New Jersey Pennsylvania
A Foundation worth knowing about and supporting:
The New Jersey Golf Foundation
Founded in 2004, the New Jersey Golf Foundation is a 501(c)(3) and the charitable arm of the New Jersey Section, PGA of America. Through a wide range of programming, the NJGF champions a commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DE&I) with the goal of evolving the composition of the game of golf to better reflect the broad array of differences in our society at large. With a focus on 3 core pillars (youth, military, special needs), the NJGF’s mission is to positively impact lives and communities through the game of golf. Led by PGA Professionals, the NJGF hosts a dynamic line-up of programming that provides access for individuals from all backgrounds to experience the game of golf in a welcoming environment. Signature programs include, Golf In Schools, which is run annually at more than 200 schools, impacting more than 120,000 boys and girls (K-8); PGA Junior League featuring more than 90 teams and 1,300 kids under the age of 13 throughout New Jersey; Special Olympics New Jersey Golf and programming for individuals living with intellectual and developmental disabilities and PGA HOPE, the flagship military program that introduces golf to Veterans with disabilities. For more information, visit www.njgolffoundation.org.
Spring is here and its time to play some golf!!
Cheers, Sean Fitzsimmons
Gaylord
Elevated above the rest...naturally
Golf on 45 acres of pristine forest
Lessons for all skill levels 7 days a week
Practice on driving range, putting greens, and bunkers
Shop at the stocked Pro Shop
Memberships to a premier
course located adjacent to OVR
Shore Gate Golf Club has been perpetually ranked as one of the top public golf courses in New Jersey. Carved out of the trees, Shore Gate allows each group to feel unbothered as they navigate the course from start to finish. Whether you are looking for a round of golf, a membership to a premier golf course, lessons, or just a driving range, we have it all. Located just two miles from the
beach, Shore Gate is the perfect place to relax. About us...
By, Sean Fawcett
Gambler Ridge Golf Club
Play-Dine-Gather
“Open to All- Built for Community”
In a time when many golf courses are being shuttered or transformed into condo complexes, one family, the Collard Family of Collard Realty in Sea Bright, is taking a different swing by lovingly restoring New Jersey’s ‘Friendliest Golf Course’, Gambler Ridge Golf Club, an 18-Hole, Par 71 golf course about an hour from new York and Philadelphia, to its original grandeur.
This hands-on revival is more than just maintenance. It is, in fact, a major reimagining of what a community golf course can be.
The brand new Gambler Ridge, in just about one calendar year, has seen significant improvements in course playability and beauty, an overhaul of its Gambler Bar and Grill with an updated menu and upgraded welcoming atmosphere and expansion of event offerings to include weddings, charity events, corporate outings and communitybased celebrations of any, and all, kinds.
“ Our family’s goal is a simple one,” said Megan Collard, Co-Owner of Gambler Ridge. “ It is to preserve open green space, honor the history of the land, and make the sport accessible to all.”
Mission accomplished. Lush fairways, meticulously maintained greens and vast areas of taller fescue Links-Style grass in between holes greens highlight the golf
course’s recent transformation. Removal of more than a hundred trees has opened up the course, as well, giving golfers more opportunities while enhancing the air flow around the property, formerly a 19th Century farm.
Always a local’s favorite place to play, including myself, Gambler’s uniquely rare “Risk-Reward” layout has always provided plenty of thrills with tiny Postage Stampstyled Par 3’s like the hundred yard Par Three 3rd, or medium-to-short length reach-able Par Fours like the Back-to-Back Fifth and Sixth holes, each measuring about
300 yards apiece.
The Closing stretch of Holes 15-18, a Par 4, 5 and then 2 more Par Fours, is another memorable part of the Course. The Par 5 Sixteenth gives long hitters a chance to put for eagle and most other golfers a shot at birdie or par.
COURSE HIGHLIGHTS
• 18 holes of scenic, challenging play • Lush fairways and meticulously restored greens
• Practice facilities: 10 stall, full driving range, putting green
• Renovated 1888 barn/clubhouse with pro shop, upgraded dining, and flexible event space
• Expert golf instruction for all ages and skill levels
• Leagues and family-friendly events
“This course has been a part of the community for decades,” said Collard. “ We’re not just restoring the greens —we’re restoring the spirit of the place.
“You can feel the difference the moment you step onto the property. It’s not just a course — it’s a family passion project.”
“Our facility is the perfect blend of picturesque scenery, hospitable service and friendly atmosphere,” said Gambler Ridge Golf Course Assistant General Manager John Cereste. “ At Gambler Ridge, many visitors say they feel like family and form many lasting friendships and memories through their experiences with us. We take special pride in that.”
By investing time, resources, and
heart into Gambler Ridge, the Collards are ensuring that future generations have a place to gather, play, and connect.
“ This is about more than golf,” said Cereste. “It’s about preserving a local landmark and fostering a sense of Family and Community which, ultimately, the Game of Golf is all about and strives to promote.”
Trust me, playing a round at Gambler Ridge Golf Club has always been a sure thing, and even more so now. Go tee it up sometime and experience it for yourself. You will be very glad that you did.
Address: 121 Burlington Path Rd, Cream Ridge, NJ 08514
Phone: (609) 758-3588
Gambler Ridge Golf Club
The Sports Facilities Companies Launches Golf Division Acquires Spirit Golf Management
The Sports Facilities Companies Launches Golf Division, Acquires Spirit Golf Management
The Sports Facilities Companies (SFC), the nation’s leading resource for the management and development of sports, recreation, wellness, and events facilities, today announced the acquisition of Spirit Golf Management, a Northeast-based golf management company. The deal establishes SFC’s new Golf Division, with Spirit Golf continuing to operate under its existing brand.
Recognized for its expertise in municipal golf course operations, youth player development programs, and community-focused golf initiatives, Spirit Golf Management brings a portfolio of award-winning municipal, public, residential, and private golf properties into the SFC network.
“Golf has a unique way of building character and challenging every participant, no matter the ability level,” said Jason Clement, Founder and CEO of The Sports Facilities Companies. “Participation has exploded over the last decade in every measurable demographic. Spirit Golf has built an extraordinary reputation of improving communities through best-in-class programming, strong operations, and optimal guest experience.
Their approach aligns with our mission to improve the health and economic vitality of the communities we serve.”
Clement added, “With Spirit Golf inside the SFC Network, we are expanding our ability to support public-sector partners while introducing golf into our broader ecosystem of youth sport and recreation experiences.”
Spirit Golf currently manages and/or provides consulting services to 10 golf facilities across the Northeast region. The facilities joining SFC’s national platform under full management include: Makefield Highlands Golf Club (Yardley, Pa.), Five Ponds Golf
Club (Warminster, Pa.), Fairways Golf Club (Warrington, Pa.), Oxford Valley Golf Course (Fairless Hills, Pa), Clearbrook Golf Club (Monroe Township, N.J.), Westlake Golf & Country Club (Jackson, N.J.), and Harlem Valley Golf Club (Wingdale, N.Y.).
As part of the acquisition, Spirit Golf brings approximately 160 full-time and seasonal employees to SFC, including a team of distinguished PGA of America Golf Professionals. Founder and President Mike Attara will lead the new golf division as SFC’s senior vice president, alongside Kevin Beirne as vice president.
Golf Course Architect Stephen Kay
By, Sean Fawcett
Certain parts of the country’s golfing landscape are just synonymous with particular golf course architects. Golf in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and you’ll likely be teeing it up at a popular Willard Byrd, Tim Cate or Dan Maples design. In New Jersey, there’s a very good chance that you’ll be playing a Stephen Kay golf course, or some other that he’s done some significant renovations upon.
A long-time instructor at Rutgers University’s renowned Professional Turf Management Program, Kay is the architect of Williamstown’s Scotland Run Golf Club and The Architects Club in Lopatcong. The Architects Club is what its name says, a course featuring holes inspired by Kay after most of the Golf’s greatest architects like Donald Ross, A.W. Tillinghast and C.B. MacDonald, Hugh Wilson, Alister MacKenzie, Walter Travis and St. Andrews’ Old Tom Morris.
Most recently, Kay opened his newest course, Old Bridge
Golf Club at Rose Lambertson, or “The Rose”, in Middlesex County, which Golfing featured in our Spring 2024 issue.
The Rose features generous links-lined fairways with wetlands and ponds, sustainable irrigation, several Risk-Reward opportunities and sloping greens, including a rare Biarrittz green, an unique putting surface with a raised Back and Front portions with a deep valley right in the middle.
