BENTON HARBOR, Mich. – United Federal Credit Union (United) was on hand for the opening of the Wee Course expansion at Harbor Shores on August 25 as an official corporate sponsor of the new family-focused amenity. The Wee Course consists of a nine-hole pitch-and-putt layout with holes of 80 yards or less. It was designed by Hall of Fame golfer and 2014 and 2015 KitchenAid Senior PGA champion Colin Montgomerie.
L to R: Johnathan Wingfield, United’s Director of Commercial Lending; Chris Cook, Harbor Shores Community Redevelopment Managing Director; Matt Orlando, United’s Director of PR; Tina Vaught, United’s St. Joseph Branch Manager/Southwest Michigan Group Leader; Josh Pratt, United’s Business Loan Officer; Jay Barber, United’s Benton Harbor Branch Manager; Kaylee Ganus, United’s Chief Marketing Officer; Josh Doxtator, Harbor Shores General Manager; Pam Klyn, Whirlpool Foundation’s President
“I’m thrilled to be part of this special project with Harbor Shores, a place and community I hold close to my heart,” said Montgomerie. "The Wee Course is more than just a golf amenity—it’s a gathering place for every generation. Having seen how short courses bring people together around the world, especially in Scotland, I know this course will create the same sense of community here. With nine holes that can be played in under an hour, resort guests, families, and youth will find it a fun, affordable way to spend time outdoors, away from screens, while learning the values and etiquette that make golf so special. It’s an investment in both the game and the community that will pay dividends for generations.”
United has proudly committed $25,000 as a Silver Level Corporate Sponsor of the Wee Course. This sponsorship supports the launch of UFCU First Tee Days in collaboration with First Tee – Benton Harbor, offering a creative new way to introduce youth across southwest Michigan to the game of golf.
“For over 20 years, First Tee – Benton Harbor has been a remarkable organization where kids from all walks of life can come together to discover what’s possible when golf is paired with meaningful life lessons,” said Kaylee Ganus, Chief Marketing Officer at United. “Team United is happy to help expand opportunities for kids in our community through this partnership, while giving them the ability to build core values like integrity, respect, and perseverance.”
First Tee students and coaches participate in the opening of the Wee Course.
UFCU First Tee Days will begin in 2026 and provide an open house environment for kids to explore the course and learn more about the First Tee program. Kids who attend UFCU First Tee Days will receive logo wear, free rental clubs, and a snack as they enjoy the day at the Wee Course.
Jeff Fettig, former chairman and CEO of Whirlpool Corporation and a leading contributor through the Fettig Family Foundation, and the visionary behind this Harbor Shores expansion, sees the Wee Course having a major impact on the youth in the community.
“The opening of the Wee Course is another milestone in our mission to make Harbor Shores a true catalyst for community growth,” said Fettig. “This project is about more than golf—it’s about inspiring the next generation. With support for programs like First Tee Benton Harbor and the Boys and Girls Clubs, First Robotics, as well as our three local public-school foundations, we’re creating a place where area youth can learn, grow, and experience the game in a fun and accessible way. The design, with multiple tee options and lighting for evening play, ensures this course will be a gathering place for families, friends, resort guests, and the entire community. We couldn’t be more excited about the impact it will have, both today and in seeding the future.”
As Harbor Shores enters this new chapter in its ongoing commitment to the community, Joshua Doxtator, PGA General Manager, has witnessed strong support from both residents and sponsors like United. He is excited to share the Wee Course with both golf enthusiasts and non-players.
“Our ability to continue to grow the game has expanded tenfold,” said Doxtator. “Through innovative programming and special events like putting leagues, junior leagues, mixed and late-night leagues, the Wee Course will have something to offer everyone.”
The Wee Course features a combination of two sets of tee markers, allowing the option to play 18 holes. The longer tees (blue) feature more angles and challenging pitch shots or choose the forward tees (white) for shorter pitch shots, perfect for kids and beginners. Golfers can also use a putter from the forward tees on every hole, creating some exciting shots over slopes and hills on their way to the flag. Playing a combination of both sets of tees can also offer a fun golfing option.
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About United
United Federal Credit Union has served its Members since 1949 by helping them to build a sound financial future. United consists of more than 194,000 Member/owners worldwide and manages assets in excess of $4.0 billion. Its corporate office and main branch are in St. Joseph, Mich., with additional branches in Arkansas, Indiana, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio and Pennsylvania.