Time truly flies—by the time this reaches you, I will have completed three full months here at Diablo! It’s been an exciting and engaging start, and I’ve enjoyed every moment of getting to know the Club, its members, and the vibrant community we share.
One of the highlights has been participating in bocce, both on the staff team—Rolling on The Rocks, and with a member team—That’s The Way We Roll! It’s been a great way to connect with many of you, hear your feedback, and learn what’s working well and where we can improve. Whether through events or simply walking around the Club and introducing myself, I’m committed to building relationships and learning every name—though I still have a way to go!
Over the past few months, I’ve attended every committee meeting, actively participated in discussions, and made decisions to help move the Club forward. I’ve also had the pleasure of experiencing a wide range of Club events, including the Gold Putter, DWGG Invitational, Senior Men Home, Niners Special Guest Day, Family Campout, two special Brunches, Ladies Tennis Invitational, Wine Dinner at Watson’s Vista, Duckhorn Wine Dinner, Wine Sale, Men’s Club Championship, DWGG Club Championship, and Junior Club Championship.
Each event has provided valuable insights, and I’ve taken detailed notes to help us enhance future experiences. We’ve also introduced quick post-event surveys to gather your feedback, thank you to everyone who has taken the time to respond. Your input is essential in helping us improve and innovate.
Looking ahead, we have a fantastic lineup of fall events, followed by the holiday season. I’m
especially excited about our new Tree Lighting Event and Family Dinner on November 30, along with our traditional holiday celebrations. I hope to meet many more of you during these festive gatherings!
On the operational side, I’ve been involved in the budgeting process for both Operations and Capital. I’m pleased to report that we’ve prepared a balanced budget for review and approval by the Finance Committee and Board. As we enter our second full year of post-renovation, we continue to fine-tune operations to exceed your expectations.
Our Culinary Team, led by the Chef Andy, is doing an outstanding job with food quality and creativity. A new menu will be launching soon, and we’re excited to share it with you. Additionally, our Food & Beverage service team recently completed a one-day training session to sharpen service skills and deepen their understanding of Club operations.
As the fiscal and board year concludes in midNovember, we prepare to welcome a new governance cycle. Please mark your calendar for the Annual Meeting on November 16, at 4:00pm here at the Club. Your participation is important, and I look forward to seeing you there.
Thank you for the warm welcome and continued support. I look forward to seeing you around the Club!
Warm regards,
GREG GONSALVES,CCM General Manager/COO
Greg Gonsalves
NEW MEMBERS Welcome
MARK & DIANA BURNSIDES Clubhouse
WRIGHT & CATHY LASSITER Regular Proprietary
MITCH DIRAIMONDO
Young Professional Executive
MARCUS SYLVA
Young Professional Executive
NOT PICTURED
JOHN & ANNE SMITH Clubhouse
FREDRIK & ANETTE ENGELHARDT Regular Proprietary
DR. NEAL WHITE & BERNADETTE MAHAN Clubhouse
DWGG Holiday Party
Thursday, December 4
Holiday Golf Cart Parade
Friday, December 5
Niners Champagne
Holiday Party & Lunch
Tuesday, December 9
Tennis Holiday Cheer Mixer
Friday, December 12
Annual Children's
Christmas Party
Saturday, December 13
Christmas Eve
Wednesday, December 24
Christmas Day
Thursday, December 25
New Years Eve
Wednesday, December 31
CLUB, COURSE & SNACK SHACK HOURS
Christmas Eve
Closed at 3:00pm
Christmas Day Closed
New Years Eve Closed at 3:00pm
HISTORY
Stuart Hawley, Jr. was born into this world on December 20, 1911. His formative years were marked by warm summers spent at the family home his grandfather built in Diablo in 1923. Surrounded by this family-oriented community and the idyllic landscapes of Mt. Diablo Country Club, Stuart was drawn to golf from an early age. He learned the game under the guidance of John Smith, who was not only a club professional but also the father and teacher of future PGA Hall of Fame members Alex and Macdonald Smith.
Nurtured by this mentorship in the manicured environment of Diablo, Stuart’s talent blossomed. He attended Stanford University, where he excelled as a top player for the Indians, now Cardinal golf team from 1932 through 1934. The same year as his collegiate graduation, Stuart achieved a crowning accomplishment—earning medalist honors, and winning the 1934 California Amateur Championship at Pebble Beach, a highly respected title in the state’s golfing circles to this day.
Later that year, Stuart’s reputation was further elevated when he partnered with Bobby Jones in a memorable charity match at San Francisco Golf Club. Together, Hawley and Jones triumphed over Lawson Little, Jr. and Ernie Piper, an event that drew excited crowds and demonstrated Stuart’s stature amongst golf’s elite. In 1937, he founded and chaired the Oakland Open, a tournament that both Sam Snead and Ben Hogan credited with launching their careers. Returning each summer to Diablo, Stuart remained an integral figure at the Club, building friendships and
FREEDOM IS NEVER FREE
competing at a high level. In 1939, he captured the Diablo Country Club Championship and in 1940, he tied the course record of 65 held first by Macdonald Smith.