Raised in nearby West Chester County, New York, and a Jersey Shore transplant, Kay is, perhaps, most famous for his
many, and fun-to-play golf courses in New Jersey’s golfing mecca, The Atlantic City Region. Among Kay’s most played tracks are three of AC’s favorites, Blue Heron Pines, Harbor Pines and McCullough’s Emerald Golf Links. Blue Heron and Harbor Pines, both classic tree-lined parkland-style gems, are located in Cologne and Egg Harbor Township, respectively, opened in the mid 1990s. McCullough’s, meanwhile, opened in the early 2000s, right across from Harbor Pines, is, like Architects, an inspirational layout featuring tree-less links par 3s, and Fours and Fives based on many of the world-famous British Open holes of Scotland, England and Ireland.
Old Bridge GC
Harbor Pines GC
“Blue Heron Pines Golf Club located in Egg Harbor City New Jersey is a Stephen Kay designed that sits in the Pinelands of South Jersey approximately 25 minutes from Atlantic City. Stephen has designed a few other golf courses in the area including Harbor Pines and McCullough’s Emerald Golf Links,” said Bluer Heron’s PGA Director of Golf Wally Tittelmayer.
“The layout at Blue Heron Pines, Stephen designed is a very fair but challenging golf course. The course rolls and winds through the pine trees on the property. Each hole has its own unique character with no two holes liking similar, creating a fun and enjoyable round of golf. He framed many of the par 4’s and 5’s using fairway bunkers to create great site lines off the tee and rolling fairways to provide the golfer an opportunity to position themselves for easier approaches into the greens. Most greens are well bunkered and water hazards come into play on a handful of holes. The nice feature is he has provided the golfer with the ability to run their shot onto the putting surfaces without a forced carry on most of the holes. Utilizing all the features of the land provided his routing is exceptional, with some dogleg left and dogleg right holes, variation in length on his par 3’s from the short #11 over a pond to the long and demanding #16 with a green that sits up on a hill and runs away from the tee shot. Overall, it is a fun layout for golfers of various skill levels with a ton of character and charm.”
“The variety of golf in Atlantic City is really amazing,” said Kay.
“South Jersey is such a great area to golf. It’s one of the best golfing destinations in the whole country. I feel very fortunate to have been a part of so many of its courses and to play and live here.”
Over the past three to four years, as well, Kay, a master course renovator, who’s rejuvenated venerated golf courses like The Brigantine Links, and Philadelphia’s Union’ League Torresdale Country Club( a Ross course formerly known as Frankford-Torresdale Country Club), has had a huge hand in modernizing two more of South Jersey’s classic courses, Hammonton’s Pinelands Golf Club, and Atlantis Golf Course, part of the ocean County Parks and recreation Department in Mystic Islands near Tuckerton. At Atlantis, a George Fazio design opened in 1962, Kay’s work in irrigation, resodding greens, tree removal and reshaping, and shrinking, the
course’s many, and formerly penal, greenside sand traps making the course even more fun to play for County residents and visiting golfers alike.
“Stephen has done a tremendous job renovating our course,” said Atlantis’ supervising greenskeeper, Josh Moore. “ The improvements with the new bunkering and the greens he’s helped us with over the past four to five years has been phenomenal. He’s one of the most knowledgeable guys in turf and architecture I know.”
New Jersey, one of the original, and main, birthplaces of the Game of Golf, has had many of the Game’s greatest golf course architects build courses here, and Stephen Kay is one of the very best to do so.
www.KayGolfCourseDesign.com
McCullough’s
Blue Heron Pines GC
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Historic charm, breathtaking views, and attention to detail await you at Makefield Highlands. Our team of wedding experts will be by your side throughout the entire journey, ensuring a memorable experience filled with moments that will stay with you forever. Call Elisa at 215.321.7000 x107 events@makefieldhighlandsgolf.com
ShopRite LPGA Powered by Wakefern
Set to Return to the Jersey Shore
May 29-31, 2026
By Jeremy Friedman
GALLOWAY, N.J.— Atlantic
City’s kickoff professional sporting event of the summer returns with new dates and a new name that honors the past while looking ahead to the future. The ShopRite LPGA powered by Wakefern, entering its 38th year in 2026, will take place May 29-31 at Seaview Hotel and Golf Club in Galloway, N.J., where 144 of the world’s best female professional golfers will compete for a share of the $2 million purse, a $250,000 increase from 2025.
Tickets are now on sale and volunteer registration is now open for the ShopRite LPGA powered by Wakefern at www.ShopRiteLPGA.com.
Wakefern Food Corp., the new presenting sponsor of the championship and the largest retailerowned supermarket cooperative in the United States, is made up of members who independently own and operate hundreds of supermarkets throughout the Northeast, including all ShopRite supermarkets.
fern President Mike Stigers.
“We’ve long been a supporter and sponsor of this great event and are expanding that commitment now as presenting sponsor to ensure a lasting impact on the community and women’s sports. The ShopRite LPGA powered by Wakefern is the perfect platform for us to do that, and we are excited to continue to expand our partnership in making this premier event even better with new initiatives and new ways to give back and support the athletes and the community in 2026 and beyond,” said Wake-
ShopRite continues its decades-long tradition of supporting women’s golf and giving back to community-based organizations through the ShopRite LPGA powered by Wakefern. Since 1992, ShopRite has donated more than $45 million to area hospitals, food banks, education and youth programs and other community champions through its work
with the LPGA. At the 2025 edition of the championship, dozens of nonprofits received donations totaling more than $1.8 million during a luncheon hosted by Wakefern and ShopRite.
The ShopRite LPGA powered by Wakefern has been a launch pad for several of the game’s preeminent players to kick start their LPGA Tour careers, including Paula Creamer, Brooke Henderson and Lexi Thompson. The tournament annually boasts one of the strongest fields on the LPGA Tour and has featured many of the game’s greatest players as past champions, including Juli Inkster, Betsy King, Dottie Pepper, Seri Pak, Annika Sorenstam, Cristie Kerr, Stacy Lewis, Karrie Webb, Henderson and Thompson.
For more information on the ShopRite LPGA powered by Wakefern, visit www.ShopRiteLPGA.com, and on social media @ ShopRiteLPGA on X, @ ShopRiteLPGA on Instagram and ShopRite LPGA on Facebook.
Cheyenne Knight
LPGA Tour Winner & Team ShopRite Ambassador
Azahara Munoz
LPGA Tour Winner & Team ShopRite Ambassador
Brooke Henderson 2022 ShopRite LPGA Champion
Wonderful Weequahic Awakens
By, Sean Fawcett
Originally Designed by the then Baltusrol Country Club professional, George Lowe, in 1913. Weequahic Golf Course began play in 1914, and is the oldest public golf course in the state of New Jersey. Over time renovations were done to turn it into an 18hole golf course by 1969. From September 2024 to only just recently, Weequahic GC underwent a full renovation by Atlantic City area based, but West Chester County, New York native, architect Stephen Key. Kay, who built Blue Heron Pines, Harbor Pines and McCullough’s Emerald Golf Link down the Shore, and more recently built the new, and highly praised, Rose-Lambertson Golf Course in Old Bridge, Middlesex County. Kay’s mind-blowing vision constructed brand new greens, tees, and bunkers while updating WGC’s routing to provide more, and much improved, playability.
The word “Weequahic” is from the Lenni-Lenape Native American term for “head of the cove”. The course sits next to the 300+acre Olmstead Brothers created Weequahic Park.
The course sits amongst the beautifully scenic, and surprisingly peaceful, Weequahic Park on the shoreline of a 200-acre lake with the very same name. It offers rolling topography and beautiful conditions that offer extreme value. The course was
described in 2016 by The Golf Channel as a “hidden gem.”
WGC is a historic course nestled in the heart of Newark with easy access from multiple major highways awaits. From beginners to experienced golfers, this course, situated uniquely along the outskirts of Newark Liberty International Airport, and with magnificent vistas of New York City, is incredible for all playing abilities.
With views of One World Trade, the Iconic Anheuser-Busch building, and departing jets taking off nearby, you will want to keep coming back.
Weequahic was home to golf pro legend Wiley Williams, who was one of the first African-American golfers to win a major New Jersey golf event, worked to introduce city youth to the sport.
Weequahic tees off with a short, slight dogleg right Par 4 named Coffin Corner. Three bunkers stand sentinel front and to the right followed bya160-ish yard Par 3 for Hole No.2, named Long Look.
