Many people put away their golf clubs at the sight of snowfall, but a little cold weather will not stop all golfers from playing this winter at the River Heights golf course.

The 18-hole course at 1100 S. Annie Glidden Road that winds along the banks of the Kishwaukee River stays open year-round, on holidays and on weekends.

“We do allow people to play all year round, but we do not have an indoor facility,” said Justin Miner, golfer and employee at the facility’s pro-shop.

Many people take advantage of the facility during the winter months.

“In December, we see an average of about 75 to 100 people,” Miner said, “Some people come out on holidays, but it’s usually fewer than the average. We see about 15 people on holidays.”

Many people use the course to work on their golfing skills in the off-season and some golfer’s dedication to the game keeps them playing no matter the day or weather conditions.

“I’ve seen people playing when it’s been 30 degrees outside and 20 mile-an-hour winds,” Miner said.

The NIU women’s golf team also uses the facility in the off season when preparing for competitions.

“As long as it’s not lightning outside, we will be practicing,” said Pam Tyska, head coach of NIU’s Women’s golf team. “We have played in all types of weather,” she said. “In the spring, we pretty much come ready to play in our rain gear.”

Tyska said some of their competitions can contain up to 36 holes, and if it’s raining, it could be a long day that may take anywhere from 10 to 12 hours.

Regardless of dedication, in extreme weather conditions, the course may close.

“We don’t let anyone in and close the outside whenever the poor weather conditions can be hazardous to someone’s health,” Miner said.

In instances of heavy rain, thunder or lighting and below zero temperatures, he said the facility will close down for the day.

However, snow alone does not keep golfers from playing on the course. Many golfers accommodate by using colored golf balls so they can see the balls in the snow.

“When you play when it’s six feet of snow and two degrees outside, you have to be an extreme fanatic of the sport,” Tysk said.