New Winter Tee on the First

I am sure that if you have been to the Club lately, you will have noticed that there is a new tee box being constructed on the first which will have an artificial surface and therefore it can be used throughout the winter months and will protect the existing tees in periods of the worst weather. A number of members have commented that the position of the box changes the characteristics of the hole and makes it into a slight dogleg. The comments (a nice word for complaints) is that they will not be able to use their driver off the tee. My answer was to remind them that one of the principles of golf is 'to play the course as you find it' and this is most apt in the winter months. It may not be ideal, it may not suit your game, it may disadvantage you more than others, but it is done with the best intent ... to ensure the course is in the best possible condition for the beginning of the new season.