Other holes named Early Grave, Burial Mounds, Mountain of Fire(a Par 5), Dayton Dread, Infinity Tree Trouble and Steep Slope round out the Front Side. One of Weequahic’s most interesting holes is No.15, a dogleg left Par 4 named Fork of the River. Average in size for a Par 4, playing only 300 to 371 yards, and with the largest fairway on the property, be careful of mishitting your drive to the right where you could get skewered by the fork of a now dried up river bed where the fairway bends to the left. Eighteen, the Home Hole named Home, is, on the other hand, a trickier Par 4 bending right and then left Mounds down by the green on the right and surrounding the green make getting up and down in two following
an errant approach a most challenging proposition.
Only 5,262 yards from the White Tees, and less than three hundred yards more from the Back, or Blue, Tees, Weequahic, a true turn of the Century old-fashioned golf course demands patience and accuracy and a good short game way more than Power. That being said, breaking 90, or even 100, is a very good score for a day on the wonderful Weequahic links. Lovers of Golf Strategy, History, and a nice day outside with friends, and new found friends, will really enjoy playing Weequahic again and again and again.
“For many years we looked forward to getting to the Weequahic improvements done, we ultimately knew with the great elevation change and the iconic urban sights that the course would really be something very unique,” said Essex County Parks and Recreation Director of Golf Timothy Christ.
“Classic old-school golf course architecture in a very unique urban setting always stirs your emotions, the clash of scenery, jumbo jets taking off in the background of mounds of fescue, skyscrapers seen off in the distance of 100 year old oak trees and lush green fairways, it feels as if you are experiencing something special with every hole.
“I feel strongly that Stephen and our
entire team have rebuilt something really special, even though Weequahic will never host a championship or be talked about as one of the truly great golf courses of New Jersey it will be a course favorite among the everyday public golfer! No doubt a fan favorite for the fun people will have playing this great game of golf and that is pretty significant!”
1 Thomas Carmichael Drive Newark, NJ 07113
973-926-2520
www://essexcountyparks.org/golf/ weequahic-golf-course
Weequahic Golf Course
By, Sean Fawcett
WRamblewood Country Club A Must Play
hen playing a round of golf around Mt. Laurel, make sure to play Ron Jaworski’s Ramblewood Country Club. You will be so glad you did.
Among the Tri-State Region’s many, many great golf courses to play, the courses of the Jawowski Golf Group are some of the very, very best there are.
And for good reason, too. The courses are always in Super Bowl shape, the food and drinks are always a huge hit, and the overall playing experience is, well, a touchdown.
Such is the case with Jaworski’s Ramblewood Country Club.
The 27-Hole Ramblewood Country Club is just a terrific example of parkland-style golf sporting the oldtimey 1960’s country club atmosphere which can easily transport members and guests to the nostalgic feeling like they’ve suddenly stepped right back in time to Golf’s mid-20th Century Hey-Day of some of Golf’s very best, Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player.
Blue, The White and The Red.
Absorbed into the Jaworski family of quality golf courses almost ten years ago(2016) with Baltimore Ravens Super Bowl winning QB, and Audubon native, Joe Flacco, Ramblewood, one of only a few 27-Hole facilities in the area, boasts three separate 18-hole combinations, playing The
Variety is a major theme at venerable Ramblewood. The Red and White Nines, both having been built on gently rolling pasture-land, and opened in 1962, give a great Old-fashioned vibe which inspired the Murray Brothers to pen, and act in, that classic of Western Cinema, Caddyshack.. It’s really cool.
The White and The Red courses both feature generous landing areas and large, receptive greens with subtle undulations
and strategic bunkering with several forced carriers over water and rough.
The Blue, which opened some ten years later, has the feel of a core golf course throughout, with hole corridors carved through the pine forests of Southern New Jersey’s legendary Pinelands. Course Management is crucial to success on The Blue as tight fairways and even more undulating greens set the stage for your round. Accuracy off the tee and deft putting are the keys to going low on this nine.
“Ramblewood Country Club offers 27 holes of championship golf for players of all skill levels,” said Ramblewood’s Director of Golf, Garrett Montgomery.
“Our 7 Tap Tavern slogan is “No Boring People Allowed!” We prioritize fun and enjoyment while playing our three championship courses!”
Mission accomplished. Have fun and hit ‘em straight!
www.RamblewoodCC.com
Ramblewood Country Club
200 Country Club Parkway Mount Laurel, NJ 08054 Phone: 856-235-2118
By, Sean Fawcett
NTidewater Golf Club A Myrtle Beach Gem
orth Myrtle Beach is known for many things. Being the Home of Wheel of Fortune’s Vanna White is one, of course, but being the home of Tidewater Golf Club is another.
Played partly right along the scenic, and peaceful, Cherry Grove tidal inlet, set along the low-country’s beautiful and natural landscape, Tidewater Golf Club is a must-see, and must-play, golf course that all golfers traveling to the Myrtle Beach area will absolutely love to play, and want to play again and again, and again.
Tidewater’s stunning landscape leaves golfers raving long after they’ve returned home. While beauty is at the heart of the Tidewater experience, it’s only part of what makes the property so very, very special. Tidewater’s commitment to premium customer service and meticulously maintained course conditions are every bit the equal of the scenery, making this one of the best golf travel experiences in Myrtle Beaches’ historic, and iconic, Grand Strand.
For ten years I’ve been wanting to play Tidewater Golf Club, and I’m so, so sorry that I waited so long to finally get to do so. Rated by Golf Digest as one of America’s “Top 100 Greatest Public Golf
Courses”(2011-2012), Tidewater has a feel similar to that of Pebble Beach, and sometimes TPC’s Sawgrass, and challenges players of all levels.
One of the courses’ prettiest holes is the picturesque Par 3 Twelfth Hole called “Wishing Well”. Set to carry water to an elevated two-tiered green guarded by bulkheads and bunkers short and left, the Tidewater’s 12th plays for a fade with some room to miss long and a chance to save par with a good chip and a putt.
Tidewater features nine holes that run
right along either the Cherry Grove Inlet, or the Intracoastal Waterway and wows golfers with truly incredible, and eye-popping, views and a layout that challenges every part of a players’ game. The beauty of the par 3 third hole highlights a trip along the waterway, with its putting surface perched along the edge of Cherry Grove. Named “Stranded”, the challenge of putting the ball on the proper tier is a thrilling test that has anchored thousands upon thousands of memorable Myrtle Beach golf trips.
Tidewater’s other signature aspect of its
terrific, and scenic, layout is in its many risk-reward options. Par Fives like the 13th, “Ocean Isle” force golfers to make some hard decisions about going for the green in 2, or laying back and going at it in a regulation 3.
If you enjoy playing fun golf courses with risk-reward, and challenging, golf holes and incredible, breath-taking scenery, then Tidewater Golf Club is for you, and, well, everyone else as well.
Tidewater’s Fourth. “Futch Site”, named for a former overseer of the property, is the course’s No.1 Handicap, and one whale of
a Par 4 to get to try. Tidewater’s Teaching Professional Cory Hill explains.
“At 430 yards, the par-4 fourth hole at Tidewater Golf Club is considered the toughest on the course. The fairway turns slightly from right to left, with a few sand traps lining the right side and saltwater marsh on the left. The green is well-guarded by sand bunkers all around. Typically, the hole plays into the ocean breeze, adding to its difficulty. To play this hole effectively, I usually hit a driver, aiming just right of the 150-yard marker in the middle of the fairway. From the right center of the fairway,
I generally have about 175 yards left to the green, and I use an extra club to account for the ocean breeze and avoid the front bunkers. When aiming for the green, I aim for the middle and try to be below the hole. Being on the green doesn’t mean the challenge is over, as the green slopes severely from back to front.”
As amazing as the golf is at Tidewater, so is their award-winning food and drink. A perfect place to finish your round, or to have lunch before playing, Joey’s Clubhouse Grille, caps off, or tees off, a wonderful day at Tidewater Golf Club with classic pub and clubhouse fare that golfers of all tastes crave, along with local Low-Country treats. I recommend “JD’s Famous Chili” and The “Po Boy”, which comes with either fried flounder, shrimp, or oysters, plus juicy burgers and crab cakes and pulled pork sandwiches, give diners almost as much options as the holes on the golf course do.
