Volunteers Help at the Greenbrier Classic, Plus Enjoy Some Perks - Beckley, Bluefield & Lewisburg News, Weather, Sports

A small army is helping out at America's Resort while the Greenbrier Classic tournament is in full swing.

Nearly 2,000 volunteers are spread across the Old White course to keep the PGA Tour event moving smoothly.  Matthew Tate is one of those lending out a hand to America's Resort. He comes from Arkansas every year to be a standard bearer, and he says he owes The Greenbrier because it gave him his start.

"I'm connected to the hotel. My first paying job was a caddy here at The Greenbrier," said Tate. "I caddied here from 74 to 81. I really got my start here and all of my family is connected to the hotel."

But while some are on the course, others are working to keep the spectators from distracting the pros. Ron Fielitz holds the "quiet please" sign and was also the first volunteer to sign up for the inaugural Greenbrier Classic in 2010.  He said that after the first year, he became "hooked" on the biggest event in town.

"The crowd is really good and most of them are very respectful. They listen to you when you say it's time to be quiet, so most people are good," said Fielitz

Fielitz said one of the biggest perks about being a volunteer is working side-by-side with some of the best golfers in the world.

"During the practice rounds we get within five feet of them, and they'll talk to you. It's just great to watch them."

While it is fun for the volunteers Tate said there's one ideal group he'd love to walk with this weekend.

"Everybody would like to have Tiger or Phil or John Daily or Jim Furyk, but whoever you get it's just exciting. It doesn't matter to me. I'm just excited to be apart of it!"