The Motor City is trading cars for clubs this week as the 2025 Rocket Classic returns to historic Detroit Golf Club. This annual PGA Tour stop has quickly become a beloved summer tradition in Metro Detroit, drawing some of the world’s best golfers – and plenty of local fanfare – to the city’s north side. With a star-studded field, family-friendly events, and a historic course on the verge of a major facelift, this year’s tournament is shaping up to be the most exciting yet. The stage is set for four days of birdies, community spirit, and pure Detroit pride.
Detroit Golf Club, Facebook
The Venue: Historic Detroit Golf Club and Its “Old-School” Charm
Founded in 1899, Detroit Golf Club (DGC) boasts two 18-hole courses designed by legendary architect Donald Ross. The Rocket Classic is played on the North Course, a classical, tree-lined layout known for its flat terrain, strategic bunkering, and lightning-fast Ross greens. It’s a throwback design that top pros genuinely appreciate. “We don't get to play very many old-school golf courses like this, so it's a treat,” said Rocket Classic past champion Rickie Fowler, alluding to the course’s timeless architecture and character. The classic parkland style – with mature trees framing each hole and minimal water hazards – forces players to hit precise tee shots and rewards creative shot-making.
But this cherished course is about to enter a new era. Immediately after the tournament, DGC will close for a $16 million restoration aimed at returning the North Course to Ross’s original vision. Dozens of overgrown trees will be removed, a greenside pond (at the 14th hole) will be filled in, and drainage will be improved, among other upgrades. The goal is to have the restoration complete in time for the 2026 Rocket Classic, bringing back some lost Ross features while also making the course tougher for the pros. Not everyone is sure what to expect – Collin Morikawa (the highest-ranked player in this year’s field) has noted that trees give each hole its identity, and worries that without them holes could “blend together.” Still, he’s keeping an open mind and says the course is already “great” as is. Longtime club members and locals are watching closely, eager to see how their beloved course balances old and new. One thing’s for sure: 2025 offers a last chance to see Detroit Golf Club in its current classic form, before the changes take root.
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A Strong Field with Star Power and Local Flavor
This year’s Rocket Classic field is being hailed as the strongest in the event’s seven-year history, a welcome development for Detroit fans used to smaller star turnouts in years past. In all, 156 players will tee it up at DGC from Thursday through Sunday. Impressively, 12 of the world’s top 50 golfers are in town. You’ll see household names like Collin Morikawa (World No. 4 and a two-time major champion), Hideki Matsuyama (2021 Masters champ), recent U.S. Open winner Wyndham Clark, and Patrick Cantlay, among others, strolling the fairways in the 313. Ten golfers in the field have won majors in their careers, bringing serious pedigree to the Motor City. It’s a lineup worthy of a Signature event – even though the Rocket Classic isn’t one – and fans can expect some thrilling competition.
Past champions are back in force. In fact, **four of the tournament’s previous winners are playing this week: Cam Davis, Rickie Fowler, Tony Finau, and Nate Lashley. Australia’s Cam Davis is the defending champion (he lifted the trophy in 2024) and notably also won here in 2021, making Detroit the site of both his PGA Tour victories. Fan-favorite Rickie Fowler, who electrified the crowd with a win in 2023, returns not just as a Rocket Mortgage ambassador but as a man in resurgence – he’s once again contending in big events and knows this course better than most. Tony Finau, the 2022 champion, brings his laid-back flair (and local goodwill from his victory) back to DGC. And let’s not forget Nate Lashley, who in 2019 became the Rocket Classic’s inaugural winner with an emotional breakthrough win. The only former champion missing is Bryson DeChambeau (2020 champ), who now plays on the LIV Golf tour.
Beyond the headliners, the field is packed with intriguing stories and homegrown connections:
- Ryder Cup Drama: A subplot this year is the upcoming Ryder Cup (set for September), and players are eager to impress Team USA’s selectors. One of the biggest names here is Keegan Bradley, fresh off a victory last week at the Travelers Championship. Bradley is listed as the 2025 U.S. Ryder Cup captain and is also fighting to qualify as a player. His win in Connecticut vaulted him up the rankings, and Detroit could be another chance to make his case. Bradley himself noted that Detroit’s event “creates a lot of excitement and drama in the back nine… it always creates an exciting finish”. Expect him to be in full grind mode, wearing two hats as captain-in-waiting and contender. Other Ryder Cup hopefuls in the mix include Patrick Cantlay, Collin Morikawa, Tony Finau, and Justin Thomas (if he were in the field, though Thomas isn’t listed this year). With pride and team spots on the line, the competition should be fierce through Sunday.