An all-in-one and all-around golfing experience is waiting for you at Tidewater Golf Club. Don’t dare miss it when coming to play in your first, or next, Myrtle Beach golfing vacation if you can. Play Tidewater Golf Club today. You will regret it if you don’t
www.TidewaterGolf.com
Explore the Premier Golf Destinations of
MORRIS COUNTY
Discover the diverse and picturesque golf experiences that Morris County offers. From the stunning highland views at Berkshire Valley, the lush dual courses at Flanders Valley, the challenging terrains of Sunset Valley, to the accessible executive rounds at Pinch Brook - each course brings its own unique challenges and pristine conditions.
Perfect for players of all levels and ideal for tournaments, corporate events, and memorable outings.
BOOK YOUR NEXT ROUND OR EVENT AT NEW JERSEY’S TOPRATED COURSES.
morriscountygolfcourses.com
SHARING SUCCESS
Gaylord Golf Mecca Courses Cooperate, Grow, Impress
By Greg Johnson
Sharing in success is a proven method in the Gaylord Golf Mecca America’s favorite summer landing spot for golfers has spent 39 years moving forward as a premier U.S. summer golf destination. In 2026, through its time-tested cooperative destination marketing model, the Mecca supports 16 golf course members and 21 lodging partners.
“The reason the Mecca works and continues to grow is a tremendous group of owners who have vision and believe in destination marketing,” said Paul Beachnau, executive director of the Mecca since its inception in 1987.
“We simply keep getting better together. Our members, our partners, improve their courses, turf, bunkers, tees, it seems all the time, and those with lodging keep up to date with regular room renovations. I see all the improvements the properties keep making, and our Mecca partnership with the Cherry Capital Airport in Traverse City has opened up national and international
markets to us. We, as a group, share ideas to serve visitors. The Mecca is a true meaning of cooperative, and as a group and as individual properties there is a commitment to always being the best golf destination Gaylord can be.”
Gaylord, a Northern Michigan community fondly known as the Alpine Village, at first glance is not your typical major golf destination.
It started in 1987 when Harry Melling, a flamboyant auto industry supplier and NASCAR team owner who had earlier purchased Sylvan ski resort on the edge of town, unveiled the Masterpiece, the last major golf course design by the legendary architect, Robert Trent Jones.
The award-winning Jones creation attracted golfers to what later became known as Treetops Resort and quickly put Gaylord in the national golf conversation as a must-stop in the Midwest. It was also Jones who coined the name Treetops. During construction, he observed the stun-
ning view over the Pigeon River Valley from the ridge and tee 180-plus feet above the green of the course’s iconic signature Par 3 sixth hole. It’s treetops for miles.
The Masterpiece was the first of five top-flight and award-winning golf courses Melling would go on to build at the resort, including the only Tom Fazio designed course in Michigan, which is called the Premier.
The Golf Channel launched its popular “Big Break” series in Gaylord and ESPN’s “Par 3 Shootout” at Treetops on the Rick Smith-designed Threetops par 3 course. Both productions, pushed forward by Smith who was then Treetops’ head golf professional, helped spread the Mecca message across America as Jack Nicklaus, Phil Mickelson, Fred Couples, Lee Trevino and others came to town.
During that same summer, the Gaylord Tourism Bureau had formed and in turn spawned the Gaylord Golf Mecca – a coordinated marketing effort and label
Craft Farms , Cotton Creek Course
officials hoped would draw attention to the original six Mecca member golf courses. Five of those six – Treetops, Otsego Resort, Gaylord Golf Club, Michaywe Pines Course and Lakes of the North – remain part of today’s Sweet 16.
At the Masterpiece grand opening in 1987, Jones called the Gaylord area, and specifically Treetops, a place “waiting for golf to find its way here.” Golf had already found its way in limited amounts to Gaylord, but Jones envisioned what is now found in 2026.
The golf pro Smith was a 23-year-old fresh-faced, floppy haired PGA pro from Toledo armed with endless enthusiasm and yet-to-be-discovered wide array of skills. He nodded his head as Jones talked that day.
“It’s so perfect here,” Smith said as he made his
rounds on the practice tee a few minutes later offering tips like he would to Phil Mickelson and many others later in his career. “Just wait until you get out there and play.”
Jones, Fazio, Smith, and many other golf architecture greats have their artistry included in the Mecca collection, primed and ready each golf season for people to get out and play.
Wilfred Reid, a Michigan Golf Hall of Fame member whose most notable design is the Olympic Club in San Francisco, did original design work that remains a part of the classic Indian River Golf Club since redesigned by Michigan’s Warner Bowen.
Rees Jones, one of Robert Trent Jones’ sons, created one of his personal favorites and an award-winning course at Black Lake Golf Club
Rick Robbins and PGA Tour player and NBC golf analyst Gary Koch built
Indian River Golf Club
The Monarch at Garland Lodge & Golf Resort
The Tribute at Otsego Resort, a tribute to Northern Michigan golf and vistas. William Diddle of Indianapolis, a co-founder of the American Society of Golf Course Architects, designed The Classic, the friendly course along the road at the resort.
Jerry Matthews, the most prolific Michigan Golf Hall of Fame designer, crafted nine of the holes at Lakes of the North to go with an original nine by Bill Newcomb, another Michigan designer.
Don Childs, another noted Michigan golf course designer, created Michaywe Pines Course and Gaylord Golf Club, two shining-star parkland style courses in the Mecca.
The late Ron Otto, a Detroit businessman who invented the insulated garage door and later developed and owned Garland Lodge & Golf Resort, also became a golf course designer. His four popular designs at the resort are a clear reflection of his creative talents, including the popular Reflections course. The resort also added a new par three short course, The Sawyer, in 2025.
service, everybody-is-welcome affordable addition and the improvements keep happening to a course built on rolling, beautiful land created long ago by glaciers.
Black Bear Golf Course, which has been revamped and renewed by new local owners Olivia and Rob Smith, is the latest addition to the Mecca. It’s a perfect, full-
“We are unique in this country as a destination in the north because of the quantity and the quality of golf,” Beachnau said. “I believe only Myrtle Beach Golf Holiday has been together as a cooperative marketing
effort in golf longer than the Mecca. And right now, I see a resurgence in cooperative action and golf travel. Plus, it is easier to get to Northern Michigan now with more flights offered through the Cherry Capital Airport in Traverse City, which opens us up to other big golf markets, too. It’s exciting. We have a bright future as long as we keep the quality of our great courses at an
Gaylord Golf Club
Michaywe Pines Golf Course
elevated level and keep working together.”
In what is almost four decades, Gaylord has earned the right to be called America’s Summer Golf Mecca
“The first budget for the Mecca was $15,000, the tourism bureau contributed $7,500 and we had a formula for the golf courses to put in $1,500 each to make up the rest,” Beachnau said.
“The initial Tourism Bureau budget for Gaylord was just over $100,000 and is now well over $1 million with about $300,000 budgeted for the Golf Mecca’s marketing and advertising.”
The first year of the Mecca saw courses record 60,000 rounds of golf with revenues of $2 million. The high-water mark set in 2025 for the Mecca was over 280,000 rounds with revenues of $26 million.
Beachnau said he and the early founders of the Mecca were comfortable in the golf product they were selling, but he is amazed by the level of success now being experienced.
“If you had asked me if I ever envisioned the growth in the number of quality golf courses I would have to say no,” he said. “I imagined us to be reasonably successful in developing a cool niche of the golf market, but what it has led to in terms of the number of golf courses in Northern Michigan, the quality, and the number of world class designers that have found us, is just amazing.”
Judy Mason, the head golf professional at Michaywe Pines Course, said the group has long realized that together they are stronger. “Together we have great inventory, more to offer and sell and it gives us as
many talents, and the current leaders of the Mecca believe it’s a collection of golf variety unmatched by other golf destinations.
Corey Crowell, the general manager of Indian River and current president of the Mecca, said traveling golfers can’t beat the Mecca variety or bang for the buck.
a marketing group more to talk about,” she said. “Beyond that, we know the key is to bring more golfers to Gaylord and we can all grow stronger together. Cooperation and competition can work together. We prove it in the Mecca.”
The Mecca is a collective reflection of
“You can play two completely different styles in one day easily, and three or four completely different styles of courses easily on one trip,” he said. “And the price you pay is incredible if you compare it to other parts of the country. We give you world class golf at affordable prices.”
