blend of competition and support among the inmates. During a pitching contest I participated in, I felt a palpable sense of pressure, reminiscent of the weight often carried in real-life situations. Despite my nerves, I managed to land the ball on the green, a feat that elicited both cheers and playful banter from the audience.
It was evident that golf was more than just a game for these men. They expressed sentiments about finding pride in their efforts, mirroring the sense of fulfillment many golfers feel when stepping onto their home course.
Lessons Beyond the Fairway
My time at CCGC included engaging with the inmates while playing a few rounds with Trasher and a former inmate turned golfer named Brandon. I quickly learned the importance of abiding by the rules of the game—much to Brandon’s amusement when he caught me bending the rules on the second hole.
A Day of Freedom
An additional highlight of my visit was witnessing a special outing organized for five members of CCGC at a nearby golf course. This event included job training, lessons, and a four-hole scramble. One inmate shared a moving moment when he closed his eyes, allowing himself to envision freedom—a poignant reminder of the hope that golf can inspire.
“It’s a different world out here,” he said, noting the importance of providing inmates with the tools necessary for reintegration into society. “What Thrasher is doing is a great thing. It’s bettering these men. The camaraderie we share on the golf course transcends prison politics.”
A Lasting Impression
After my visit, I received a handwritten card featuring messages of gratitude along with a lighthearted illustration of a loofah—an amusing tribute to the friendly competition we engaged in during my time there. Though I left the prize behind, the gesture highlighted the meaningful connections formed through this program.
Cedar Creek Golf Club is not just about golfing. It’s a transformative experience enabling inmates to develop skills, foster friendships, and envision a better future. As Superintendent Trasher continues to guide these individuals on their journeys, CCGC stands as a testament to golf’s potential for personal change.
Stay tuned for further developments from Cedar Creek Golf Club as we explore the intersection of sports and rehabilitation.