When the world was soon engulfed by the turmoil of World War II, Stuart answered the call of duty, serving as a lieutenant in the United States Navy. "Boot Camp" in Arizona was quickly followed by special Naval training in communications at Harvard. His leadership on the golf links translated well to the bridge of a ship. Tragically, on April 12, 1945, Stuart Hawley, Jr. lost his life when a suicide pilot struck the signal bridge of his vessel in the Pacific, the USS Tennessee. He left behind two sons, one daughter and his bride, who was carrying their fourth child.
In 2014, his son Steven, a son he sadly never met, honored the memory of his father and the club that meant so much to their family by donating Stuart’s 1939 Diablo Club Championship trophy to Diablo Country Club. This heartfelt gesture celebrated not only the achievements of Stuart Hawley, Jr. but also the club’s enduring tradition of honoring its champions and history, in the hope that these stories may inspire generations to come.
With deep appreciation to Stuart Hawley, Jr., an American hero.
David Mackesey
DAVID MACKESEY,
Diablo Country Club Historian
Stuart Hawley, Jr., Ernie Piper, Bobby Jones and Lawson Little, Jr.
Stuart Hawley, Jr. memorabilia in the Diablo Country Club trophy case.
EMPLOYEES OF THE MONTH
EMPLOYEES OF THE MONTH ANSWERED OUR QUESTIONS:
How does it feel being awarded Employee of the Month ? 1.
2. What is your favorite part about working at Diablo?
ELSA FUNSTON | Merchandiser, Golf (Since 2022) | July Winner
The employee of the month award was great, knowing that I was voted by my peers. I am so used to keeping my head down and getting the job done, that sometimes we all need to toot our own horn. Truth is, we all want to get recognized for the jobs we do well or just the little things we do that no one sees in helping the departments achieve their goals.
Working at Diablo has been a positive experience for me. I came here with many years of retail and customer service experience which transitioned into merchandiser/buyer position. The management team at Diablo are great and I love the fact that Diablo does a lot for the employees such as BBQ, employee golf days, holiday events, employee bocce team, and every month celebrating birthdays! Many years ago, I had a manager say this to all the new hires “leave your attitude at the employee entrance and pick it up on the way out!”
NOAH SMITH | Server F&B (Since 2004) | July Winner
It feels amazing to be recognized for giving great service to our members. I am very grateful to be recognized for the first time ever in my life. | Being able to come to work every day with a happy mindset knowing I am coming to work for great members and alongside amazing staff.
SHAWN SALING | Golf Pro (Since 2019) | August Winner
It feels great being recognized, it means a lot to know all the hard work makes a difference in the experience of our members and I’d like to share that recognition with all our staff who go above and beyond every day. I share this with all of you. My favorite parts of working at Diablo are the relationships that I’m lucky enough to foster, both with my fellow employees and members alike. The sense of family and community make it all meaningful. It’s those relationships that have led to so much support in charitable endeavors we have undertaken, like supporting Youth On Course through the 100 Hole Hike and the Nephrotic Syndrome Foundation. Thank you to everyone in the Diablo community for all your support.
SHIVA HESS | Yoga Instructor (Since 2024) | August Winner
I feel honored to be chosen as Employee of the Month alongside Shawn. I appreciate the opportunity to contribute and to build with such a wonderful team.
I am thankful to work with such supportive and inspiring colleagues, and being recognized this month is very meaningful to me. I look forward to continuing growing together. Love being a part of the Diablo Family.
FROM THE DIRECTOR OF EVENTS
Happy Holidays, Diablo Country Club Members!
As the holiday season approaches, I want to extend my warmest wishes to you and your families. My focus has been on fine-tuning our upcoming events while also planning well into the future. I'm excited to share some of our special holiday offerings and updates with you.
Upcoming Holiday Events
This season, we've planned a lineup of events designed to bring our community together. Register now for our Children's Halloween Party , which is sure to fright and delight! Make room for all the fixin's and get a workout in at our annual Turkey Trot . Continue the tradition with our Tree Lighting and Golf Cart Parade , and look forward to our Children's Christmas Party , which is sure to be the highlight of the season. We're working to make these events truly special for everyone.
Club Improvements & Member Feedback
Your feedback is invaluable, and we're always looking for ways to improve the Club experience. We are currently working on a few enhancements
event surveys to ensure we are receiving valuable feedback to continue to improve.