JT Aude, the head golf professional at Gaylord Golf Club which serves as a busy club for a bevy of golfers daily through the summer, calls the Mecca destination unique. “I can’t think of any other destination in the country that has a similar combination of quality and quantity combined with affordability, ease of access and a clear effort to make sure the golfer comes first,” he said.
“There are places with affordable golf, but not with quality of courses we offer at our combination of prices. There are places with more courses, but not in a variety from family friendly golf to classic country club style golf to award-winning resort golf all designed by some of the world’s top architects. You only find all that here, in Gaylord.”
Visit www.GaylordGolfMecca.com to plan your trip.
The Tribute at Otesego Resort
Teeing It Up in the Golf Capital of Tennesse
By, DAVID THOERET
The state of Tennessee has several big cities, each with its fair share of upscale daily fee golf courses, private clubs, and resorts. But it’s the small town of Crossville, with a population of less than 15,000, that is recognized as “The Golf Capital of Tennessee.”
Crossville is located in Cumberland County, up on the Cumberland Plateau. It’s right off I-40, two hours east of Nashville, and about an hour west of Knoxville. Crossville garnered this distinction because of the high concentration of championship courses, a wide variety of layouts suitable for all skill levels, and a mild, year-round climate. The temperature on the plateau runs 5 – 12 degrees cooler than cities like Knoxville, Nashville, and Memphis.
Of the ten or so golf courses in the Crossville area, three facilities offer “golf packages” that include both golf and accommodations on the property: Fairfield Glade, Bear Trace at Cumberland Mountain State Park, and Lake Tansi Golf Resort.
Fairfield Glade is the most recognized golf property in the area, if not the state.
It’s a resort/retirement community in eastern Cumberland County. Fairfield Glade is home to over 9,000 residents and five stunning championship golf courses: Druid Hills, Dorchester, The Brae and The Crag at Heatherhurst Golf Club, and Stonehenge. It’s the biggest reason that Crossville holds the title.
Druid Hills Golf Club is where it all started at Fairfield Glade. The first 9 holes opened in 1970; the 2nd nine wasn’t completed until 1973. Druid is located at the property’s highest point and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. There’s a plaque behind the back tees on the 14th tee with the names of all of the mountains you see off in the distance. The course has some modest elevation changes and features tree-lined fairways, lots of water hazards, and well-undulated Bentgrass greens. It’s not the longest course out here, so keeping driver in the bag on most holes is the best way to score well.
Druid Hills is also home to The Golf Garage, an indoor/outdoor teaching, training, and practice facility with two Trackman
hitting bays. These bays are used for private lessons, club fittings, clinics, and training; they can also be rented and used as virtual golf courses. The Garage also does grip replacements and club repair.
In August of 2024, Druid Hills unveiled The Quarry, an 18-hole putting course that will challenge the best of putters. Each hole has multiple breaks and undulations, many of which break a lot more than you think. It’s a great place to settle bets or recoup some of your earlier losses. It too can be rented out for private functions.
What Dorchester Golf Club lacks in length, it more than makes up for in accuracy and control. Many of the fairways are narrow and framed by trees, starting with Number 1, the course’s No. 1 handicap. Water comes into play on 6 holes, and bunkers dot the landing area on many holes. Several holes have some noticeable elevation changes, but nothing like what lies ahead. Well-groomed fairways lead to challenging Bentgrass greens that can leave you shaking your head.
The Brau, 10th Hole
Heatherhurst is home to two challenging courses, The Crag and the Brae. The Crag is the more player-friendly of the two and begins with a short par 5 that is easily reachable with a good drive. Rolling fairways rise and fall as you play. Bentgrass tees and greens, wide fairways, plenty of wildlife, and stunning views on the 17th tee are several reasons why you’ll enjoy your round on the Crag.
The Brae features two unique nines. The front nine is home to arguably the most challenging par-5 in Tennessee. The 4th hole is a double dogleg par 5 that requires two carries over Otter Creek. The back nine has three par 3s, three par 4s, and three par 5s. It starts with one of the most visually stunning courses on the property, a downhill par 5 with a green that overlooks Lake Dartmoor. The Brae is the area’s only course with Zoysia fairways, which is a very tolerant hot-weather grass. Golfweek ranks The Brae #5 in their list of the Best Public Golf Courses in Tennessee for 2025.
he could find on the property and carved out the golf course. As you play, you’ll pass large, natural rock outcroppings and walls of native stone, which is where the course gets its name. Stonehenge’s signature hole is the par 3, 14th, which plays about 80 feet downhill and is photographed by just about every player who’s part of a golf package! Stonehenge Golf Club features Bentgrass
nicely with its surroundings, capitalizing on several elevation changes that create a mix of both uphill and downhill shots. Mother Nature adds some natural features like flowing streams and clusters of mature pines, and Nicklaus adds strategically placed bunkers and a handful of risk/reward opportunities. Recently, the course underwent a huge transformation that involved switching 28 acres of cool-season grass to warmweather Bermudagrass. Not only does it make it better for golfers, but it also looks a lot better. Everyone I’ve spoken with raves about the conditioning.
Stonehenge is Fairfield Glade’s premier layout and is ranked #3 on that same list. The course was designed by legendary architect Joe Lee, who took the best piece of land
from tee to green, providing optimal playing conditions.
Bear Trace at Cumberland Mountain was designed by Jack Nicklaus and was quickly named “One of the Top Ten Courses You Can Play in North America” when it opened in 1999. The course blends in
As you make your way around the course, you’ll find native woodlands bordering many of the rolling fairways and rock formations that need to be avoided at all costs. Elevated tee boxes offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, and the Nicklaus greens will keep even the best of players guessing. There’s nothing better than hitting a drive from an elevated tee box and watching it fly over valleys and ravines and catching a downslope when it lands. It’s the downhill shots I’m not fond of!
In my opinion, the most underrated golf
The Crag, 4th Hole
Shonehenge, 14th Hole
course in Cumberland County is Lake Tansi. Over the years, Lake Tansi Golf Course has received numerous accolades, including being rated one of the Top 10 courses in Tennessee by Golf Advisor. Golf Course Superintendent Todd Mathews and his staff do a tremendous job keeping the course green yearround with a closely guarded secret mixture of Bentgrass, Kentucky Bluegrass, and Fescue. “Lake Tansi lies at an elevation of 1,900 feet, making the daytime temperatures considerably cooler than other areas of the state. The grasses don’t lose a lot of their color when they go dormant in cooler weather,” says Mathews. Early in the season, the greens may throw you off. They are various shades of green until fully grown, but still roll true.
It’s probably my favorite, not because I had a hole-in-one a couple of years ago on the 15th hole while playing with Head Pro, Gavin Darbyshire, but because the staff is great, the course is challenging, yet fair, and green year-round. But seriously, it’s the hole-in-one!
A couple of the par 5s are reachable in two with a good drive, and the par 3s, while not the longest, will challenge your
shot-making and putting abilities. The two par-3s on the front side feature greens with a lot of slope, and if you’re not below the hole, putting can be an adventure. Number 17 is a long par 4 with an approach shot over water, and unless you’re long off the tee, you’ll have a long to mid iron into the green. Number 18 is a three-shot par 5 with an elevated green that also has a lot of slope to it. Good rounds are often spoiled on these finishing holes!
This charming lake-resort community has a lot going for it besides the golf course; there’s the 550-acre lake, complete with a beach area and boat rentals.
All three properties offer accommodations, whether it’s a cabin at Cumberland
Mountain State Park, a lakeside cottage at Lake Tansi Village, or a condo rental at Fairfield Glade. Each one also has a restaurant or two on the property, with plenty of choices nearby. So, when you’re done with golf for the day, and you’ve enjoyed a good meal at one of the restaurants, sit back on the patio and look around at all of the wonderful views up here on the Cumberland Plateau. With a low cost of living, a modest climate where golf can be played year-round, and the friendliest people you’ll meet, it’s enough to make Crossville your home. I did.
For more information or to book your next golf vacation to Tennessee’s Golf Capital, visit them online www.explorecrossville.com/explore/golf
Bear Trace #7
Lake Tansi
By, DAVID THEORET
IBlackthorn Club Become Part of the Family.
n the 1990s, golf’s popularity flourished. The “Tiger “effect was in full bloom, dramatically changing the game’s demographics as the younger crowd began to see golf in a whole new way. Media coverage increased as new digital platforms emerged. Golf equipment was quickly evolving. Manufacturers were using lighter yet stronger graphite shafts and titanium clubheads to increase swing speeds and add distance. Resorts in the planning stages began including golf courses and training facilities. Golf courses were popping up in new “master-planned” communities, which linked the game to an upscale lifestyle and social status.