- Local Talent Spotlight – Joe Hooks: One player sure to get extra cheers is Joe Hooks, a 28-year-old Detroit native making his PGA Tour debut. Hooks earned his spot by winning The John Shippen Invitational last weekend, an event at DGC that champions top Black golfers. For Hooks, this is the ultimate home game. He literally grew up at Detroit Golf Club – his father became a member in the early 1990s, and young Joe spent summers getting dropped off at the club at 8 a.m. while his parents ran their grocery store in Detroit’s Rosedale Park neighborhood, only to be picked up at dusk after “a childhood of getting dropped off here… from age 7 to 17”. Surrounded by supportive club members, Hooks honed his game on these very fairways. Now he’ll compete on them against the world’s best, an experience he calls “an unreal opportunity”. And he’s not just here to make an appearance – when asked what would count as success this week, Hooks grinned and said, “Winning. Winning on Sunday.” That bold attitude encapsulates Detroit’s scrappy spirit. Hooks’ journey from a kid roaming the course to a pro inside the ropes is exactly the kind of local story that makes the Rocket Classic special.
- Michigan Connections: Detroit’s PGA event always sprinkles in some local and regional flavor. This year Ashton McCulloch, a standout golfer at Michigan State University, received a sponsor’s exemption to compete against the pros. The collegiate theme continues with Dominic Clemons, who earned his spot by winning the Folds of Honor Collegiate tournament – he’s making his Tour debut as well. Hometown fans will also recognize Michigan natives like Ryan Brehm (a Mount Pleasant native and former Michigan State golfer) in the field. Even the international players give the event a cosmopolitan flair: golfers are here from over a dozen countries, including powerhouses like Australia, England, Japan, South Africa, and beyond. It’s truly a global field set against Detroit’s uniquely local backdrop.
All told, the 2025 Rocket Classic boasts one of its better fields ever, proving that Detroit can draw top talent – especially now that the PGA Tour’s schedule and Ryder Cup race have aligned to make this week more enticing. Expect low scores and high drama: as past champion Tony Finau once showed by shooting 26-under, Detroit Golf Club can yield birdies in bunches. With soft course conditions expected early on (thanks to some midweek rain) and receptive greens, players will likely go on the attack. The winning score could soar well into double digits under par, and the leaderboard is bound to be packed tightly on Sunday. Buckle up for an exciting ride on the back nine!
While you’re in town for the Rocket Classic, take some time to explore Detroit’s historic Towns
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Detroit Golf Club, Facebook
Tournament Schedule and Special Events
The Rocket Classic isn’t just four days of golf – it’s a week-long celebration with community events, theme days, and activities for fans of all ages. Here’s a day-by-day rundown of what’s happening and what to watch for:
- Thursday, June 26 – Round 1 (Bow Tie Day): Let the tournament proper begin! Round 1 tees off Thursday morning with half the field starting on the 1st hole and half on the 10th, beginning roughly at 7 a.m. (check pairings for exact tee times). Gates open bright and early at 6:45 a.m., and shuttle buses from the parking areas start running by 6:15 a.m. to get fans in place. Thursday carries a special meaning as “Bow Tie Day” – a tribute to the late Nick Gilbert, son of Rocket Mortgage founder Dan Gilbert. Nick, who passed away in 2023 after battling neurofibromatosis, was known for his signature bow tie and infectious spirit. In his honor, many fans and even staff will be sporting bow ties. It’s a heartwarming sight and a reminder of the tournament’s deeper community ties. On the course, players will be taking advantage of the fresh greens and soft conditions to go low. If you’re attending, Thursday is a great day to follow a marquee group up close before the biggest crowds arrive. And don’t forget: hospitality zones and concessions open at 11 a.m., so you can grab lunch and a local craft beer while watching the afternoon wave.