Join Our Events Committee
To ensure our events continue to meet your expectations, I'm curating an Events Committee . This will be a group of dedicated members who can help me brainstorm new ideas, provide feedback, and help make our events even better. If you're interested in being a part of this team and helping shape the future of our Club's social calendar, please email me at your earliest convenience.
I'm looking forward to a wonderful holiday season with all of you, and as always, my door is open.
Cheers,
JENNA M c CLELLAND, Director of Events
QUESTIONS?
Please contact me at jennam@diablocc.org
FROM THE EXECUTIVE CHEF
Welcome to Fall! I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to all of you for your continued support of our culinary program here at Diablo Country Club.
Special thanks to those who joined us for the Embers and Elegance Dinner at Watson’s Vista, what a memorable evening! The energy, conversation, and shared plates were truly special. As always, our kitchen team remains committed to making Diablo your favorite culinary destination—one that creates personal, lasting memories every time you dine with us.
October Events You Won’t Want to Miss Fall brings a full calendar of culinary fun! Mark your calendars for these upcoming events:
∙ Chef’s Table ‒ Thursday, October 16
An intimate, multi-course tasting experience curated by our culinary team. Throughout the evening, we will share our inspiration and stories behind each dish bringing you closer to the artistry of the kitchen. Don't miss this unique and memorable dining journey.
∙ Children’s Halloween Party
Saturday, October 25
Spooky snacks, sweet treats, and festive fun for the little ones! Expect imaginative presentations, festive decor, and a night filled with both elegance and enchantment.
Reservations recommended.
Food Focus of the Month: Rooted in Flavor
October is all about comfort and depth, and we’re bringing seasonal harvest flavors to life in new and exciting ways. Look forward to delicious dishes featuring:
∙ Roasted Hot Honey Sweet Potato Salad
∙ Sunchokes with Bagna Cauda
∙ Celery Root Gratin
These will complement exciting new dishes debuting on the Red Horse menu this month.
Ingredient Spotlight: California Grapes
Did you know? California grapes are in peak season from May through January, with the harvest moving through Coachella to the San Joaquin Valley. We're incorporating several varieties into our dishes and desserts while the season is at its best.
Chef Katia’s Seasonal Delights
We continue to receive glowing feedback on Chef Katia’s creative and thoughtful specials. Her attention to flavor, texture, and seasonal ingredients makes every dish stand out.
This month, she’s embracing the beautiful transition into late fall with desserts like:
∙ Sticky Persimmon Toffee Cake
∙ Persimmon Crème Brûlée
∙ Grapefruit Vanilla Shortbread with Tangerine Gelato
If you haven’t tried her monthly and daily specials—now’s the time!
We’re Just Getting Started
As the weather cools and the colors shift, our goal remains the same: to bring you exciting seasonal menus, family-friendly events, and unforgettable dining experiences.
Thank you for being such an integral part of the Diablo culinary journey. We can’t wait to welcome you back to the table all season long.
Warm Regards,
ANDY ARNDT, Executive Chef
& Katia KATIA QUIJADA, Pastry Chef
SEPTEMBER 13-14, 2024
Congratulations
HOLES-IN-ONE
GALE GIBBONS
FOURTH HOLE-IN-ONE
Gale hit a 7 hybrid from the I tees on the 3RD hole.
KEVIN WATERS
FOURTH HOLE-IN-ONE
Kevin carded his ace on the 6TH hole from the IV tees with a 6 iron.
BECKY BATES
FIRST HOLE-IN-ONE
Becky carded her ace on the 8TH hole from the I tees with an iron.
HANK SALVO
FIRST HOLE-IN-ONE
Hank carded his ace on the 16TH hole from the III tees with a 6 iron.
FROM THE HEAD GOLF PROFESSIONAL
Tournament season is almost over, but there is still plenty of golf to be played. The weather is perfect, and the golf course is firm and fast—amazing conditions that we all look for here at Diablo Country Club!
We had a fantastic September with both the Gold Putter and Women’s Classic Invitational played in a two-week span. The weather cooperated, and with 216 men and 108 women playing, the golf was fantastic. Edward Brown and his guest Kevin Bayly earned their way into the horserace by finishing second in their flight, then proceeded to advance to the 18TH and final hole. Kevin blasted a drive but ended up on the bark, where Edward then picked clean onto the middle of the green. They two-putted from there and held off the father/son teams of Jason and Taylor Lee and Michael and Grant Stedman to win the Gold Putter.
The Women’s Classic Invitational had much of the same competition, with a two-day eclectic format. Day one had tough pins and fast greens, but in the eclectic format, everyone fared much better on day two, with some improving their team score by up to 20 shots! The team of Cheryl Burleigh, Bev Cabellon, Mary Miller & Shirley Lowes finished with a fantastic day two to take the overall low net, while the team of Julie Bai, Priya Fay, Diane Ross & Lily Weng captured the overall low gross competition.