Robert “Rab” Summers has been in the road building industry since May 12, 1946. His grandfather, Lines R. Taylor, founded the firm of Taylor-Summers and became the 69th firm licensed to serve the State of Tennessee on important construction projects. They have built many of the roads
and highways you drive on in northeastern Tennessee.
Duke Ingram has been in the insurance and financial securities industry since graduating from college in 1969 and has enjoyed uninterrupted membership in the Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT) ever since. In 1997, these two men, along with a few friends, decided to build a residential golf community in Jonesborough, TN, and The Ridges Golf and Country Club, now known as Blackthorn Club at the Ridges, was born. After a successful build-out of the community, the golf course and community were sold to the members. Unfortunately, the 2008 recession took its toll on The Ridges Golf and Country Club. The Club saw its membership numbers fall to an unsustainable number, and the members were being forced to sell. Grace intervened when two of the original owners, Ingram and Summers, stepped in and repurchased the club, renaming it
Blackthorn Club at The Ridges. It became a “for-profit” company that needed no committees to govern it. The two quickly assembled an all-star management team and set their sights on becoming a full-service, family-centric private club with a wide range of vibrant amenities and programs.
Evergreen Partners owns several golf and country clubs and has built its reputation on offering unparalleled hospitality, long-term visions, and creating a sense of belonging within each club, making each member feel like part of the family. They achieve this by assembling a staff at each club that provides exceptional service and empowers each member of the team to think and act like owners. Many staff members have worked at the club for a long time. The Director of Racquets, John Lucchesi was the club’s first employee when it was founded in 1997.
When Evergreen Partners sought to purchase a club in East Tennessee and
make it their first property, there were several criteria they wanted to meet. They wanted a club that was well respected in the area and had a strong, loyal membership base. Preferably, the course would be in an upscale community that offered room to grow and had an ownership group that
members felt strongly about.
Although Blackthorn Club was not for sale at the time, Ingram and Summers decided to meet with Matthew Hobbins and Lincoln Duff from Evergreen Partners. The previous owners were so impressed with Evergreen’s vision for the Club and
its commitment to maintaining its legacy that they decided to entertain an offer, and eventually, a deal was made. After all, both Summers and Ingram resided in the community and would frequently interact with the Club’s new ownership.
Blackthorn Club met all of Evergreen’s purchasing criteria and more. Average home prices in the community exceed $1 million. East Tennessee State University’s Medical School is helping them reach a whole new demographic, as many medical school graduates look to stay in the area. Young professionals with high earning potential are bringing down the average membership age, a great sign for any club.
The centerpiece of this upscale community is the 18-hole Arthur Hills championship golf course and practice facility, which includes a full-length driving range, a short game area featuring challenging bunker shots, and a practice putting green.
From 1998 – 2023, the Club hosted the Bank of Tennessee Intercollegiate golf tournament, which featured East Tennessee State University and
other schools from around the country. Many PGA TOUR players have participated, including Matt Kuchar, Graeme McDowell, Jason Duffner, Luke Donald, and Will Zalatoris. According to Head Golf Professional Michael Davenport, the new owners plan on reviving the tournament in the fall of 2026.
The golf course winds through several neighborhoods in The Ridges and can play anywhere from 4,846 to 7,147 yards. There are seven sets of tees to choose from and a couple more hybrid yardages on the scorecard, so finding a suitable distance should be easy. When in doubt, play it forward!
Arthur Hills had a great piece of property to work with, and as you look over the holes on your drive onto the property, you wonder if you’ll ever find a flat lie. As you make your way around the layout, you’ll encounter meandering creeks, challenging fairway bunkers and green complexes, and a couple of water hazards. The Crenshaw Bentgrass greens are quick and roll true. They feature subtle undulations and are a lot of fun. The course is always in immaculate condition.
Russell Lutz has been the Head Superintendent for 15 years and led the charge 12 years ago to obtain Audubon certification. He is quick to recognize that when Hills built the golf course, he did a good job with the drainage, an amazing feat
given how hilly the terrain is. The course has never undergone any major renovations since being built.
Pawleys Plantation
When prospective members are deciding on a new club, the dining and culinary department usually rate high on the list. Certified Executive Chef James Allen and his team cannot be beaten. Allen joined the Blackthorn Club over 15 years ago and is dedicated to his craft. The food is prepped in such a way that he and his staff can easily handle special orders and create dishes that exceed the expectations of even the most discriminating diner, something they will request on their next visit. Menu selections such as Crab Rangoon Tacos, South Meats Far East, and Uncle Boudreaux’s Pasta showcase his outside-the-box thinking.
In addition to fantastic golf and incredible dining, Blackthorn Club features all the amenities you’d expect at an upscale club. If you prefer the courts over the course, there’s a 16,800-sq. ft. indoor tennis/fitness/lounge facility and three new outdoor pickleball courts.
Get back in shape – or in better shape –at the Club’s indoor fitness center. Choose from weight benches and free weights to cardio and strength training machines. There’s a separate studio for fitness and stretching classes, and a personal trainer is also available.
Burn off what energy you have left at
Blackthorn’s large, heated pool with lanes for swimming laps, and a smaller kids’ pool. The Club offers swimming lessons for all ages, aquatic fitness classes, youth programs, and poolside dining. It’s the summertime gathering place for the whole family. Other amenities include a children’s playground and the barn on Hole No. 13, a replica of the original barn from the farmland on which the Club was built and now serves as an outdoor entertainment venue with the best view in East TN.
I’ve been writing about the golf industry for over twenty years and have found that many golf club sales are fueled by necessity and often lead to resentment between the two parties. This is not so at the Blackthorn Club. Neither party can find enough good things to say about the other! And with the former owners on site, Evergreen’s management staff has a wealth of knowledge at their fingertips.
What struck me about Blackthorn Club is the camaraderie between the members; it’s not the typical cliquish feel you find at many clubs. The relationship between the members and the staff is incredible and is built on mutual respect. It’s the type of club I’d want to belong to.
For more information on becoming a member, call them at (423) 913-3164 or visit www.blackthornclub.com
Brocket
By CLAUDIO DEMARCHI
Paddles & Putters
Golfing Magazine’s, Paddles & Putters Team has grown. We are very pleased to announce that our Product Review Team has 2 new members.
Kyle Hermetz: After only 3 years of playing pickleball, at 29, Kyle represented Team Canada at the Pickleball World Cup this past October in Fort Lauderdale. Back home, just west of Toronto, he is a leader on the York Yeti’s, competing professionally in the Canadian National Pickleball League. He sports a Dupr Rating of 5.8, and has attained Level 1 and Level 2 Certified Pickleball Coach. Kyle is dedicated to helping players elevate their game through structured training methods and game-based coaching. Although Kyle did play some racquet sports, he attributes his success
to his multi sports background provides him with the athleticism, hand eye coordination and game knowledge to make quick time decisions and understand in game strategy. Currently is sponsored by Skechers and plays the Franklin C45 Dynnasty 14mm Elongated Paddle. Paddle review below.
Holly Landers is an intermediate level pickle ball player, like the rest of us, with aspirations to “play better pickleball” and beat her husband, Tom. She has joined into the pickle ball craze, for the new friendship and community amongst players. She is a lifelong tennis and volleyball player. Outside for pickle ball she enjoys hiking, kayaking and paddle boarding.
Kyle Hermetz
Hot Paddles For You!
Paddletek Limited-Edition Reserve Honeyfoam™ No. 001
By Claudio
For the Bourbon drinker in me, I could not see how this could not be a good thing!
“Limited -Edition Reserve.” Maybe Single Barrell or Small Batch is next?
I will admit that in moving from a 19mm to a 14mm paddle, I had some concern. That did not last long! In no time at all I picked up on the benefits of Paddleteks first foam-based design.
The latest in technology, their proprietary multi-foam floating core is designed to expand the sweet spot and lengthen dwell time. There is no doubt the shock-arrestor Edge Guard help, absorbing impact, dampening any vibration and balls seam to rocket off the raw carbon hitting surface. Concern of moving from a spin/control paddle to the Reserve Honeyfoam, that did not last long either, working the ball, that same surface allows you to generate plenty of spin and all the control you want. Add confidence to your game. Get one while you can!