- Friday, June 27 – Round 2 (Folds of Honor Friday): As the field is cut to the low 65 and ties by day’s end, Friday adds a patriotic touch. It’s designated “Folds of Honor Friday,” spotlighting the Folds of Honor organization which provides scholarships to families of fallen and disabled service members. Military members and first responders receive free tickets on Friday as a thank you for their service. In addition, the Rocket Classic is funding 13 new Folds of Honor scholarships this year – a meaningful local impact. Fans are encouraged to wear red, white, and blue on Friday, so expect a sea of Stars and Stripes around the course. A moving National Anthem ceremony is planned during play, bringing all spectators together for a moment of unity. On the competitive side, Round 2 kicks off slightly earlier – gates open at 6:20 a.m., with shuttles from 5:50 a.m. onward. Players will again go off both tees in the morning. By evening, the cut will be made, and the field will be narrowed for the weekend. Friday is often one of the most exciting days to walk the course: you’ll see players battling to make the cut, some taking aggressive risks on DGC’s risk-reward par 5s and short par 4s to secure their spot. The atmosphere will be both festive and a bit tense – a wonderful mix for fans.
- Saturday, June 28 – Round 3 (Collegiate Day): The weekend arrives with Moving Day on Saturday, when contenders jostle for position. Saturday has a fun theme too: “Collegiate Day.” This is your excuse to break out that old college sweatshirt or wear your school colors proudly. Fans throughout the gallery will be representing their favorite colleges – expect to see plenty of maize and blue (University of Michigan), green and white (Michigan State), and more. In fact, anyone who shows a valid .edu student email can get 31.3% off their ticket for the day – a clever nod to Detroit’s “313” area code. So, it’s a budget-friendly day for college students and alumni to come enjoy the party. Gates open at 7:15 a.m. on Saturday, a bit later than the workweek rounds, since fewer players remain. All tee times will start from the 1st tee (no split-tee start) in twosomes, and typically play begins around 8:50 a.m. after the cut. With fewer groups on course, it’s easier to camp out in one spot and watch everyone come through. (Insider tip: find a spot around Area 313 – the stretch of holes 14, 15, 16 – for a chance to see eagles or aces and enjoy the fan attractions there, more on that below.) By Saturday afternoon, the tournament picture will crystallize as leaders emerge. The vibe is lively but slightly more relaxed than Sunday, making it a great day to bring the family. Plus, you might snag some unique swag – Detroit-based apparel brand Greyson Clothiers is doing a limited-edition hat drop on Collegiate Day for the occasion.
- Sunday, June 29 – Final Round and Trophy Ceremony: Championship Sunday at the Rocket Classic! Gates open at 7:15 a.m. again, with the first tee time around 8:00–8:30 a.m. for the players at the bottom of the leaderboard. The leaders will tee off last, usually around 2:00 p.m., ensuring an early evening finish. All eyes will be on the contenders as they make the turn onto the back nine – Detroit Golf Club’s closing stretch (holes 14-18) has produced some serious drama in past editions. Remember the roars when Cam Davis drained an eagle in the playoff, or when Rickie Fowler fired a dart at 18 to clinch his win? We could be in for something similar. As the afternoon unfolds, find a spot around the 18th green or along the fairway ropes of the final holes to catch the climax. The trophy presentation will take place on the 18th green shortly after the last putt drops, crowning the 2025 Rocket Classic champion in front of the Detroit fans. It’s always a joyful scene, with the winner often praising the city and the crowd for their support. Sunday is a day of high stakes and high emotions – the perfect capstone to an incredible week.
Note on timing: If you’re attending, be aware that shuttle service to the course runs until about 8:00 p.m. on tournament days (Thurs-Sun), so you’ll have a ride back even if play goes long or you stay for the trophy ceremony. Just plan to arrive early if you want a prime viewing spot, especially on the weekend – Detroit sports fans are known to show up en masse when something big is on the line!
