It wasn't easy for John Fought to understand it at the time but when his six-year PGA Tour playing days started to close due to neck and back injuries, it helped open the door on what has become a successful second career. 

John believes the following three qualities are the basics to an outstanding golf course designer:

1. One must have a keen understanding of the game of golf and it's rich history;

2. Have a full understanding of construction methods and techniques which could be applied at each site

3. Finally, a vibrant imagination is a must. Being able to envision concepts and have creative ideas that can be translated into the actual project you are designing.

The best golf courses, John says, are like obstacle courses: "I love it when people come up to me and say, 'I played that course and I had better be thinking when I'm out there. I need to go play that again. I can do better on that hole.' That's what it's all about."​