Springfield Golf & Country Club
2025 Board of Directors
John Astorino
President john.astorino@longandfoster.com
Bob Sampson Vice President bsampson71@gmail.com
Tom Stribling Secretary tjstribling@gmail.com
Dan McCarthy Treasurer danm5691@gmail.com
David DeLorenzo david.delorenzo@gmail.com
Joe English jenglish@bsbllc.com
David Kelly davidnkelly@verizon.net
Charles Rolen rolencw@gmail.com
Harrison Smith hharrisonsmith@gmail.com
2025 Committees
Audit
Dave Nachison dnachison@yahoo.com
Communications
Katie Kissal katiekissal@gmail.com
Facilities & Maintenance
Peter Vogt gmte1e6@verizon.net
Finance
Dan McCarthy danm5691@gmail.com
Fitness
Gayle Burgoyne gayleburgoyne@aol.com
Food & Beverage
John Palladino jape199@aol.com
Golf
Matt Lougheed matthew.lougheed@gmail.com
Golf Rules
Bruce Nordstrom bnorthstream@yahoo.com
Charles Rolen rolencw@gmail.com
Greens Tom Stribling tjstribling@gmail.com
Dan Derisio dderisio@yahoo.com
House John Palladino jape199@aol.com
Membership Johnny Garstka johnnygarstka2024@gmail.com
Charles Rolen rolencw@gmail.com
Personnel
Bob Sampson bsampson71@gmail.com
Racquets
Staci Goede staci.goede@gmail.com
Harrison Smith hharrisonsmith@gmail.com
Social Natalee Siveroni nataleesiveroni@gmail.com
Marie Denslow a93aggie@gmail.com
Strategic Planning
David DeLorenzo david.delorenzo@gmail.com
Swim/Pool
Mike Goede goedes@me.com
General Manager's Message
BY STEVE LAWSON, CCM | GENERAL MANAGER
It’s officially busy season at SGCC! Our departments are firing on all cylinders and ready for a full season ahead: golf leagues are underway, Interclub play has begun in the Racquets Department, new strength and functional equipment arrived in the Fitness Center, and the F&B department launched the new spring menu.
This time of year brings renewed energy and excitement with flowers in full bloom, twilight play on the fairways, and more faces on the Patio enjoying the warm weather. Over the next three months, something is happening at Springfield every week. The Staff has worked incredibly hard in preparing and planning dynamic and elevated programming to enhance your Club experience.
May
The month will begin with greens aerification following the Member/Member tournament. While at times disruptive to play, aeration is critical to turf health and vitality. This work promotes root growth, improves oxygen levels, and enhances drainage, ensuring the greens are strong enough to withstand summer heat and increased foot traffic. The F&B team is hosting a plethora of events all month long including the Derby Party, Vintage Car Show, Rosé Tasting, and a Clos du Val Wine Tasting. Celebrate the moms in your life with Mother’s Day Brunch and Chef Lindsay’s beautiful cupcake bouquet. Don’t forget our summer music series, Music on the Patio, begins this month with Evan Ross on May 16. Additionally, the Kid Fit program at the Fitness Center will continue and conclude this month. The unofficial start of summer will kick off with the opening of the Pool and the Memorial Day Picnic, before we close the month with the first ever Club-wide Dodge Ball Tournament!
June
School is out for the summer! Break isn’t complete without camp, and there are some for all interests including Camp SGCC, Tennis and Pickleball Camp, Art and Movement Camp, Half Day Art Camp, and Golf and Tennis Camp. Our Ladies Member Guest tournaments for both golf and racquets will be held this month along with the 3-Day Member/Guest Tournament. The Pool will be hopping with swim team practice and meets, as well as the return of water aerobics. June also brings the Adult Pickleball Party and Kids Pool Party, so get ready to celebrate and have fun no matter your age!
July
Mid-summer brings our most popular Club event: the annual Independence Day Picnic and fireworks display. We are excited to share how we are continuing to make this gathering better each year, so be sure to join us to see what’s in store! The Bobby Bowers Memorial Tournament will commemorate its 50-year milestone, and the annual Wimbledon Grass Court Exhibition is back for its fourth year. The month will conclude with the golf Junior Club Championship, a bus trip to the Citi Open, and the President’s Cup.
There are so many opportunities in the weeks ahead to meet new friends and celebrate the connection, community, and culture of Springfield. Come try a new event, sport, clinic, or class; we have something for everyone.
