Today we’d like to introduce you to Jake Watson.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I love golf. When I started hearing about indoor golf simulators, I got very interested. A few of the businesses started opening around town and I decided I wanted to be involved. I researched and made plans to open a friendly, laid back club that caters to the casual golfer as well as the low handicap players who want access to the technology. A place where all golfers can afford access to simulators. I took a huge leap of faith and opened The Day And Night Golf Club (The DANG Club). I financed the business and designed and built the club myself.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The business plan was simple, but I had no experience in business and no way to know if it would work. The simulator business is hyper local, not many members are go I no to drive across town tobuse the club, the biggest struggle was getting the word out to all the golfers who lived within 10-15 miles of the club. Two years after opening, I still hear, “I didn’t even know you were here” all the time. I have learned a lot about leasing a commercial space and the pitfalls that can come with an older building. A/C issues, water leaks, and the inevitable broken windows from stray golf balls all lead to headaches as well as a feeling of accomplishment.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I have worked in the customer service field for most of my career. I studied culinary arts and worked in kitchens before finding my way to the car business. I have spent the last 25 years as an automotive Service Advisor, service manager, and in the parts department. I still have a day job as a parts department employee. The DANG Club has been designed to operate without an employee present most of the time so I am able to run it alone, which keeps the overhead to a minimum.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
I love music and it helps me block out the noise of life and keep a smile on my face. I love the band Phish, classic musicians like Van Morrison, Paul Simon, and the Rolling Stones. I also love Bluegrass music, Jazz, and hard rock. My wife, Kristy is a constant source of inspiration. She has battled leukemia twice and is thriving again after a bone marrow transplant. Our love for one another and deep devotion to each other keep me motivated on the tough days.
Pricing:
- The DANG Club pricing structure is very simple. $130.00 per month for unlimited access to the simulators. No initiation fee, no longer term contract, and no charge to bring guests.
- Discounted rate available for Active duty, veterans, first responders, and teachers.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://dayandnightgolf.com
- Instagram: dayandnightgolf
- Facebook: The Day And Night Golf Club
