Little Met (Cleveland, OH)

Little Met has introduced many new players to the game of golf and was my home course the first few years. Located at base of Fairview Hill, it is easily accessible for everyone living on the Westside of Cleveland. Stanley Thompson designed it in 1925 as an introductory nine holer while Big Met was being built. It was so popular and such a success that the Metroparks kept it opened, giving the Rocky River Reservation 27 holes at the time. 

Little Met starts off with a longish par four that most beginners will be pleased to make five on. The second is the best hole on the course and its elliptical green falls away left, right, and behind. I can recall many a shot failing to hold the putting surface and finishing on the hill. Three is the only par five and is really a long par four. Skilled players will have a chance to reach it in two while beginners get the opportunity to reach it in regulation. Four is a short par four although a crease in the fairway can cause a funky lie. Five begins a three hole stretch of one shotters with the fifth featuring an undulating green. Six follows with a long iron or hybrid shot. Seven was always one of my favorites. The hole sits besides the dyke next to the Rocky River. The green is set at an angle and is two tiered. Eight is a mid par four that doglegs right and has a steep back to front slope. I made my first birdie here, a moment that kickstarted my love affair with the game. Nine finishes with a short driveable par four. If you’re looking to start your son or daughter on their golf journey, then Little Met is the perfect place to begin.