Lastly, I’d like to thank the Membership. We cannot do what we do as a Staff without the incredible support and participation from each of you. I especially want to express my gratitude for our committee and association volunteers for the time and service they give to make our Club better. We collectively get to make and mold Springfield into what it is becoming, and it would not be possible without the Membership’s contributions. I look forward to seeing you around SGCC and am excited for you to experience what makes Springfield special!
Turf Talk
BY SHAWN GILL | GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENT
Remember all that spring excitement I spoke about last month? It has now turned into sheer exhaustion for me and my entire staff. A good exhaustion, I might add!
There are so many things that had to be finished in a short time; the crew has to truly become one and help each other with everything, at every turn. Whether it is lifting, opening, and loading six tons of fertilizer into a tractor-mounted spreader, or clearing a green prior to mowing that is completely submerged in those goofy oak buds that look like tiny snakes, everybody needs a hand at times.
We may have different tasks to complete each day but we all have the same job: “present the Membership with the best facility possible.” That is a mantra we live by in the Greens Department and means looking beyond your morning assignment and noticing anything that needs attending to, and either taking care of it right then or at least reporting it to a supervisor so it can be addressed. It means that when you blow debris off of a green, don’t stop after the surface is clean and get on with your mowing, but recognize that the bunker will need to be cleaned before raking and you can help things move along smoothly by blowing that too. It means moving the rakes into and out of the bunkers while changing the hole locations so the time-consuming operation of mowing the rough around the greens on a Friday morning can be completed without the mower operator repeatedly stopping his machine to do it all himself. It means picking up those sticks that fell from one of our aging trees, even though you were tasked with mowing the step-cut around greens.
I love it when I see someone come in with debris overflowing the back of their cart after completing a greens mowing assignment. That is someone saying, “I care.” We are more than a cohesive team in the Greens Department; we are a family.
Thanks to all of this teamwork, we have managed to complete the crucial operations that will help set us up for a successful year. In addition, we spent some time, and quite a bit of your money, on adding high quality sand to bunkers that were in need. This is something that will continue throughout the season as we identify the areas that need “tuning up” to provide consistency.
When you read this, we will have hosted one of the qualifying events for the 2025 U.S. Women’s Open, and I can tell you that we presented challenging and fair conditions that will reward the deserved with a chance at greatness. The rough woke up early this year and has gotten pretty thick, and just as in The Open, players will want to find the fairway to have a chance to get the ball on our difficult greens.
Immediately following the qualifier, we will have our Member/ Member tournament over the first weekend in May. In my opinion, this is the best time for golf around here. Things are firm and fast “down the middle” and lush and long outside of that, so for an event for those who know this course inside out, it is perfect timing.
As with the rest of my staff, I’ve got to get out there and lend a hand, so I apologize for the short article this month. This is the time of the year where things turn to daily prep and become a bit rote, but still very challenging from a time management standpoint. I’m going to head out now to cut new holes on the greens this morning (something that we do every day that we are open during the golf season). It’s how I get my workout without having to pay for a gym membership! Hey, that gets me thinking, how many of you have ever watched a hole location being changed? I’ll bet not too many. If you ever get the inkling to see just what is involved or even want to try your hand at the operation, I’d love to have the opportunity to show you first hand. Just swing by any morning at zero dark thirty and tag along.
Time to go check out another stunning sunrise here at Springfield!
See you out there!
Coach's Corner
BY BRANDEN BEETS | DIRECTOR OF RACQUET SPORTS
I just got back from the Directors Club of America’s 2025 Retreat down in Boca Raton, Florida, and wow—what an experience. It was held over three days at Boca West Country Club, which is ranked as one of the top 15 private clubs in the world. There were about 250 leaders in the racquets industry there, and honestly, I felt honored to be in the room.
There were a lot of great takeaways, but one moment really stuck with me. The General Manager of Boca West, Matthew Linderman, was asked how it feels to be in one of the most high-profile roles in our industry. His response?
“It’s nice to be important, but more important to be nice.”
Simple words—but they hit hard, and I’ve been thinking about them ever since. My journey as a Director of Racquets is still unfolding. Every time I attend one of these events, I leave feeling energized—grateful to learn from others, connect with peers, and check in with myself about how I can keep growing.
Being the Director of Racquets here at Springfield? It’s a big deal. And I don’t take it lightly. But at the end of the day, we’re in the hospitality business first—and racquets second. Sure, I want our Members to get better at tennis or pickleball, but just as important is how we make them feel during that process.
