Frequently Asked Questions

  • Doc's Hill at First Tee – Greater Charlotte's Learning Center at Pineville is an innovative 18-hole public putting course designed with challenging, changing, and sloped landscapes. Open to all skill levels for practice and fun, it honors the legacy of Doc Wagner, features varied, dynamic layouts, and frequently hosts junior tournament events. 

    Location at The Pine: 1400 Pineville-Matthews Rd, Charlotte, NC 28270 (First Tee Learning Center at Pineville).

  • Most challenges use a Stroke Play format where you count every stroke until the ball is in the hole. To keep the game moving, many leagues implement a 6-stroke maximum per hole

  • Participants are encouraged to bring their own putter, but the Pro Shop typically has rentals or loaners available for those who need them. You must use a standard golf ball; however, some specific tournaments may provide "tournament-only" balls to ensure a level playing field.

  • While Doc’s Hill is a relaxed public facility, First Tee generally follows standard golf etiquette. Closed-toe shoes are recommended (sneakers are perfect), flip-flops are okay, while heels are usually prohibited to protect the specialized turf.

  • If your ball leaves the natural putting surface, you may take a free drop at the point where it exited, no closer to the hole. If your ball is resting against a physical obstacle (like a sign or the course edge), you are typically allowed a one-putter-head length relief.

  • In a competitive challenge, practice putts on the course during your round are strictly prohibited. You are encouraged to use the designated practice areas at the Learning Center before your scheduled tee time.

  • To maintain the Pace of Play, groups are strictly limited to a maximum of 4 players. Larger parties will be split into back-to-back tee times.

  • Ties for first place are usually decided by a "Putt-Off"—a sudden-death competition on a designated hole—or a "scorecard playoff" (comparing scores on the hardest holes).