It is cold outside and most golf courses are closed. We occupy ourselves by watching golf on TV and playing simulators. Therefore, it is fitting that we have had the chance to interview Ted Roos from RUFF in Helsingborg.

- Who are you? Tell us a little about yourself.

I am 40 years old, have two children, live with my partner Angelica, and reside in Hyllinge just outside Helsingborg. I have worked in the golf industry since 2015. I studied sports marketing between 2014-2016 and started my company while I was studying, as I wanted to work with combining experiences and business for companies. I got help from the school to start the company, and in 2016 I was commissioned to set up a business network together with six golf clubs. I still run that network (@nvsgf) today with the help of the golf clubs. Nearly a year ago, I came in contact with RUFF and thought it would be fun to maybe do something together or help them in some way. 4 months later we signed a contract, and RUFF Helsingborg would open in September.

- Please tell us more about RUFF and RUFF Helsingborg

RUFF took simulator golf to the next level, and every site is unique in its own way. Everyone in the industry uses Trackman, and we focus on what happens before and after. That is at least as important as the experience with Trackman. We have also put a lot of focus on staffing our facilities with knowledgeable personnel.

RUFF Helsingborg is located near the Väla shopping center, north of Helsingborg, and we currently have six Trackman simulators, two conference rooms, a lounge, and a bistro. In addition, we have a partnership with a catering firm and a restaurant that delivers food to us. This allows us to take care of all our guests, private individuals, and companies that want to do something different.

- Indoor golf is really on the rise, what do you think is the next step?

Long-term, Trackman is constantly developing its launch monitor, and new players are appearing on the market that can enhance the experience with things like floors that move according to the terrain on the golf course or the green when you are putting.

I also believe that Trackman needs to develop its competition module with more game formats, or perhaps collaborate with other players who have specialized in digital competitions. There is an interest in competing among many simulator players.

- Do you play a lot of golf and where do you prefer to play?

I play as soon as I get the opportunity, indoors as well as outdoors. In the summer of 2021, it was about 65 rounds, and I’ve had about 40 rounds indoors so far... Before May 1st, I will have hit 100, haha. I am very much looking forward to testing "my new swing" that I have built up over the winter. Then I’ll see if I dare to do the same things outdoors as I do at RUFF Helsingborg.

- What do you think about dress codes on golf courses?

I am more in favor of the classic look on the golf course, long trousers and a polo shirt. But I think it is fun with brands that push the envelope and test the boundaries. I doubt I would play with a hoodie... But there is a garment for everyone.

- What changes do you think golf can make to attract more people to start playing?

Simulator golf is a perfect step for many new golfers! How discouraging can it be to stand on a huge driving range and watch the ball fly a few meters? With us at RUFF, you can play different games and collect points in several different themes, including skyscrapers, dinosaurs, etc. Especially when it comes to children and young people, but I am convinced that adults also find this fun. Just because it is so unconventional.

More short-hole courses at existing golf clubs so that all newcomers can play more; very few get out on the "big course" but get stuck at the practice area.

Thank you very much Daniel and welcome to RUFF HELSINGBORG!

We thank Ted for his time and recommend that you all visit RUFF in Helsingborg. Fantastically enjoyable!