Did I smile during the lesson? Did we share a laugh? Did they leave the court feeling better than when they showed up?
That’s what really matters.
Now, I’m not saying it’s always easy. I’ll be the first to admit this can be a tough balance, especially with our high-performance juniors. Those kids are driven. They train hard, they have goals, and they’re on a fast track. My job is to push them, challenge them, and help them grow, and yeah, sometimes that means making them a little uncomfortable. But even then, how we do it matters. Development can be hard, even frustrating at times, but respect and kindness should never go out the window.
The same goes for how we treat our Staff and each other around the Club. I’ve never once had a conversation with our General Manager, Steve Lawson, where he didn’t smile and treat me with kindness. Even on days when I know he’s got a million things going on, he still makes me feel like I matter. That’s the kind of leadership I look up to—and the kind I try to model in all my interactions.
At the end of the day, this is why I love what I do. Sure, I enjoy crushing a forehand or battling through a tough match, but what really fills my cup is the people. The relationships. The chance to make someone’s day better.
So, here’s one of my takeaways from the retreat—and one I hope sticks with me for the long haul: every interaction, big or small, is a chance to be kind. And that’s what truly makes the difference.
Meet Me at the Gym
BY MOLLY FIELD | COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE
Does the gym intimidate you? When I list a few muscle nicknames (not Greek letters)—Abs Bis Delts Glutes Pecs Traps—and start talking about how they either push or pull do you pretend your phone is ringing?
There is a lot to be gained from going to the gym: agility, core strength, endurance, and disease prevention, just to name a few. But what that really all boils down to is longevity.
Longevity is based on a few standard indicators all having to do with being able to get up off the ground after a fall. Try standing up from a lying down position without using your hands or your knees. Can you do it? Once you master that, build up to doing it without crossing your ankles! Another test of your longevity is balancing on one leg. When you start to feel wobbly, can you carefully balance your weight without over-correcting? Other indicators of longevity include grip and wrist strength (for when you find yourself like Tom Cruise holding on to the landing gear of a helicopter over the ocean) and your stride length while you calmly evade enemy pursuit to avoid attracting attention.
I know the gym can be a bit daunting, but your future self will thank you for facing your fears. Think of it like this, when you make your bed in the morning, the care you show will be waiting for you when you’re the most tired: at bedtime. No one knows the way a day will unroll; a trying experience could be in the wings, but a comfortable bed to come home to is a gift you give to yourself. The same can be said of your physical health: what you do today will make tomorrow easier, both physically and mentally.
Whether or not you know the difference between self-propelled equipment (treadmill) or people-propelled equipment (rowing machine), performing physical exercise is like unlocking your body’s pharmacy. You don’t have to turn into a gym rat or master a tuck jump or Bulgarian split squat to start reaping the rewards of exercise. Just 30 minutes a day, a few times a week, will lead to improved mood, complexion, posture, cognition, and sleep.
So, what do you say? I hope it is something along the lines of “Okay! Fine! I will take better care of this singular, fragile, and fleeting life! I’ll go to the gym!” Yay, we can’t wait to see you there!
Before we get started, a quick note about etiquette: people come to the gym to work out, so if you do socialize, be mindful so others can get in and out; disinfect each piece of equipment you use; refrain from dropping weights (if you can’t lower it quietly, you’re lifting too much); and keep your phone use to an absolute minimum (leave the gym floor if you must take a call). Camera use is discouraged unless it benefits your workout; remember, everyone deserves privacy.
The best part of having a gym at our country club is its hours: 5:30 AM to 10:00 PM on weekdays and 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM on weekends. If you’re feeling a little overwhelmed, the middle of a weekday is when it's calmer so you can take your time. Actually getting to the gym is the hard part. Find a time when both your body and schedule are up for it and before you know it, you’ll have a habit and a spring in your step!
Since lots of people (not just you!) are intimidated by the gym, in February, Reggie Edwards, Angelica Imaca, and Michaele Silverberg hosted “Newcomers on Weights” (NOW), a program to demystify gym equipment for Members seeking more confidence around a weight room. I checked in with several of the attendees who all agreed that NOW was a great idea and very helpful. Chiharu Rust explained, “Weight rooms are intimidating—especially for those of us who were brought up without these high-tech machines…With the wonderful help and assistance from the staff and Reggie, I am becoming comfortable using these new machines and I will be a gym user from now on!” That’s great, Chiharu!
