Following an exhaustive search, Modry Las Golf Club has announced the appointment of Stewart Snedden as its director of golf. The newly created role is part of a phased series of improvements that has already seen the Polish course named as one of Europe’s best tracks.
Snedden, who joins Modry Las from the highly regarded Swanston Golf Club in his native Scotland, took up his position in May. The 46-year-old admitted the chance to take up a leading role at one of Europe’s top courses was too good an opportunity to miss.
“The course is challenging and beautifully designed. To come here is a privilege,” he commented. “Modry Las is two years old and has established itself as one of Europe’s top courses. In my opinion, it could host any tournament from any of the tours. I’ve seen a lot of tracks around Europe but few come close to this. It’s very exciting to be here.”
Snedden spent four years at Swanston helping quadruple membership while project managing the redesign of the 18-hole course, masterminding the introduction of a par-three course and the opening of a bespoke practice facility. The Scot also caddied for the club’s touring pro John Gallagher, who won the Scottish Amateur Championship in 2007.
Before entering the golf industry, Snedden spent 27 years in the British Army serving in the infantry and then in the army air corps as a captain. He toured the world visiting a number of hotspots including Iraq, Bosnia and Afghanistan.
His new role at Modry Las will be marginally less hazardous liaising with members, corporate clients and staff. “It was great to celebrate our second anniversary with Stewart, who has added an important new dimension to our team,” said Arthur Gromadzki, chairman of Modry Las. “His proven track record of growing local membership and attracting visitors is an ideal match for our ambitions. He also has great leadership skills and a determination to make things happen. He now has a beautifully designed Gary Player-signature course to work with, so I am looking forward to his contribution.”
In other news, Modry Las has confirmed Waldemar Ziemak has become the director of administration and Maciej Zakrzewski is the club’s new resident pro. The 29-year-old, PGA qualified golf instructor was thrilled at his appointment. “Modry Las is developing an incredible reputation,” he said. “This is a great opportunity to be part of its future, and perhaps help some golfers lower their scores along the way.”