Looking for other ways to explore Detroit this summer? Check out some of the best things to do in Metro Detroit this July
Tickets, Admission and Parking Guide
Attending the Rocket Classic is straightforward, but it helps to know the details in advance. Here’s your guide to getting in and getting around:
- Ticket Options: Tickets are available online at RocketClassic.com (mobile entry only, no printed tickets). Grounds passes start at $65 for a single day (Thursday through Sunday). These give you general admission access to walk the course and public fan areas. If you’re looking for an upgraded experience, there are hospitality tickets like the LendingTree Lounge or Club Ace, which provide pavilion access, elevated views, and included food/drink (those start around $120 and up). For Wednesday’s Community Day and even the Monday/Tuesday practice rounds, admission is free to all – a fantastic value if you just want a taste of the action early in the week.
- Family-Friendly Perks: The Rocket Classic makes it easy (and affordable) to bring the kids. Children 15 and under get in free with a ticketed adult on any day, Wednesday through Sunday (limit four kids per adult). That means a family of five could attend and only pay for the parents’ tickets – a huge draw for local families looking for a fun day out. Note that if you opt for hospitality venues, children 3 and older will need their own hospitality ticket to enter those private areas, but general grounds access remains free for kids with an adult. Strollers are allowed on site, and you’ll see plenty of young future golfers in tow, especially on the weekend.
- Student Discount: New this year, college students can enjoy a special deal. In a tribute to Detroit’s famed 313 area code, students with a valid .edu email can purchase tickets at 31.3% off the regular price. This discount applies Thursday through Sunday for grounds passes. It’s a smart way to encourage younger fans to come out – and indeed you’ll see many interns, summer students, and recent grads mingling in their school colors (especially on Collegiate Day Saturday). To use the discount, you typically enter your .edu email during online checkout, and the system applies the 31.3% off automatically.
- How to Get There – Parking: Parking near the Detroit Golf Club is limited to designated lots with shuttle service, so plan ahead. Here’s the breakdown:
- Thursday–Sunday Parking: Attendees must park at Wayne State University’s Parking Structure 5, located at 5501 Anthony Wayne Dr. in Midtown, and take a shuttle to the golf course. You can purchase parking passes online in advance (highly recommended, as spots can sell out). Prices vary by day; for example, a Thursday parking pass cost about $26, and Friday through Sunday were around $31 each, per vehicle. Upon arrival at the WSU structure, you’ll see clearly marked shuttle pickup points. Shuttles run frequently, roughly every 5-10 minutes, starting early each morning (before gates open) and continuing through the evening. Tip: The shuttle ride is short – DGC is only a few miles north of Midtown – but allow extra time for potential traffic or crowds, especially on the weekend.
- ADA Parking: Guests with disabilities can park at University of Detroit Mercy (UDM) on tournament days (even after Wednesday) in a designated ADA lot. No advance reservation is required for ADA parking; just display your valid handicap placard (with matching ID) for access. ADA shuttles will transport fans with mobility needs directly to the course as well.
- Rideshare Drop-off: Using Uber or Lyft or getting dropped off? There is a dedicated rideshare zone at the Palmer Park Community Building (1121 Merrill Plaisance St.), just around the corner from the golf course. All rideshare vehicles are directed there, and from that drop-off point it’s a short walk to the main entrance gate. This is a convenient option if you don’t want to worry about parking at all – just expect some traffic near Palmer Park during peak arrival and departure times.
- Entry Policies: Remember that all tickets are mobile – you’ll need your phone (or mobile wallet) to scan in. There is no re-entry if you leave the grounds, so plan to stay for the day or until you’re sure you’re done; once you exit, you can’t come back in on the same ticket. Standard PGA Tour security protocols are in place: bags must be small (6” x 6” or smaller, or clear plastic up to 12”), and certain items (coolers, outside alcohol, etc.) are prohibited. It’s wise to check the Rocket Classic’s official website for a full list of allowed and prohibited items before you go. Generally, think stadium rules – small bags, personal cameras/phones are okay (just silence that shutter during swings!), no large backpacks, and no weapons or large umbrellas. Comfort items like sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and comfy shoes are a must, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking on what could be a warm June day.