“I was very pleased with the NOW event at our gym,” said Michael Locke. “It was interactive! We all tried the equipment with the settings adjusted to our individual needs and to learn proper form. The staff and volunteers were terrific! I feel much more confident about using the weights and equipment.” Nicky Polis agreed—she told me that each attendee received a folder with a log sheet and information on bodyweight work, too. She said the event was “very encouraging” and she’d like to see “a few more repeats and expansions on the program,” which got me thinking—what if some of these peeps got together and met up for workouts?
A lack of knowledge about what equipment to use and how to use it safely is probably why a lot of people don’t head to the gym for their fitness. It can feel complicated. Christine Smith said, “NOW was a great introduction to the weightlifting machines and how they work each muscle group. Even better, I learned what settings I needed and how to properly use them. It was also a great chance to meet our Fitness Director, Reggie, and I met a few Members who had similar interests.”
That’s why we’re all SGCC Members, right? To meet other people of similar interests. Peter Ohlhausen, who also attended, shared a similar perspective: “SGCC has a beautiful gym, but I’m a novice in that world and didn’t know where to start. NOW was a fun, easygoing introduction to our weight equipment. Plus, I got to meet some nice Club Members that I didn’t know before! Now I look forward to using the gym more often and getting the most out of my visits.” And we look forward to seeing you more often, Peter!
Margaret and Andrew Heinbaugh agree that NOW provided a welcome opportunity to reacquaint themselves with the machines and lifting. “Since COVID, and as newbie empty nesters, we’ve been looking for new challenges in our second act. Look out, gym-bros!” Margaret added.
So, let’s take a little tour of our gym, shall we? I’ll meet you at the Fitness Desk at the bottom of the stairs where you’ll find our fabulous Fitness Desk Attendants (Hi, Justin! Hi, Jackie!) and Reggie’s office. Here is where you’ll check in upon arrival, get a locker key if you need one, pick up gym wipes to wipe down the equipment after you use it (and a freshly laundered towel to give yourself a wipe down!), and leave a message for Reggie if he’s not in. The Fitness Desk also has an assortment of post-workout and recovery nutrition options for purchase (Hey, Justin, would you put a Pure Protein bar on my account, please?). In case of emergencies, please note that our staff is CPR-certified and we have an AED device on hand. Down the hallway to left are the locker rooms and massage room, and to the right, of course, is the gym!
If you’ve been away, you’re in for a surprise! We just installed a whole new set of weight and resistance machines. One of the first machines you’ll notice is the half-rack with SGCC-branded bumper plates. Despite its appearance, it’s a life-enhancing machine instead of that “years-away” torture machine in the Princess Bride. This rack is all business, and its singular goal is to improve your health. While we have every confidence you’re going to feel right at home in no time, we understand that you might want to go up to this machine and introduce yourself first. Rest assured, it’s as friendly as you are.
Reggie Edwards, Director of Fitness
Justin Nix, Fitness Desk Attendant
Jackie O'Shea, Fitness Desk Attendant
Immediately next to the half-rack is a glute drive and then to the right of that is our Smith Machine. The machines we've upgraded are fundamentally the same: they are YOUpowered, so let’s get to work! All the cardio equipment, which we upgraded two years ago, is the same.
Across from the half-rack, you'll find other strength and resistance machines which offer equally impressive workouts and are easily negotiable because the weight loads are safely encased in the design of the machine so that when you adjust for your workout, you won’t have to lift anything; you just pull on a handle and reset it. That will be the easiest part of your work! These machines allow you to perform the work while seated, so they are very good if you’re coming off a surgery or have balance issues. They also ensure safe range of motion so you don’t overextend a joint, tendon, or ligament. Their weight settings go from “let’s see what this baby can do” to “master of the universe.”
The seated chest press machine offers a fantastic chest workout without getting into push-up position. But remember, even though you’re seated, you still need to activate your core!
Behind the seated chest press is an abdominal crunch machine. That’s right! In case you wanted more ways to do a “sit up” (crunch), here it is! You can keep that pin where it is for my load. I’ll get on that later.