With the Club Championships on the horizon, and of course the Ryder Cup, it is always a good time to talk about how to play golf under pressure. Can you imagine standing on the first tee of a golf course with 100,000 fans screaming at you? Then you have to tee the ball up and smash it down the fairway— sounds difficult! The one thing that they all have in common is a pre-shot routine that they fall back on, trying not to think about the pressure.
Here are some questions to ask yourself:
∙ Do you have a pre-shot routine?
∙ Do you do exactly the same thing every single time?
∙ Does it take the same amount of time?
Everyone should have a pre-shot routine, and all of ours are going to be very individual. Think about what works for you. Do your routine, step up to the ball, and then fire away. The less you think about the situation, the better you will be!
Play well, have fun, and remember—golf is hard!
DAVID SOLOMON, PGA Head Golf Professional
Edward Brown
2025 Gold Putter Champions ‒ Edward Brown & Kevin Bayly
Kevin Bayly (guest)
SENIOR SEASON IS ROLLING ALONG
The 2025 Senior Golf Season is nearly complete! We have played in 20 home and away events, and only 2 regular season events and the Pop Smith Senior Invitational (October 9–10) remain. Nearly 50 different players have participated in at least one of our events this year.
Senior of the Year Standings
Our top ten points winners so far, all with 25 points or more, include:
Joe Buenavista, Bob Hagerty, Gary Ryness, Bruce Kroyer, Dave Yarnold, Brian Magstadt, Ron Bredehoft, Jim Pasichuke, Rick Steffens, and Bill Houston
Points are still up for grabs in the final three events of the season, so sign up for as many as you can. The top 8 points winners after the Finale event on October 15 will compete for Senior of the Year honors in an 8-man horse race.
Bonus points aren’t just for participation—they are awarded for competitive performance as well.
Players earn extra points for first, second, or third place finishes, and an additional point for closest to the pin
Top Money Winners
With good performance comes rewards! So far, our top 11 money winners of 2025 are:
Joe Buenavista, Bruce Kroyer, Jim Pasichuke, Bob Hagerty, Mark Nittler, Mike Barenberg, Tony Abramo, Terry Spraker, Brian Magstadt, Dave Yarnold, and Gary Ryness
Pop Smith Invitational
It’s time to line up your partner for our “Pop Smith New Format” Invitational in October. This 2-day best ball of partners tournament (with a Horse Race at the end) is open to ALL Diablo Members. Participants can compete in one of two divisions based on combined age: over 100 or under 100. Whether you struck it rich in the Gold Putter or not, this is another chance to make your mark in Diablo history!
Terry Spraker and Joe Buenavista
Dean McElroy, Jim Hillman, and Brad Omick
EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES GOLF
SENIOR GOLF NEWS
Top Money Winners the Finale Event
Our final 2025 senior event, the Finale, will be held on October 15. The top 3 teams in each flight will receive handsome credit book prizes. All food and beverages for the event are covered by your senior golf fee, so the only cost to participate is your cart fee. Awards and prizes will be presented during a special lunch at the snack shack, in preparation for the Senior of the Year horserace to follow.
Gary Ryness
GARY RYNESS, Senior Captain
Joe Buenavista
Bob Hagerty
Bill Bishop
Ron Bredehoft
Bruce Kroyer
Brian Magstadt
Jim Pasichuke
DIABLO NINERS NEWS
Welcome Our New General Manager!
Be sure to welcome our new General Manager, Greg Gonsalves Under his leadership, we anticipate continued growth and success for Diablo.
Try the USGA GHIN App
To easily check your handicap index, download the USGA GHIN app. This app allows you to keep score hole-by-hole and post your scores directly from your phone. Remember to post your scores! This is essential for proper matching in tournament play. You may be eligible to have a few strokes or "pops" taken off your score depending on your handicap index!
Upcoming Niner Events
∙ Play the 'Hay" Carmel Getaway Day (Travel to Carmel with the 9ers!)
Tuesday, October 21
∙ DWGG & Niner Halloween Shotgun and Luncheon Thursday, October 30
∙ Play with Blackhawk Guests (8 Hosts Needed) Tuesday, November 4
∙ Thankful for Our Guest (Bring Your Guest) Tuesday, November 18
∙ Holiday Luncheon (Holiday attire suggested!) Tuesday, December 9
EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES GOLF
DWGG NEWS
CAPTAINS’ TOURNAMENT
Honoring Leadership, Legacy, & Community
The Diablo Women’s Golf Group gathered for one of its most meaningful traditions—the Captains’ Tournament, held each year to honor DWGG Captains past and present. This year, members came together to celebrate current Captain Sia McDonald, now in her second year of leadership.
Sia shared that she is proud to serve in this role and continues to be inspired by the group’s talent, competitive spirit, camaraderie, and shared love of the game.