Fan Experience: Food, Fun and Detroit Flair on the Course
One thing longtime attendees will tell you: the Rocket Classic is as much a festival as it is a golf tournament. Organizers have gone above and beyond to create fun zones and local flavor all around Detroit Golf Club, ensuring even casual fans have a great time. Here’s a taste of what you can expect on the grounds:
A young fan receives a PGA pro’s autograph during Rocket Classic events at Detroit Golf Club. Local families turn out in force for this tournament, which goes the extra mile to be welcoming. From kids’ clinics to autograph zones, the vibe is family-friendly and community-focused. You’ll see kids gathering eagerly near the autograph zone (typically by the practice putting green and 18th scoring area) hoping to snag a signature from the stars. Don’t be shy – many players, especially after their rounds, will stop to sign items and chat. It’s not unusual to see a young junior golfer grinning ear to ear after meeting one of their heroes. The Rocket Classic also partners with youth programs like The First Tee, emphasizing growing the game in the city. For many Detroit youngsters, this event is their first taste of live professional golf – and it’s hard to beat seeing it in your own backyard.
Aside from the golf itself, there’s plenty to do and explore between watching groups:
- Signature Viewing Spots: Check out the Sundial Clubhouse Lawn for a relaxed picnic-like atmosphere with a front-row view of the practice putting green and 2nd hole. It’s near the clubhouse and close to food vendors. For a more elevated view, literally, head to The Treehouse, an open-to-all viewing deck built around one of the old trees between holes 1, 5, and 7. From up there, you can see multiple holes at once while enjoying a breeze – plus there’s a full concession menu available, so it’s a perfect meetup spot for friends.
- AREA 313 Village & Grove: A nod to Detroit’s “313” area code, Area 313 has become the tournament’s epicenter of excitement. This year, the AREA 313 Village presented by AlumniFi is buzzing with interactive sponsor activations and a giant LED video screen that broadcasts the live TV feed of the tournament. It’s like a mini fan festival – you can test your swing at a simulator, take fun photos, and learn about Rocket’s charitable initiatives in the city. Adjacent to the village is AREA 313 Grove, which is part hangout, part party zone. Each afternoon around 3–5 p.m., the Grove hosts a Happy Hour with specialty cocktails (including the local favorite Elijah Craig Bourbon at a pop-up bar) and giveaways from Detroit companies like DTE Energy. The Grove also features the Rocket Mortgage Fan Experience tent – worth visiting to play some golf-themed games and even design your “dream home” virtually, which nods to Rocket’s real estate ties. By creating a lively social atmosphere in Area 313, the tournament ensures that even if you’re not a hardcore golf fan, you’ll have a blast soaking up the scene.
- Tasty Local Bites and Sips: You won’t go hungry at the Rocket Classic. One highlight is Smokey G’s Smokehouse, a popular Detroit barbecue outpost that sets up in Area 313 Grove. Follow the mouth-watering scent of smoked brisket and you’ll find their stand serving up some of the best BBQ in town – a perfect lunch while on the course. For a refreshing drink, track down the Lucky One Lemonade cart, a new venture by Barstool’s Dave Portnoy and local partner Miss Peaches. They’re roaming the course with a mobile beverage cart, pouring “Lucky One Vodka Lemonade” – a summery treat for the 21+ crowd that’s quickly becoming a fan favorite. Of course, you’ll also find the usual suspects: big concession tents with burgers, hot dogs, ice cream, and Michigan craft beers (yes, you can sip a cold Bell’s or Founders while watching the action). The High Noon Sun Deck is another cool 21+ spot overlooking the 17th green, where you can enjoy a canned cocktail or beer with a great view.
- Merch and Swag: Don’t leave without a souvenir. The Rocket Classic Fan Shop near the entrance sells tournament-branded gear you can’t get anywhere else – from polos and hats to fun t-shirts that blend golf with Detroit pride. Each year’s collection has unique designs (for example, 2025’s merch celebrates 125 years of Detroit Golf Club history alongside the Rocket Classic logo). Also on site is the Greyson Wolf Den pop-up shop, featuring trendy golf apparel from Greyson Clothiers, a brand co-founded by a Detroit-native that’s been a big hit on Tour. The styles have a modern Detroit flair, so even non-golfers find something cool. Be sure to snag whatever catches your eye – by Sunday evening, the merchandise tent is often picked clean.