Moving deeper into the gym, you'll find the hamstring or leg curl machine. It works the backs your thighs and a little of your calves. The machine on other side is the leg extension machine which works the other side of your thighs: your quadriceps and the front of the hips.
machines from left: Half-Rack, Glute Drive, and Smith Machine
Close Up of Bumper Plates on the Half-Rack
Seated Chest Press
The Nautilus multi-station cable [and pulley] machine is an allin-one with stations that exercise specific parts of your body. The secondary benefit of machines like this is core maintenance because you’re standing while performing the work. Compared to the previous version of this machine, our new one is like the Taj Mahal. If you look at the floor space between these two components in the photo or in person, you will see the old unit’s footprint. Stand there and look up to take in the glorious pull up bar. This machine is considered an all-in-one thingamajig with pulleys, cables, grips, and cuffs to work your core as you stand or perform floor work. Pull in your belly to your spine and press your spine toward your belly to engage all your power and get to work! No slouching!
Across from the cable machine is the corner of the gym where we keep more of the heavy stuff: free weights, barbells, dumbbells, kettlebells, plates, bars, resistance, and more. Remember, the mirror is there to help you check your form; proper form is crucial (we already know you're cute!).
Oh! Today is a cardio day? Nice! The back left section of the gym houses our cardio equipment where you’ll find the infamous, glute-busting “StairMaster” amid our collection of total body workouts in the elliptical and adaptive motion trainers. The StairMaster and our treadmills are the only machines we have that are self-propelled by a motor. On everything else, you are the motor. Our recumbent and spin bikes sit between the ellipticals and the cable machine.
What’s my favorite cardio machine you ask? I’m a fiend for the “ARC” trainer. I am a truth teller: it’s punishing, but that’s why I love it. It works your entire body if you let it and its screen details what body part you’re redesigning. I’m efficient. No offense, but my objective in entering a gym is to exit it. Earlier this century, I saw my gym mantra on Nike t-shirt: “If you’d started when you said you were, you’d be finished by now.” I still haven’t found that shirt online. Hello?
If you’re an elliptical junkie or want to be, form is everything. When using an elliptical, your weight needs to be in your heels (just like in a squat or on a rowing machine). If you use the moving handles too, the elliptical demand is much harder (and thus more effective than a bike or a treadmill). Heels down, shoulders above hips, and really push and pull the handles! If your ribs ache a bit the next day, you did it right. I dig these machines because I get into a rhythm and time goes by. Performing intervals on any aerobic machine crushes the clock.
Let’s scoot over to the left from the ellipticals and behold… all the treadmills overlook the beautiful outdoors! Today, we had some tennis training to watch and entertain us. If you’d rather watch a show, you can do that. All the screens are connected to the Club’s entertainment network. These treadmills are
Leg Curl
Cable Machine
excellent, smooth, responsive, and quiet machines. The humans are the noisiest part of a treadmill. Heck, they’re the noisiest part of a gym! Rain or snow, wind or scorching temperatures, our treadmills are ready. I love a good HIIT session on a treadmill. Here’s a funny story… In April 2016, my family took a cruise to the Bahamas for spring break. The gym was on the top floor of the ship (the broadest sway span) and the treadmills faced the windows which overlooked very moody seas with 10'-20’ waves and impressive white caps. I recall watching the horizon line dip above and below the window seam by about two inches as I found myself heading toward the treadmill dashboard and then hanging on to its railings as the floating metropolis tested my resolve. It was crazy. I finished my run though!
Ready for a stretch? Heading back toward the Fitness Desk, the stretch zone is essentially where it has always been, near the glass wall facing our indoor tennis courts. Stretching is all the rage; it feels so good, and it increases your circulation, improves breathing awareness, and can positively affect your mood and sleep. It’s in this area where you will find your fellow Members stretching, cooling down, holding a plank, on the rowing machine, working their core on a stability ball (the large ones in the way back), or using a medicine ball (the smaller ones on the little tower center left) or resistance bands.
This is how a good gym is laid out: specific machines targeting specific goals in specific areas. At press time, we are still awaiting the TRX suspension bay. What’s a “TRX suspension bay” you ask? Let’s see… think of Tom Cruise parachuting from an airplane but like he’s a marionette. You’re suspended… It’s truly you against gravity. It’s amazingly informative and I think it’s fun (when it’s over)! TRX is all about agility, core, and your stabilizers. You can fit a TRX set in a box for size 14 Air Jordans and then you can take it anywhere! I knew you were wondering about that.
As we age, miracles happen with weight training: we improve bone density; we improve memory function; we improve coordination and balance. Everything becomes more do-able, less impossible.