Taking a special step away from tradition, event co-chairs Teresa Martinez and Bobbie Valladon thoughtfully incorporated Sia’s favorite charity into the tournament: the Child Abuse Prevention Council of Contra Costa County (CAPC). During lunch, CAPC Director Carol Carillo joined the group to share how CAPC positively impacts families in the community. Thanks to the generosity of DWGG, the event raised $1,500 to support CAPC’s mission.
It was a beautiful day of golf, celebration, and giving back—honoring not only the current captain but also the many captains who came before, each leaving their mark on the strong legacy of women’s golf at Diablo.
CAPTAINS' TOURNAMENT RESULTS
1ST PLACE ‒ Katie Alworth, Caren Steffens, Michelle Indelicato & Carol Santa Maria
2ND PLACE ‒ June Joseph, Lucy Brennan, Cheryl Burleigh & (Blind Draw) Carol Santa Maria
3RD PLACE ‒ Sara Sanders, Debrah Wilson, Rebecca Adams & Alice Schultz
Event Chairs Teresa Martinez & Bobbie Valladon with CAPC Director Carol Carillo and DWGG Captain Sia McDonald
DWGG CLASSIC INVITATIONAL
Saddles, Spurs, and Spectacular Golf
Yeehaw! The DWGG Classic Invitational once again proved why it is the marquee event of the season, bringing together 112 members and guests for two unforgettable days of spirited competition, friendship, and celebration—cowgirl style!
Day one wrapped up with the much-anticipated horserace, always a crowd favorite. Twelve teams battled it out in a nail-biting contest, with the championship decided on the final hole. Congratulations to the winning team of Claudia Tyler, MJ Gordon-Dowd, Kelly Brummitt, and Terry Patton, who sealed their victory with spectacular play on 18.
HORSE RACE RESULTS
1ST PLACE ‒ Claudia Tyler, MJ Gordon-Dowd, Kelly Brummitt & Terry Patton
2ND PLACE ‒ Teresa Martinez, Babette Dunlop, Elizabeth Cornwall & Susan Dagnese
Day Two featured the eclectic format, giving everyone the chance to sharpen their scores and make a final push for the podium. The energy was high, the competition fierce, and the results reflected stellar play across the board.
TOURNAMENT RESULTS
Overall Low Net ‒ Cheryl Burleigh, Bev Cabellon, Mary Miller & Shirley Lowes
Pistols and Pearls ‒ Sandra Myers, Ann Moeller, April Kanyon & Kris McMahon
Whiskey and Wedges ‒ Valerie Nealis, Mary Mills, Jayne Hagenbart & Aly Baker
HORSE RACE FIRST PLACE
HORSE RACE SECOND PLACE
HORSE RACE THIRD PLACE
EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES GOLF
DWGG NEWS
From cowboy hats to sparkling pearls, from booming drives to clutch putts, the Invitational captured everything that makes DWGG special— competitive golf, enduring friendships, and plenty of fun. The celebration continued with the dancing queens lighting up the dance floor to the lively sounds of Midnight Rerun.
This year, the Invitational also proudly supported DWGG’s Charitable Beneficiary for 2025, First Tee Tri Valley. Through the generosity of members and guests, the tournament raised $4,000 to benefit their mission of “Building Game Changers.” By seamlessly integrating the game of golf with character-building, First Tee empowers kids and teens to uncover their inner strength, selfconfidence, and resilience—skills that extend far beyond the game.
A heartfelt thank you to Event Chairs Katie Alworth and Lindsay Walker , who poured countless hours of leadership, creativity, and precision into planning every detail, making this year’s Invitational seamless from start to finish. We also extend our gratitude to Jenna McClelland, Director of Events, whose expert planning and guidance elevated the experience for all.
Guests were treated to delicious meals crafted by Chef Andy and enjoyed superior service from the entire food & beverage team, who went above and beyond to ensure every detail was perfect. Finally, special thanks to the golf staff, led by David Solomon and Shawn Saling , whose expertise and support made the tournament run flawlessly.
The Classic Invitational was, once again, an unforgettable highlight of the DWGG season— proving that when you mix great golf, cowgirl spirit, community generosity, and a shared love of the game, the result is truly spectacular.
First Tee Tri Valley Board Member and DWGG Member Julie Hoyle proudly supporting DWGG’s Charitable Beneficiary for 2025
Event Chairs Katie Alworth & Lindsay Walker
JUNIOR GOLF NEWS
We’ve had an exciting summer at Diablo Country Club, and I’m proud to share some highlights from our junior golf programs!
Junior League Teams
Our Diablo PGA Junior League 13U team had 27 players, and our Diablo PGA Junior League 17U team had 13 players.