All these extras make the Rocket Classic more than just a sports event – it’s a community gathering. You’ll run into neighbors, co-workers, and old friends out on the course, and maybe make some new ones while cheering on a great shot. The tournament has a friendly, carnival-like atmosphere that feels distinctively Detroit: upbeat, unpretentious, and full of local pride.
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Detroit Golf Club, Facebook
Why the Rocket Classic Matters to Detroit
In only seven years, the Rocket Classic has become a centerpiece of Detroit’s summer calendar. It’s not just about the birdies and bogeys – it’s about what the event represents for the city and its people:
- Shining a Positive Spotlight: Detroit hasn’t hosted a PGA Tour event in decades prior to Rocket (the last was in the 2000s in the suburbs). Bringing the Tour back inside the city limits has been a point of pride. Each year, TV broadcasts show off the beautiful tree-lined course and the skyline of the Motor City beyond, helping to reshape outsiders’ perceptions of Detroit. As local qualifier Joe Hooks put it, the tournament “sheds light on how beautiful our city is” and shows skeptics “how wrong people are about the city of Detroit if you haven't been here.” It’s a chance for Detroiters to counter the negative stereotypes with an undeniably world-class event in our own backyard.
- Community and Charity Focus: From day one, Rocket Mortgage (part of Dan Gilbert’s Detroit-based Rocket Companies) has emphasized that this tournament is about giving back to the community as much as it is about golf. The event is organized by the Rocket Giving Fund, with proceeds supporting local nonprofits, especially those focused on bridging the digital divide in Detroit neighborhoods. In 2023, for example, the Classic raised over $1.5 million for charity. The Gilberts’ philanthropic vision is at the heart of it – “this isn’t so much about ROI for us… I think about this more as part of our philanthropy,” Rocket Cos. President Bill Emerson has said of sponsoring the event. So when you buy a ticket or a lemonade on-site, you can feel good knowing a portion is helping Detroit communities. The tournament also makes a concerted effort to involve local minority-owned vendors (food, merchandise, services), further spreading the economic benefits.
- Local Business Boost: Having thousands of visitors flock to Detroit Golf Club for a week is a boon to nearby businesses – hotels fill up, restaurants see spikes in reservations, and Detroit’s name gets positive national coverage. Neighborhood spots from Ferndale to downtown see an uptick in patrons sporting tournament badges in the evenings. While we won’t highlight specific real estate insights or attractions here, it’s clear that the Rocket Classic has become a catalyst for showcasing Detroit as a vibrant place to live, work, and play. The hope is that such exposure can translate into long-term interest in the city (for tourism, investment, even new residents). At minimum, it gives metro Detroiters another reason to explore parts of the city they might not visit often – like that new coffee shop on Livernois or a craft brewery in nearby Hazel Park, after a day at the course.
- Future of the Tournament: Many locals are already asking – will the Rocket Classic continue to be a Detroit tradition for years to come? The current sponsorship deal with Rocket Companies runs through the 2026 tournament, with an option for 2027. While nothing official has been announced yet, signs are hopeful. PGA Tour executives have been highly complimentary of Detroit’s support and the event’s growth. “Everything I’ve experienced in just a couple days here, it’s been great. It’s been positive,” said new PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp during tournament week, sounding optimistic about keeping Detroit on the schedule. And popular players like Rickie Fowler (who has deep ties to Rocket) have expressed that “there’d be a lot of disappointed people” if the event doesn’t continue long-term. The truth is, the Rocket Classic has quickly woven itself into the fabric of Detroit summers – it’s hard to imagine June without it. For now, fans can relish the present and know that their enthusiastic turnout only helps solidify the tournament’s future. Detroit has proven it can host a top-tier sporting event as well as any city, and the community clearly cherishes having the PGA Tour in town.
How to Follow the Action (TV, Streaming & More)
If you can’t make it to the course – or want to keep up even while you’re there – rest assured the Rocket Classic will be well-covered on air and online. Here’s how to watch and follow:
- Television Coverage: National TV broadcasts will showcase the Rocket Classic each day:
- Thursday & Friday (Rounds 1-2): Golf Channel will air live coverage from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. ET on both Thursday and Friday. Earlier action can be followed via streaming (more on that below).