At the SGCC gym, we have it all: cardio, strength, stretch, resistance…. The only thing missing is you. If this article hasn’t been enough to get you over your gym-timidation, consider setting up a complimentary assessment with one of our personal trainers or, even better, signing up for the next installation of Newcomers On Weights (date TBA!). Don’t let a little nervousness now hold you back from giving your future self the life it deserves, especially when our staff is more than happy to help you get comfortable with the space and equipment!
Glimpse of Cardio Machines: Ellipticals, Recumbent Bikes
Treadmills with a View!
Membership Corner
BY SHELLY GOOREVICH MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR
Please join me in welcoming some of our newest Member families:
Will Jones grew up in West Springfield, VA with four brothers and sisters. He loves spending time with family, watching sports, and performing live music with his friends. He lives with his fiancée, Jamie Lewis, and their seven-month-old son, Avery, in Vienna. Will has over a decade of experience working at startups as a product designer for web and mobile experiences, most recently JOOLA, a global leader in pickleball products. He also loves side projects, and recently released a mobile golf app to be used on courses around the world.
Jamie is originally from Long Island, NY, but was raised in Kohler, WI. She works as a Senior Digital Analyst at Marriott International managing paid advertising campaigns across all of Marriott’s global brands. Before moving to Virginia for work in 2021, Jamie popped into a live music venue on a whim only to meet Will, who just happened to be the one on stage playing. A lifelong tennis enthusiast, Jamie is excited to get involved in the SGCC tennis community. Outside of work and tennis, she’s passionate about travel, cooking, and is a true foodie. Jamie also enjoys relaxing with a good TV marathon and cherishes time spent with little Avery and the rest of her family.
Nick Post was born and raised in Reston, VA, and currently resides in Arlington. He graduated from Clemson University in SC, where he studied management and was a member of the lacrosse team. Currently, Nick leads a Human Resources Department for a local government contractor. You will most likely find Nick on the golf course or enjoying the atmosphere and offerings in the lounge.
Scott and Diane Story were married at the end of 2024.
Nick Post
Will Jones and Jamie Lewis with son, Avery
Scott and Diane Story
Diane, originally from Los Angeles, has lived in Springfield for the past 10 years. Scott, a Maryland native and avid golfer, knew that after they tied the knot, he’d need to find a new club to call home. Throughout their relationship, Diane spent many hours waiting for him to finish rounds at golf courses across the country, so she is thrilled he will be just a mile from home.
Scott works as a mortgage banker with First Home Mortgage, while Diane is a real estate investor and wine industry professional. Hayden is currently finishing his sophomore year at West Springfield High School, and Grayson will begin his freshman year there this fall. You can find Hayden on the football field or watching F1. Grayson will be inspecting beehives, fishing, or tending to his chickens. Both are looking forward to their first pool season at the Club!
Scott Weinstein is originally from Westchester, NY. He moved to the area to attend Georgetown University and has stuck around ever since. Tory was born in Toronto, raised in Pennsylvania, and came to the DC area for her first job as a physician after training in Pittsburgh and Boston. Scott and Tory met in 2020 and were married in March 2024 on the Wharf in Washington, DC. They live in Arlington and enjoy hiking, running, weightlifting, skiing, and ice hockey. Of all their sports, they love golf the most, and are looking forward to improving their game! They also love to travel and explore new places and foods. Scott is corporate counsel at Amazon, and Tory is an anesthesiologist at Inova Fairfax.
Jenn and Christian Whitaker met while attending James Madison University and were married in 2002. Jenn, a product of Lake Braddock high school (1994), and Christian, a graduate of Herndon High School (1994), have lived in Burke since 2005. Christian is an engineer and executive with JLL, a real estate management services firm, and Jenn is a licensed Realtor. Their three sons, Holden (17), Emerson (15), and Fletcher (11), attend Lake Braddock Secondary and Cherry Run Elementary. The boys and the family pup Eleanor all enjoy traveling, biking, skiing, baseball, and fitness, and Jenn is also an avid dancer. They are looking forward to getting to know the SGCC community and getting much better at golf.
Shawn and Kristin Whitman live in Alexandria and their family is excited to join SGCC. Kristin is from Northern Virginia and Shawn grew up on a cattle ranch in Wyoming, but they have lived in Alexandria for more than 20 years. They have two
Jenn, Christian, Holden, Emerson, and Fletcher Whitaker
Scott and Tory Weinstein
Shawn, Kristin, Lauren, and Katherine Whitman
daughters, Lauren (17) and Katherine (14), who attend Bishop Ireton High School. Lauren is involved in field hockey, student council, and Congressional Awards. Katherine is an avid tennis player and joined the Ireton women’s team as a freshman this school year. They enjoy traveling, the outdoors, hunting, fishing, and spending time with their Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs.