This August, our Diablo 13U PGA Jr. League AllStar Team shot an incredible team score of 1 under par to take first place out of 10 teams at The Ridge Golf Course. This victory earned them a spot at the PGA Jr. League NorCal Sectional Championship at Haggin Oaks! We finished in 3RD place at Haggin Oaks, narrowly missing advancement to the next round.
Congratulations to all the players for their outstanding performance.
Junior Golf Membership Growth
Beyond competition, our junior golf community continues to grow and thrive. We currently have 64 junior golf members enrolled across our programs, ranging from our Saturday Prep Program (ages 5–8) all the way up to our Elite+ program for high school golfers.
Current Diablo CC Junior Golf Programs
∙ Elite+ (ages 11–16)
∙ Elite (ages 10–15)
∙ Future Champions (ages 8–9)
∙ Pre-Elite (ages 8–14)
∙ DJGA JV (ages 9–13)
∙ DJGA Prep (ages 5–8)
It’s truly been a joy to watch our juniors learn, grow, and succeed on and off the course this summer. Thank you for your continued support and encouragement, it truly makes a difference.
Register for Upcoming Programs!
Don’t miss out on the next session of our junior golf programs! Spots are filling quickly, so be sure to register your child today to continue their golf journey with Diablo CC. Visit our website or contact the Pro Shop for more information.
QUESTIONS?
JEREMY GREEN, PGA Assistant Golf Professional
Please contact our Director of Instruction, Jim Collins at jimc@diablocc.org
RACQUET SPORTS
EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES
TENNIS & PICKLEBALL NEWS
As your Racquet Sports Director, I always enjoy looking back and sharing the highlights from our courts. August and September were packed with energy, laughter, competition, and memorable moments, here’s the story of the last two months at Diablo.
August Highlights
Fall Pickleball League from day one had contagious energy. Week after week, players have been showing up ready to battle it out, giving their all on court. With Evan and Diana leading the charge, the competition was fierce, but the smiles and sportsmanship have made it even better.
Tennis courts 2 and 3 were resurfaced this month, and the results speak for themselves. Smooth, fresh, and ready for play. I hope everyone has enjoyed hitting on these upgraded courts.
Molly Smiles Pickleball and Tennis Charity Event
What a day! Over 100 players joined us for matches filled with joy and purpose. Between the exciting points, delicious food, drinks, and live music, the atmosphere was unforgettable, all in support of a wonderful cause.
Head Pro Romana organized a special 2.5 Round Robin for our newer players. The courts were alive with laughter and great rallies. It was a fantastic way for our 2.5 group to bond, play, and enjoy a true social mixer.
Coach Ryan organized a Men’s Tennis Mixer against Blackhawk Country Club. Sixteen players battled it out in competitive matches filled with energy and fun. Afterward, players from both Clubs headed to the Court House where Star treated everyone like rock stars, the perfect ending to a memorable day.
RACQUET SPORTS
EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES
September Highlights
Our Member/Guest Tennis Event, themed Revenge of the Nerds, was nothing short of epic. The ladies came dressed to impress in their best college-inspired outfits, and the atmosphere was electric. On the courts, players battled across four brackets for the title, it was an atmosphere of pure joy and competition, a reminder of what makes our racquet sports community here at Diablo so special.
Shoutout to the Revenge of the Nerds Subcommittee
I must take a moment to recognize the amazing Revenge of the Nerds subcommittee Carla Forgham, Veronica Butcher, Holly McMullen, Dana Pingatore, Leslie Wuischpard and Laura Gallagher. Honestly, I feel so lucky to be surrounded by such a passionate group of members who pour their hearts into making our events special. From the theme ideas and décor to the little touches that made everyone smile, you brought this crazy-fun vision to life.
What makes it even better is that we’re not afraid to dress up, lean into the theme, and just let the magic happen. You remind me every day that our racquet sports department is more than just tennis and pickleball, it’s a community fueled by creativity, teamwork, and passion. Without you, our events wouldn’t have the energy, laughter, and magic that make them truly unforgettable.
Thank you for sharing the same love for the game (and the fun that comes with it) that I do. Together, we’ve built something way bigger than just matches on a court, we’ve built memories.
Pickleball Champions at Discovery Bay
We’re excited to share some fantastic news from our pickleball community! On September 13, several of our players competed in the Discovery Bay Pickleball Tournament, and brought home gold medals in their divisions.
A special shoutout to Chanda and Lori, proud Diablo members, for representing our Club with passion and skill. Congratulations to all four players on their amazing performances, you’ve made the Diablo pickleball family proud!
Looking back, August and September were full of passion, connection, and growth across tennis and pickleball. Thank you for bringing your energy to every event, clinic, and match. The courts truly come alive because of you.