The Reserve Honeyfoam is a Limited Edition, priced at $249.99 and is available exclusively through Paddletek’s website and Pickleball Central while supplies last, with additional Reserve releases planned in the coming months. Paddletek began as a small family business inspired by a love for the game and a vision for improving paddle technology. They have now grown into one of the leading names in Pickleball, with a mission to help you reach that next level of play! www.Paddletek.com
By Kyle
When evaluating a paddle’s on-court performance, I focus on three key attributes: control, spin, and power. If I were to rank them in order of importance, it would be control first, followed by spin, and then power. I am confident in my ability to generate my own power, so I prioritize the elements that help me manage the pace of play and apply strategic pressure. Control allows me to slow the game down, execute high-percentage shots consistently, and avoid unnecessary pop-ups. Spin enables me to shape the ball effectively, create offensive opportunities, and force opponents into uncomfortable or defensive positions. The Franklin C45 Dynasty 14mm elongated paddle delivers on all three. I’ve always preferred thinner paddles because they allow me to generate strong drives without needing to swing at full effort. The 14mm core provides a responsive, lively feel while still maintaining the touch required for controlled play. The textured carbon surface offers significant grit, which I value highly. I can feel the ball engage with the face, making it easier to shape shots, apply spin, and maintain pressure throughout rallies. As a professional player in the Canadian National Pickleball League, customization is an important part of my setup. I tailor my paddles with added weight and overgrips to optimize performance for my game. With the 14mm C45 Dynasty’s stock weight ranging between 7.7–7.8 oz, it provides the perfect foundation for customization. I’m able to build it up to my preferred playing weight of 8.6 oz, achieving the stability and balance I look for at the highest level of competition. Overall, the Franklin C45 Dynasty 14mm elongated paddle offers an excellent blend of control, spin, and accessible power — making it a strong choice for players like me who value precision, customization, and aggressive shot-making.
www.FranklinSports.com/Sports/Pickleball
Franklin C45 Dynasty 14mm Elongated Pickleball Paddle
Gearbox Power Paddles the Company that brings you Power brings Precision and Control
By Claudio & Holly
GBX Power - Power and Precision too!
The newly released GBX Power is a Gen-3 Honeycomb paddle with an expanded sweet spot for consistency and control. The NEW SSTCore 2.0 Carbon Fibre Rib Core defines the future of paddle cores. Built differently it keeps the core from breaking down prematurely.
Playing this paddle, 16mm, with the elongated handle for a few weeks, I can confirm that power, control and consistency. Who doesn’t want control under pressure.
This will be subjective, but I know many people prefer longer handles these days. I find the 5.5″ handle length that Gearbox is using to be the perfect length, enabling smooth two-handed backhands whether at the baseline or the kitchen. The elongated paddle face also gives you some extra reach, power and control. Importantly the paddle’s consistent response gives you confidence whether defending, attacking or preparing to put away a wayward lob.
Coming from a Tennis background this Power paddle shines for me. It gives me the ability to drive with confidence and hit those precise shots and come out on top with mid court volleys and fast paced kitchen exchanges.
precise feel on dinks and a confidence builder on drops and resets. The revolutionary SST 2.0 CarbonRibCore™—the next generation of paddle technology stands out. From drives to dinks you can feel the energy. The power is akin to a launch from a trampoline on drives and punch volleys, in addition to providing you the dwell time to shape or spin the ball at will. All while maintaining stability and control. I personally love the elongated handle, it also available in the hybrid model.
I’ve really enjoyed playing with a Gearbox paddle. Delivering explosive power with precise control without sacrificing touch. It’s a winner in my books!.
Skechers More than just Shoes, It’s FASHION
By Holly, Kyle and Claudio Skechers Men’s Court Viper 2.0
“As a professional athlete in the Canadian National Pickleball League, I go through footwear at a high rate, so performance and longevity are critical. When evaluating pickleball shoes, I prioritize two key factors: comfort and durability.”
The Skechers Viper Court Pro 2.0 delivers on both. It features enhanced protection in high-wear areas—particularly where players commonly slide—along with strong arch support that contributes to overall stability and comfort during play. Additionally, the Goodyear rubber outsole provides exceptional durability, making it well-suited for the demands of competitive play.
With a range of modern color options, the Viper Court Pro 2.0 also offers a clean, athletic aesthetic. For players seeking a reliable,
If you are looking for a paddle that gives you forceful power, extended reach and precision spin the GBX Power would be the one for you. Well rounded strong performer.
GX2 Power – “Controlling the Energy with a face that is One Big Sweet Spot!”
You only get one chance to make a first impression, they say! My first experience with a Gearbox paddle, I suspect that it won’t be my last. Whether you are a power or a control player or perhaps a power player looking for a little more control this could be the paddle for you. I was particularly impressed with the
comfortable, and long-lasting pickleball shoe, and is machine washable. An excellent choice.
Skechers Slip-ins Viper Court Elite 2.0 is a strong option for players who value comfort, durability, and convenience. On court, the Goodyear outsole provides reliable traction and holds up well to aggressive movement and sliding. The shoe also offers solid stability, helped by its structured design and secure fit. Comfort is a standout feature. The Relaxed Fit gives extra room in the toe box, while the Arch Fit insole delivers noticeable support during long sessions. The hands-free Slip-in design makes getting the shoes on and off effortless without sacrificing lockdown.
I would personally recommend these to any player from the amateur to pro level.”
Pushing those Court Viper 2.0’s to the limit
Skechers Fashion Collection Comfort & Style
You know that the Skechers are the most comfortable shoes, you’ve got to think that it would be no different when it comes to sporting fashion. For the Skechers Pickleball Apparel Performance line, Skechers went right to the courts and teamed up with pickleball pros Tyson McGuffin and Catherine Parenteau to introduce a oneof-a-kind collection.
Tyson and Catherine were involved in all aspect of design with state-of-the-art print, bold color selection and materials that keep you cool while you are getting hot and sweaty. Their lineup blends all-day comfort with court-ready performance so you can move, compete, and look your best. Comfort made easy, setting a new standard for pickleball gear. The best part, Skechers keeps it affordable.
Men’s Ideas For You!
Digiwave 5 Inch Short: No need for undies here, they are built in! Double layered construction provides the ultimate in comfort and functionality. Each pair is crafted from our innovative SKECHWEAVE™ fabric for superb breathability and quick drying when you need it most. Featuring a drawcord elastic waistband, front slash pockets, back zipper pocket, and a geoprinted inner mesh short for coverage and support.
Skechers Performance™ Fade Tee: A perfect match for the Digiwave shorts. Providing all-day active comfort with silky smooth design. This short sleeve crewneck shirt is made from moisture-wicking GO DRI VAPOR™ ombre fabric and features flatlock seams and branding
at left chest.
Women’s Ideas for You!
Skechers Court Classics Short Sleeve Tee: crewneck t-shirt is made from exceptionally soft SKECH-JERSEY™ fabric and features a Skechers® tennis club graphic at left chest.
Skechers Performance™ Court Skort: designed in collaboration with professional pickleball player Catherine Parenteau, this athletic skirt/shorts combo showcases her professional court experience. The elasticated doubleknit waistband provides superior support to prevent rolling down during intense play. Made from lightweight SKECHWEAVE™ fabric, this dynamic piece features a breathable underlay short with pockets and mesh overlaps at side seams.
Skechers Performance™ Court Classic Polo Crew is a shortwaist pullover sweatshirt is made from breathable SKECHSWEATS™ French terry and features a flat knit collar and placket with contrast sport striping, ribbed cuffs and hem, plus a Skechers Performance™ logo graphic at center chest. Part of a coordinating apparel collection.
Viper Court Elite 2.0’
Protect Those Precious Eyes
By Claudio DeMarchi
Did you know - Over 47% of Pickleball players sustain eye injuries. Don’t be one of them!
From the makers of some of the best Paddles in the world....
Gearbox Vision Eyewear – Clear Vision and Anti Fog
It goes back to that same old thought process, if you don’t know that you are wearing them, they are a perfect fit. Needless to say, lightweight, with crisp clear vision, Anti-Scratch and the AntiFog coating, you are in business every time you are on the court. Playing indoors 95% of the time, being up here in Canada, I noticed the reduction in glare and better depth perception. Better vision will give you better timing, all important for those killer smashes.
The glasses are available in slim and regular (for big heads like mine) fit. You will love the adjustable nose bridge and temple arms rest comfortably above the ears.
For those playing outdoors and in need of sunglasses all lenses feature UV protection.