James Yates is a native of Los Angeles, and moved to the area for law school eight years ago. He and his wife, Mary, a Northern Virginia native, live in DC and stay busy with work but manage to sneak in some fresh air and sunshine every now and then. On weekends, James will be on the course, while Mary will be poolside with a drink in hand.
James and Mary Yates
Bridge Banter
BY DON FREDERICK
The May flowers are beautiful here at our Club, but plenty of activities are taking place indoors, too. Do you play bridge? If yes, come join the SGCC First-and-Third Friday Evening Bridge Group at one of our upcoming events!
We play relaxed, party bridge on the first and third Friday evenings of each month. Many of us gather for dinner first. If you’d like to join us, call Don Frederick at 703.425.9722. Our next scheduled evenings are May 2, May 16, and June 6.
Here are the results of our recent sessions:
APRIL 4
First: Lydia Peck and John Korfonta
Second: Ellen and Charles Rolen
Third: Robin Alapas and Kit Weyers
APRIL 18
First: Betsy and Roy Carter
Second: Ken Silverberg and Dave Voss
Third: Ellen and Charles Rolen
CLUBHOUSE CLOSED MONDAYS
BURGER FEATURE WEDNESDAYS
HAPPY HOUR THURSDAYS, 5:30-7:30 PM
FRIDAY BUFFET, 5:00-9:00 PM
Cinco de Mayo Buffet 5:00 - 9:00 PM Ladies Night Out 6:00 - 9:30 PM
An Agave Affair III 7:00 - 9:00 PM Clos du Val Wine Tasting 6:00 - 7:30 PM Member/Member Tournament
Member/Member Tournament Ladies Golf Clinic 2:00 - 3:00 PM Kentucky Derby Party 5:00 PM
Men's Twilight League Draft 6:00 PM Vintage Car Show 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM Rosé Tasting 3:00 - 6:00 PM Couples Golf Clinic 4:00 - 5:30 PM Mother's Day Brunch 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 12:00 PM, & 1:00PM BOD Ringer BOD Ringer Memorial Day Picnic 5:00 - 9:00 PM
Learn More About Our May Events...
CINCO DE MAYO BUFFET 5:00 - 9:00 PM
Themed Cocktails and Buffet. Please Make a Dining Reservation.
LADIES NIGHT OUT 6:00 - 9:30 PM
An Evening of Tennis, Buffet Dinner, and Parlor Games Benefiting Reading is Fundamental of Northern Virginia. Registration Required, $52.50/person. 3-4 MEMBER/MEMBER TOURNAMENT
Four-Ball Match Play. Fields Split into Flights by Combined Handicap. Tee Times on Saturday, Shotgun Start and Championship Shoot Out on Sunday. Register on GolfGenius. 3 LADIES GOLF CLINIC 2:00 - 3:00 PM
Perfect for Women Golfers of All Skill Levels. Designed to Provide a Relaxed, Social Learning Experience While You Improve Your Golf Fundamentals. Registration Required. 3 KENTUCKY DERBY PARTY 5:00 PM
Themed Beverages and Bites in the Lounge. Prizes for Best Dressed and Best Bonnet. Registration Requested.
5-7
MEN'S TWILIGHT LEAGUE DRAFT 6:00 PM
12 Teams of 9 Players, 2 Divisions of 6 Teams. Each Week, Captains Field Teams of 6. Better Ball Match Play.
Members Will Team Up with Our SGCC Racquets
Professionals for this Fun Event with Singles, Doubles, and Mixed Doubles Divisions. Whose Team will have Bragging Rights this Year?!
A Fun Complimentary Event for All Ages with Vintage Cars, Kids Activities, and More. Registration Required. Want to Participate with Your Car? Email burgoynes@aol.com.
$20 to Taste; Tasting Fee Waived with Purchase of Two or More Bottles.
Why Take Golf Advice from Your Spouse when You can Leave it to the Professionals? Join Us for a Lighthearted Couples Golf Clinic—Our Version of Golf Marriage Counseling! Registration Required.
Seating Available at 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 12:00 PM, and 1:00 PM. Jacket and Registration Required. Adults, $48++ | Kids (511), $20++ | 4 and Under Complimentary
Learn About and Taste a Selection of Tequila: Teremana Blanco, Tres Generaciones Reposado, and Maestro Dobel Añejo, Barrel F1. Registration Required. $25++
OF DIRECTORS RINGER
Individual Stroke Play, Ringer (Best Score on Each Hole Over Two Days). Gross and Net Contest. Register on GolfGenius.
