Rochester Hills, MI – Oakland University has retained Christopher Wilczynski, ASGCA of C.W. Golf Architecture to develop a golf course architectural master plan for the Katke-Cousins 18-hole golf course, one of the University’s two championship golf courses, and home to the Golden Grizzlies men’s and women’s golf teams.
“It’s a privilege to work with Oakland University on the enhancement of the prestigious Katke-Cousins Golf Course, and to be involved with a property that has such a distinct history,” Wilczynski said. “The course infrastructure needs a general upgrade given its age, so we are in the process of reimagining the course to amplify its architectural intent, aesthetics, and playability to meet the standards of today’s golfer as well as future golfers,” he added.
Nestled within the rolling landscape of Rochester Hills, a northern suburb of Detroit, the scenic Katke-Cousins golf course is part of the Meadow Brook estate and sits adjacent to the farmhouse and 9-hole course once owned and maintained by American automobile manufacturing pioneer, John Dodge. After Dodge’s 9-hole course closed in 1919, it was over 50 years later when supporters Marvin Katke and Harold Cousins donated funds for the construction of a new 18-hole course, designed by Robert Beard in 1976. The Katke-Cousins course named for its benefactors, eventually opened to the public in 1977 and to this day, remains a highly regarded, and top ranked course in Michigan.
The course has held numerous professional and amateur tournaments, including the Hall Financial Michigan Open in 2023 and 2024, an event that attracts the state’s top professionals and amateur golfers. It also hosted the GAM Tournament of Champions and GAM Senior Tournament of Champions (2020), The Summit League Women's Golf Championship in April 2009, as well as the first Ryder Cup Champions Invitational in September 2004 among others.
“We’re thrilled to be working with Chris on this project,” said Nick Pumford, Oakland University Golf General Manager. “He’s a seasoned professional with an impressive track record of revitalizing many great golf facilities. Our team has met several times to discuss the vision and pending plans. We enjoy Chris’ process and his collaborative approach, and we look forward to continuing to work together to develop a roadmap to enhance and preserve the history and beauty of this storied facility,” he added.
Timing for the course improvement work will be determined once the vision and master plan is approved. “The goal will be to implement the course enhancement work as efficiently as possible while creating minimal disruption to the playing experience,” Wilczynski stated.
About Oakland University
Oakland University (OU) is a public doctoral research institution in Greater Metro Detroit that promotes a global perspective amid an inclusive, close-knit community. It empowers nearly 16,000 graduate and undergraduate students with experiential education and diverse opportunities. The campus is infused with academics, arts, and Division I athletics, and the Golden Grizzlies set the pulse of the community.
With a $1 billion economic footprint, OU is a regional powerhouse with an international reach. Internships and research opportunities with corporate partners embolden their students to go beyond the books. By forging relationships with hundreds of businesses, including hospitals, Fortune 500 companies, cities, government agencies and educational institutions, OU connects students to their community, career and beyond.
Oakland’s roots stem from the generosity of Alfred Wilson and Matilda Dodge Wilson. In 1957, they donated their historic estate and $2 million to Michigan State University to plant the seed for progress by establishing a satellite school, named Michigan State University - Oakland. Since then, OU has flourished, impacting tens of thousands of students who call Oakland University their alma mater.
About C.W. Golf Architecture
C.W. Golf Architecture, located in Saline, Michigan, was formed in 2010 by Chris Wilczynski, an active member of the American Society of Golf Course Architects. The boutique firm specializes in a wide range of services including the master planning and renovation of existing private and public golf courses and the design and development of new golf courses and practice facilities. C.W. Golf Architecture is dedicated to creating unique and sustainable design solutions that captivate golfers, enhance playability, and provide enjoyment and social benefits to communities throughout North America. For more information, please visit www.cwgolfarch.com or contact Chris Wilczynski at (734) 395-794.