In this episode of Sticks Together, we share the highs and lows of our summer golf experiences and introduce a concept that resonated with us: “NFL Rules” in golf. NFL Rules. You'll have to listen to find out what this means.

Reflecting on summer highlights, Stacey talks about her commitment to improving her game, including practice and lessons, which led to a noticeable drop in her handicap and personal victories like breaking 90 on her home course. She recalls memorable moments, such as birdieing a difficult hole and making an eagle, milestones that kept her motivated. Slade shares his own season highlight—three impressive rounds with friends on familiar courses from his youth, showing how good friends and familiar greens make for a rewarding experience.

Of course, no golf season is complete without a few frustrating rounds. Slade and Stacey swap stories of less-than-stellar days and the emotional challenges they can bring, especially when playing as a couple. Slade’s toughest day included losing multiple balls off the tee, while Stacey recalled a high-stakes tournament day when nothing seemed to go right. We agree that there’s a unique struggle in couples' golf—when one is in a bad mood or struggling, it’s hard for the other to remain unaffected. Slade and Stacey reflect on how they've learned to manage this dynamic by giving each other space, respecting each other’s mood, and sometimes just embracing the bad day.

Bad moods manifest in each of our hosts differently! Slade tends to go quiet when he’s struggling, which can be tough for Stacey, who finds talking it out helpful. The conversation shifts to a philosophy from a friend: unlike the gym, where you may dread going but always feel accomplished after, golf often draws you in with excitement but sometimes leaves you walking away frustrated. Yet despite the challenges, the joy and triumphs of golf keep us coming back.