Pickleball Drop-Ins
∙ Beginner & Intermediate Tuesdays at 10:00am
∙ Advanced 3.5+ Fridays at 1:00pm
These drop-ins are the perfect chance to get competitive play, meet new people, and improve your game in a fun, social environment. Bring your energy, every week delivers great matchups!
GOLD (2.5–3.0 DIVISION)
GOLD (3.0–3.5 DIVISION)
CHANDA LEGER & CARRY WARNER
LORI WHITE & JACKIE SNYDER
RACQUET SPORTS
EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES
Upcoming Events
Davis Cup
Wednesday, October 8
An event unlike any other! Sign up as an individual and get drafted into a team. Battle for Davis Cup glory in an atmosphere filled with team spirit, energy, and fun.
Pickleball 101 Clinic
Saturday, October 18
New to pickleball or looking to sharpen the basics? Don’t miss this hands-on clinic designed for beginners. Reserve your spot early!
Monsters & Margaritas Pickleball Social
Wednesday, October 22
Dress up, grab your paddle, and get ready for a spooky-good time. Competitive play, creative costumes, and margaritas afterward, this will be a highlight of the fall season!
Player Spotlight — Declan Gonzales
We are incredibly proud to share that our very own Declan Gonzales won the USPTA Tournament at Orinda Country Club! Declan battled through four tough matches before being crowned the champion. His hard work, perseverance, and competitive spirit embody the values we hold dear in the tennis department. Congratulations, Declan! the entire Diablo tennis team is proud of you!
Marco Sanchez
MARCO SANCHEZ, Director of Racquet Sports
QUESTIONS?
Please contact a Tennis Professional at tennis@diablocc.org
Junior Program
We’re thrilled to start our junior tennis programs! Here’s the lineup:
For questions or registration details, reach out anytime: marcos@diablocc.org. Thank you for your continued support in making our junior tennis program the best it can be!
Declan Gonzales
FALL BOCCE IS UNDERWAY
The Fall Bocce season has kicked off in full swing, and the courts are buzzing with friendly competition and community fun. With 34 teams and more than 480 members participating, this promises to be one of our most exciting seasons yet.
New Additions This Season
We’ve added a few upgrades to make your bocce nights even better:
∙ TVs at the pergolas for keeping up with games and scores
∙ Yellow pallino (yes, they’re easier to spot!)
∙ Cozy blankets are available for those crisp fall evenings
∙ Upgraded speakers brining great music and energy to the courts
Fuel for the Fun
Chef Andy has created a fresh Bocce Menu to ensure you’ll always have something delicious to snack on between games. And don’t forget—you can also head to the Mt. Diablo Pub or the Red Horse before or after your match to enjoy more of Chef’s masterful cuisine.
Schedule & Play
Bocce play happens three nights a week— Wednesday, Thursday, Friday—and the courts are already filled with spirited matches. The first few weeks have brought plenty of excitement, with some teams already showing undefeated streaks.
Kids Club Needs Your Help
We love welcoming your little ones to Kids Club, and we want to make sure every visit is safe, fun, and well-staffed. To help us do that, please remember to make a reservation in advance whenever possible.
Reservations allow our team to prepare properly so your children get the care and attention
they deserve. While we’ll always do our best to accommodate, walk-ins may not always be possible—and we don’t want to turn anyone away.
Kids Club is the perfect spot for your children while you enjoy a night on the courts. Help us help you by reserving your spot in advance.
Teams Off to a Hot Start
Here are the teams making waves early this season:
Thats The Way We Roll (3-0)
Bada Bing (3-0)
SWIM
EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES
DIABLO SHARKS WRAP UP A STELLAR SEASON
Congratulations to all our Diablo Sharks swimmers on an incredible season! We are proud to announce the recipients of this year’s High Point, Most Improved, and Coaches Awards. Your dedication, improvement, and team spirit truly made waves!
High Point Winners
These swimmers scored the most points in their age group this season—way to go!