- Saturday & Sunday (Rounds 3-4): Golf Channel kicks off coverage from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. ET each weekend day, after which the broadcast shifts to CBS for the peak afternoon finish from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. ET. CBS’s coverage on Saturday and Sunday will capture all the drama of the closing holes and the trophy ceremony. So if you’re channel surfing, remember: early afternoon Golf Channel, later afternoon CBS.
- Streaming (PGA Tour Live on ESPN+): For die-hard fans who don’t want to miss a shot, PGA Tour Live on ESPN+ is the way to go. The streaming service will have all-day coverage each day of the tournament, including multiple feeds. You can typically watch a “Featured Groups” stream following marquee players from the first tee onward, a “Featured Holes” stream (often showcasing the most exciting stretch like holes 14-16 in Detroit), and more. ESPN+ coverage usually begins early in the morning (around 7 a.m. or whenever the first tee time is) and runs until the end of play. This is perfect for keeping up with local favorites or specific players not always shown on the TV broadcast. Subscriptions to ESPN+ are required, but many golf fans find it well worth it for the extensive coverage.
- Local News and Highlights: As a big event for the city, Detroit media will be providing plenty of Rocket Classic content. WXYZ Channel 7 (the local ABC affiliate) is an official partner and aired special programs like “Teeing It Up in the D” during the week. Keep an eye on the nightly newscasts on Channels 4, 7, and 2 for highlights and human-interest stories (you might catch a segment on Joe Hooks or the course renovations). Sports radio 97.1 FM will likely discuss tournament results each day as well. And of course, the tournament’s official social media accounts (Twitter, Instagram, Facebook) will share real-time updates, awesome shots, and behind-the-scenes looks. If you’re on the course, you can even participate by tagging your photos with #RocketClassic – you might get featured on the big video board!
- Scoring and Mobile App: For those at the event or following along shot-by-shot, the PGA Tour app and website will have live leaderboards and shot tracking. There’s also a Rocket Classic specific app/section that includes an interactive course map, schedule of events, and other spectator info. Pro tip: if you’re on site, use the app’s “Player Locator” feature to find where your favorite player is on the course at any moment, so you can catch up to them or know when they’re coming to a hole near you.
Whether you watch on TV, stream online, or experience it in person, you’ll be in for a treat – the production quality and excitement around the Rocket Classic have grown each year. Nothing beats the roar of the crowd on a Sunday at 18, but the next best thing is hearing it through your TV speakers as another birdie putt drops.
Join the Rocket Classic Celebration
The Rocket Classic has firmly established itself as more than just a golf tournament – it’s a celebration of Detroit’s resilience, hospitality, and knack for putting on a show. From the historic fairways of Detroit Golf Club to the lively fan zones filled with local flavor, the event captures what makes this area special. It’s at once world-class and warmly local. Where else can you see major champions competing at the highest level, then grab some Detroit barbeque, chat with neighbors, and maybe even high-five a mascot (yes, you might spot PAWS from the Tigers or other Detroit sports mascots roaming the grounds) all in the same day?
If you’re a Metro Detroit local, the Rocket Classic is a reminder of the great things happening right here at home. And if you’re from out of town, we welcome you with open arms to experience our city’s resurgence firsthand – consider this your invitation to come back soon. As a lifelong Michigander might tell you, events like this are a point of pride, and we love sharing that pride with visitors.
So what’s next? If you haven’t already, make plans to attend the Rocket Classic this weekend – even if only for a day. Bring the kids, bring a friend who’s never been to a golf tournament, or come solo and soak it all in. You can purchase tickets online or even at the gate (digital payment) if it’s a last-minute decision. Trust us, you won’t regret spending a summer day under the oaks and elms of DGC, watching some incredible golf and enjoying the scene. And if you have questions about the event, the area, or anything Detroit, don’t hesitate to reach out to local experts – whether it’s the tournament’s info line or your friendly neighborhood Metro Detroit real estate pro who knows the ins and outs of this town. We’re here to help you make the most of our community’s offerings.
Finally, as the final putt drops and the champion hoists the trophy on Sunday, take a moment to appreciate what it represents: Detroit continuing to write its comeback story, one successful event at a time. The Rocket Classic has quickly become a cherished chapter in that story. So let’s celebrate it, support it, and keep it going for years to come.
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