The Gearbox Vision Eyewear was designed with safety in mind. Tested for safety and loved by their professionals. Remember, you are only as good as your sight. www.GearboxSports.com
Joola Protective Eyewear
When you forget that you are wearing eyewear, you know that it is a perfect fit.
I was sent 2 pairs, the RJX Boost and the RJX Enhance, both with clear lenses as being in Canada we play indoor for a good portion of the year. They are also available as sunglasses. Ideal for golf as well. The Enhance is a full frame, I generally prefer the open bottom style, it was automatic that I went to the Boost first. For hour 2 of play I made the switch to the Enhance and absolutely delighted with the fact that there was virtually no difference in feel or perspective during play.
JOOLA RJX Enhance
A sleek design offers incredible comfort and durability. lightweight, designed specifically for pickleball. Featuring:
• Anti-reflective: Backside anti-reflective coating minimizes glare
from artificial light
• Enhanced color vision: AI-powered COLORBOOST™ lenses strengthen your awareness, sharpen target recognition, and boost overall reaction time by up to 25%
• Durable design: High-quality rubber that enhances grip strength
JOOLA RJX Boost - is the most complete pickleball eyewear ever created. Each pair of lenses uses revolutionary COLORBOOST™ lens technology. The artificial intelligence leveraged by COLORBOOST™ lenses are designed by proprietary software, that boosts the contrast between the ball and background, improving your competitive reaction time by upwards of 25%.
Joola’s team of engineers performed numerous successful impact tests to earn RJX-Boost a certified American National Standard (ANSI) rating of Z87.1, making RJX-Boost one of the safest pickleball glasses on the market today.
Both frames are comfortable, durable, and designed to keep you playing without worrying about your eyes. Give your vision the competitive edge it deserves, and take your game to the next level. www.Joola.com
Need to get a BETER GRIP On Your Game
Hesacore Grip and Hesatac Overgrip
You don’t need the over grip but it is my personal preference. For me it is such a solid comfortable feel. Who would have guessed that Hesacore’s patented Hexagonal Grip technology would prove to be the perfect ergonomic fit for the hand.
A few of things that really stand out for me are 1.) how it minimizes or absorbs vibration from those shots from bangers.
2.) the hexagon or honeycomb design gives a feel of exactly how the paddle sits in your hand, 3.) finally it might be slightly larger than your conventional grip, therefore no need to tighten on the grip, which should reduce the amount of wrist in your game. Tight grip and vibrations are traditional causes of injuries.
Hesatac Overgrip is designed for Hesacore’s signature grip system. Delivering comfort, precision, and sweat-proof performance for pickleball, tennis, and padel. www.Hesacore.com
Have Paddle Will Travel
The Scottsdale Resort & Spa: Golf & Pickleball Why would you want to go anywhere else?
Situated in the heart of McCormick Ranch, The Scottsdale Resort and Spa, Curio Collection by Hilton, more than Resort & Spa, it’s an escape, a portal to a world were relaxation and restoration reign supreme. Where your next story begins.
The McCormick Ranch has 2 courses, The Pine and The Palm,
offering up vast panoramic mountain vistas and sparkling lakes. The Palm Course has water in play on 10 holes, and the signature hole, number 9 has been featured in Golf Illustrated’s Top 18 Water Holes of America. Being located at the center of Scottsdale’s most iconic golf corridor you have 30 courses within reach Silverado Golf Club, Talking Stick Golf Club, Kierland Golf Club, and Camelback Golf Club to name a few.
Following a $40 million transformation in 2024, the resort has emerged as one of Scottsdale’s most deluxe resort retreats. This full-scale renovation includes all guestrooms, public spaces, and the debut of four distinct dining venues, blending historic charm with modern sophistication. Guests can enjoy Sonoran-inspired cuisine in La Fogata, The Madam Speakeasy, Barnaby’s Café & Wine Bar, and The Social Boardroom with interactive games. The upgraded fitness center and revitalized Luna Spa round out the experience with tranquility and rejuvenation. www.TheScottsdaleResort.com
CordeValle
Nestled in the countryside of San Martin, California, just 30 minutes south of San Jose, CordeValle is a golf lover’s dream and the ultimate choice for a golf vacation. Let me rephrase that, “a golf and pickleball vacation.”
Cordevalle Golf Club is the award-winning crown jewel of the resort. Tucked into the golden foothills of the Santa Cruz mountain range, the CordeValle Golf Club offers the quintessential Northern California golf experience. Designed by internationally acclaimed golf architect Robert Trent Jones Jr. Ranked #7 on Golfweek’s Best Courses You Can Play list, CordeValle has hosted many PGA TOUR events including the 2016 U.S. Women’s Open.
A little over a year ago, the luxury retreat announced the grand
opening of its new state-of-the-art 8,000 square-foot Pickleball facility, lounge, and training space. This exclusive outdoor facility adds eight pickleball courts to round out the four existing Plexicushion tennis tournament courts, two crushed oyster shell Bocce courts, a viewing area, lounge, outdoor patio, and entertainment space for members and guests.
For more information about CordeValle and its luxury offering, please visit www.CordeValle.com
Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort
Where the sugar-white quartz sand meets emerald-green waters of Florida’s Emerald Coast. More things to do and styles of accommodations that you can’t help but feel at home. One feel good experience after another.
Voted #3 Best Resort in Florida & #50 Best Resort in the World - Condé Nast Travelers Readers’ Choice Award 2025. On the Courts: You will find yourself in a most picturesque and welcoming atmosphere. Six well maintain pickleball courts await, along with 12 world-class HydroGrid clay and three hard tennis courts. Players of all skill levels welcome, you will find friendly competition and camaraderie. Lesson’s, clinics and round robin play is available for all to improve their play.
Sandestin offers some of the best of Florida Golf with the accolades to prove it! Many holes featuring stunning views of Choctawhatchee Bay. 4 courses on site, Baytowne Golf Club, The Links, Burnt Pine and my personal favorite Raven Golf Club. This Robert Trent Jones Jr. stunner, traditional in style, carved through marshes and pine trees providing challenging shot options for those who dare.
Scottsdale Resort & Spa
CordeValle
Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort
Accolades include:
• 4 1/2 stars, Golf Digest “Places To Play”
• #14 in Florida, The Best Courses Near You, GOLF Magazine
• #39 Best Tour Courses You Can Play, Golfweek Magazine www.sandestin.com
Saddlebrook Resort
Putting on the Final touches to a $100
Million Transformation
The latest chapter is already in motion for the iconic Saddlebrook Resort The resort just north of Tampa Bay, considered a destination within itself known for world-class golf, tennis, leisure and group getaways.
The renovation, restoration and upgrades have touched every aspect of the resort, from the lobby, accommodations, restaurants, event spaces, outdoor areas, swimming pools and most importantly for anyone reading this is the pickleball courts and golf courses. Renowned golf course architect Rees Jones has undertaken the redesign of Saddlebrook’s courses. There are now 41 tennis courts, 8 pickleball courts, a fitness center for cardio and strength training, a spa, plus a planned multi-court Padel area, and more. Saddlebrook’s legendary fairways are entering a bold new era. Under the direction of renowned designer Rees Jones, our courses are being revitalized to enhance playability, aesthetics, and overall experience, while honoring their original spirit. The first milestone is here: the Oak Course has officially debuted, featuring refreshed greens, reimagined bunkers, and a layout designed to
challenge and delight golfers of all levels. This is just the beginning of Saddlebrook’s multi-course transformation, set against the backdrop of our iconic Florida landscape. www.Saddlebrook.com
The Backyard of My Dreams and Maybe Yours? My or Your Own Pickleball Court
The Pickleball Management Group rolled one out in no time at the Toronto Golf Show this past February. They can have one “Court-Ready” in most places in as little as a day! California based, with a Canadian office in Calgary, Alberta, they offer affordable solutions when it comes to Pickleball Courts, be it for a backyard, a parking lot or even a school yard.
The system provides a PickleDeck Sub-floor topped with a Premium Rollout Surface for Competition Grade performance. What I find remarkable is that there is no major evacuation or concrete needed and it can be moved. Should anyone require accessories they can provide those as well.
With decades of equipment product development and event management expertise they also provide permanent courts. Endorsed by: USA Pickleball, APP Tour, Pickleball Canada and the US Open Pickleball Championships. www.pickleballmanagement.com
Contact: Scott Winters: scott@pickleballmanagement.com or Charlie Hauser: charlie@pickleballmanagement.com
Saddlebrook Resort