∙ Maverick Romanoff — 6 & Under Boys
∙ Olivia Ventura — 6 & Under Girls
∙ Cameron Bantz — 7-8 Boys
∙ Grace Doerkson — 7-8 Girls
∙ Lleyton Gardner — 9-10 Boys
∙ Aurelia Ventura — 9-10 Girls
∙ Cameron Cox — 11-12 Boys
∙ Brooke Rubin — 11-12 Girls
∙ Pierce Buttery — 13-14 Boys
∙ Mitch Richards — 15-18 Boys
∙ Natalie Buck — 15-18 Girls
Most Improved Swimmers
Hard work pays off! These swimmers showed outstanding growth throughout the season:
∙ Oliver Malley — 6 & Under Boys
∙ Kalani Eckert — 6 & Under Girls
∙ Bobby Frahm — 7-8 Boys
∙ Caila Rubin — 7-8 Girls
∙ Becket deBruyn — 9-10 Boys
∙ Ellie Johnson — 9-10 Girls
∙ Cooper Strick — 11-12 Boys
∙ Dylan Bennett — 11-12 Girls
∙ Mikey Sabo — 13-14 Boys
∙ Tiago Medieros — 15-18 Boys
∙ Molly Arney — 15-18 Girls
Coaches Award Winners
These swimmers stood out for their positive attitude, team spirit, and leadership:
∙ Logan Carlson — 6 & Under Boys
∙ Palmer Wood — 6 & Under Girls
∙ Weston Circle — 7-8 Boys
∙ Elle Carman — 7-8 Girls
∙ Cullen Aspland — 9-10 Boys
∙ Penny Maki — 9-10 Girls
∙ Parker Bantz — 11-12 Boys
∙ Charlotte Kirk — 11-12 Girls
∙ Shrey Patil — 13-14 Boys
∙ Nish Patil — 15-18 Boys
∙ Claire Larson — 15-18 Girls
SPECIAL RECOGNITION
High Point
Overall Winners: Izzy Richard S (left) and Olivia Ventura (right) — way to lead the team!
MASTERS SWIM Fridays 6:00 am ‒ 7:00 am Join fellow swimmers for a coached workout, technique tips, and great camaraderie.
AQUA BURN (WATER AEROBICS) Wednesdays 10:00 am ‒ 11:00 am Stay for lap swimming afterward!
POOL CLEANING
MONDAY & THURSDAY 7:00 am ‒ 8:00 am
WELLNESS CENTER FROM THE
CALLING ALL MEMBERS OF ALL AGES, JOIN US FOR THE FALL FIT FEST!
Come celebrate wellness and fun with us on October 19 from 1:00pm to 4:00pm. Enjoy an afternoon packed with complimentary sample classes led by our talented trainers—try quick 15-minute versions from those you know and love, or be the first to experience a brand-new class debuting that day!
While classes are going on around the event lawn, you may also indulge in complimentary low-sugar drinks (organic wine, seltzers and more) macro friendly snacks and groove to the upbeat tunes spun by our live DJ. Meet some fantastic wellness vendors from around the area who may offer additional services. There will also be raffle prizes announced every hour!
All of our fitness trainers will be out and about answering questions and showing you what they specialize in!
SAM PROTICH ATHLETE PERFORMANCE COACH
Sam Protich helps athletes unlock their full potential through science-based training and a genuine passion for movement. A graduate of De La Salle High School and the University of Arizona (Physiology, Applied Mathematics & Biochemistry), Sam holds certifications in personal training, sports nutrition, strength & conditioning, and aquatic fitness.
With a background in high-level swimming and a lifelong love for strength training, Sam focuses on building strong fundamentals, refining mechanics, and developing the mindset needed to succeed. His mission is simple: to inspire athletes to push their limits, grow with confidence, and achieve lasting performance results.
MICHELE PROCTOR, Director of Wellness and Fitness
QUESTIONS? Please send questions or communications to fitness@diablocc.org.
FITNESS CENTER HOURS
Monday 5:00am ‒ 7:00pm
Tuesday to Friday 5:00am ‒ 8:00pm
Saturday & Sunday 5:00am ‒ 5:00pm
Michele Proctor
KIDS CLUB FROM THE
KIDS CLUB UPDATES & FUN ACTIVITIES
There’s never been a better time to be part of Kids Club! We’re excited to share new hours, seasonal activities, and special events designed just for our youngest members.
New Monday Hours
Starting this month, Kids Club will be open on Mondays from 8:30am to 12:00pm. Be sure to make your reservations ahead of time so we can plan for a fun-filled morning. Walk-ins are always welcome, but please note there will be a $15 fee.
Friday Night Fun
Every Friday evening, we bring outdoor activities and excitement to Kids Club. Be sure to join in before the weather cools down!
Halloween Celebration Saturday, October 25
Get ready for a spooky good time! Join us at the Club’s Halloween Party for crafts, games, and festive fun with our team. Costumes encouraged!
Thanksgiving Crafts Monday to Wednesday, November 24–26
Kick off the holiday season with a creative start! From 9:30am to 10:30am, Kids Club will host Thanksgiving Crafts, where little ones can make festive projects to take home.
We can’t wait to welcome you and your kids to these exciting new opportunities at Kids Club.
Bocce Week #5 DWGG Tailgate Shotgun & Annual Meeting Fall Pickleball League Burger Night
Range Closed (Reed Hazen Outdoor Event) Fall Fit Fest Range Closed (De La Salle Outdoor Event)
Bocce Week #6
Davis Cup Tennis Social
Bocce Week #7
Senior Finale, Awards & Club Championship Pool Closure 11am‒4pm "Pop Smith" Mens Golf Tournament Pickleball League DWGG Formal Guest Day Pickleball League
