Rick Smith

Rick Smith is a renowned American golf course architect and instructor whose influence on the game spans decades. He began his career as a highly respected golf instructor, working with legends like Phil Mickelson and Jack Nicklaus, before making his mark in course design. Smith’s courses, including the acclaimed Signature Course at Treetops Resort and Arcadia Bluffs in Michigan, are lauded for their artistry and playability. He has designed nine award-winning courses in the U.S., with work extending internationally, notably collaborating with Phil Mickelson on projects in Canada, Bali, and China. Smith’s design philosophy blends traditional Scottish and Irish links inspiration with the natural beauty of his chosen landscapes. Beyond design, Smith is a noted author, Golf Digest teaching editor, and TV personality, with a significant legacy in both instruction and course architecture. He was inducted into the Michigan Golf Hall of Fame in 2012 and is celebrated as Michigan's Golf Ambassador.