Dormie Golf Tees, A Small Design That Stands Out
Behind the Brand: The History of Dormie Network’s Logo and Golf Tee
Every round of golf begins with the same simple act: teeing up. In that unassuming moment—pushing a tee into the ground, balancing a ball on its top, and taking that first swing—a world of focus, hope, and quiet anticipation unfolds. It’s where habit meets performance and where tradition gently whispers to modernity.
Some choose their golf tee by habit or even by superstition, clutching a lucky one for years. But if you’ve ever stepped onto a Dormie Network course, you encountered a very specific tee: one adorned with two black stripes and two white stripes, with a vibrant red top adorning the unmistakable Dormie Network flagstick logo. Dormie golf tees stand out with their signature design, making them a top choice for golfers while showcasing one of the most iconic logos in the sport.
Dormie Network Golf Tees
How the Dormie Golf Tee Came to Be
A Nod to the Past and a Look to the Future
“We replicated the Dormie Network flagstick icon to the tee,” says Zach Peed, Dormie Network President. “It turned out to be an awesome design. The black and white stripes and red top make them stand out when they go flying off the tee box. Since they’re the standard at all courses in the Network, they end up everywhere!”
It was none other than Mark Ruhga, Dormie Network’s Chief Operating Officer, who first sketched the concept for the Dormie golf tee back in 2017.
Seems simple right? But there’s more to the story. There's more to the brand behind one of golf’s best collections of private destination clubs.
In 2017, Dormie Network took shape with a bold vision for private destination golf. At the time, Zach Peed was carefully assembling his vision for a collection of private golf clubs, with a plan in place but still in search of the perfect name to tie it all together. The acquisition of Dormie Club in West End, North Carolina (just outside of Pinehurst) provided just that, giving birth to the name "Dormie Network." This is why Dormie Network’s iconic flagstick logo is shared by both the Network and Dormie Club, representing the foundation of the entire brand. Meanwhile, each of the other clubs within the Network features its own unique logo, reflecting the individuality of each course.
Preview each Dormie Network club logo here.
According to Timeless Patents, the history of the golf flag dates back to the 15th century, when early golf courses used simple wooden stakes to mark holes, with flags added in the 19th century for better visibility. Initially made of wool or cotton in colors like white, green, or red, flags evolved in design, with golfers experimenting with various patterns, including stripes and checkers.
The logo design is a simple yet significant flagstick. The pole of the flagstick has black and white stripes, while the flag is an eye-catching red. The vibrant red flag is crowned with two black stripes, one along the top edge and one along the bottom edge. These decorative stripes aren’t just there for looks; they embody golf’s dual nature. One stripe honors the history of golf, a tribute to the sport’s deep traditions.
The other black stripe represents the future of golf, a forward-looking vision. This exact flagstick logo design is what the actual flagsticks at Dormie Network courses resemble. And these two bold black stripes are always present, including on the design of the Dormie tee.
The Dormie Network logo isn’t just a design—it’s a symbol of the game’s evolution. And the Dormie golf tees bring that symbol to life, marking the start of every round played at a Dormie Network course. Those two black stripes serve as a reminder that every Dormie tee is a celebration of where golf has been and where it’s boldly headed. It’s a tiny, yet mighty gesture to how Dormie Network takes a modern approach to a classic game.
The Tees That Travel
“The Dormie flagstick logo has become one of the most recognizable and sought-after designs in the Network,” shares Chief Hospitality Officer Chris Graham. “Each Network club has an onsite Golf Shop, and about 50% of the merchandise features the flagstick logo, with the remainder showcasing the local club's logo. With thousands of guests visiting our clubs annually, the logo’s reach and adoption continues to expand."
What started as a simple branding decision quickly turned into something bigger. The bold design isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about function and identity. Dormie golf tees are instantly recognizable, ensuring they don’t get lost in the grass like traditional solid-colored wooden tees. The black-and-white stripes serve a dual purpose: they create a striking visual contrast against the green, and they provide golfers with a built-in guide for consistent tee height.
Can you spot the tee?
The signature Dormie golf tee is used at all Dormie Network courses, spreading far and wide. Over time, these tees have become a collector’s item and a topic of conversation among avid golfers. Those who have played golf at Dormie Network courses find themselves carrying a few of these tees home to remember the experience onsite. They slip into bags, find their way into pockets, and even pop up at courses across the country and overseas. Don’t be surprised if you start glancing down during your next round, hoping to spot one for yourself.
We surveyed our members and asked them where they’ve used a Dormie tee or unexpectedly spotted one. Here are a few responses:
“On the sidewalk during the Eagles Super Bowl parade”
"Prestwick Golf Club, Trump Turnberry"
"Used them throughout Northern Ireland. The caddies would regularly inquire about their origin. That would turn into a synopsis of Dormie Network."
"I've made it a tradition to give everyone in my foursome a Dormie tee at the beginning of every round, whether I know the people in my foursome or not. As a result, I see Dormie tees all over Denver, mostly at CommonGround Golf Course."
"John’s Island Club in Vero Beach, FL and Apogee in Hobe Sound, FL. "
"My home course in Miami, Deering Bay. "
Dormie Network members and their guests teed up about 550,000 Dormie tees last year.
The Tee That Tells a Story
More than just a tool, the Dormie tee is a small but mighty representation of the brand and an unforgettable experience at Dormie Network golf clubs. It’s a small token that signals elite golf—much like a fine watch or a custom set of clubs, embodying luxury, style, and the unique ethos of Dormie Network.
Beyond its function, the Dormie tee tells a story. Its signature stripes represent the history, future, and spirit of the game. With each tee pushed into the ground, the legacy of Dormie is carried forward—a functional piece of art that is as practical as it is visually striking.
The next time you find a black and white striped tee with a red top on the course, you’ll know exactly where it came from. If you do get your hands on one, just remember: you’re not just starting your next hole—you’re playing with a piece of the game’s past, present, and future in hand.