Registration Required, $45++. Includes Light Fare.
Make New Friends, Float on a Raft, Grab a Snack from the Sea Lion Café, and Enjoy a Game of Laser Tag from 5:00-8:00 PM!
Picnic Buffet, Bounce Houses, Live Music, and Cornhole Competition. Open Seating after 3:00 PM; No Reservations, Tables are Limited and First-Come, First-Served. Registration Required for Food.
Tee Time Lottery Applies. Clubhouse Open for Breakfast and Lunch..
On the Indoor Tennis Courts. Members will Form Teams of 6 Players. Signature Drinks and Food Items will be Available. Registration Required.
CLUBHOUSE
FRIDAY
Learn More About Our June Events...
ADULT PICKLEBALL PARTY 6:30 - 9:00 PM
Competitive Play, Social Games, Taco Bar & Dessert, Drinks by Chit. Registration Required, $30++
WGA-18 CHAIRMAN'S CUP
7-8
11
11-12
14
KIDS POOL PARTY 1:00 - 5:00 PM
Celebrate the Start of Summer Vacation at the Pool with an Obstacle Course! This Event is Complementary, No Registration Needed.
LADIES GOLF MEMBER/GUEST
Welcome to the Jungle! Cocktail Party Wednesday, June 11. Tournament, Thursday, June 12. Registration Required.
LADIES TENNIS MEMBER/GUEST
It's a Garden Party! Light Breakfast, Gifts, and Awards Lunch. Prizes for Flight Winners and Best Dressed. Registration Required, $100++
LADIES GOLF CLINIC 2:00 - 3:00 PM
14
16
19-21
26
Perfect for Women Golfers of All Skill Levels. Designed to Provide a Relaxed, Social Learning Experience While You Improve Your Golf Fundamentals. Registration Required.
SUMMER CAMPS BEGIN
For Details About Camps, Including Pricing and Dates, See Pages 27-31.
3-DAY GOLF MEMBER/GUEST
Golf Course Closes to Non-Participants at 4:00 PM on Thursday, June 19. It is Closed During the Tournament.
MUSIC AT THE POOL 6:00 - 10:00 PM
Featuring Spike Burton
Welcome to Your One-Stop Pro Shop
One of SGCC's Staff Standards is, "We provide nothing less than the best for our Members and their guests." Part of that dedication to elevating the Member experience is doing our best to make your life easier so you can enjoy our beautiful course with your family and friends. Our concept of a wellrun Golf Pro Shop goes beyond managing tee times, running lessons, and hosting golf tournaments. We provide the repairs, merchandise, and fittings you need to take your game to the next level, all while enjoying yourself along the way!
CLUB REPAIR & MAINTENANCE
• Playing with the correct grip means shooting your best score with comfort, stability, and control. We recommend appropriate sizing (undersize, standard,
midsize, jumbo) based on your glove size. If it still doesn't feel quite right, we're happy to make an inbetween grip or add extra layers of tape.
• Not sure how often you should regrip? If you play more than 40 rounds a year, you should regrip every season.
• Your SGCC Golf Pro Shop offers regripping services with a 24-hour turnaround time. If you purchase your new grips from SGCC, the installation fee is complimentary.
• We also repair and modify clubs including reshafting, cutting down clubs, and adjusting the lie and loft.
MERCHANDISE
• Keep your golf game fresh with pieces from trusted brands like Peter Millar, Ralph Lauren RLX, and Holderness & Bourne. We carry a variety of styles including both golf-specific clothing and lifestyle wear ranging from functional to sophisticated with a dash of athleisure. Other brands you can regularly find in the Golf Pro Shop include Fairway & Greene, B.Draddy, Zero Restriction, and FootJoy. If we don't have what you're looking for, let us know!
• Can't make it into the Golf Pro Shop as often as you'd like? We are proud to offer an online Golf Shop allowing Members to select the latest styles in our Shop while on the go. Complete the online order form, then choose how you want to receive your new items: at the Pro Shop, shipped to your home, or waiting for you in your SGCC locker!
CLUB FITTING
• A professional club fitting benefits golfers of all ages and abilities because they allow us to take an in-depth look at your swing and match you with a club that will make your game shine.
• We offer fittings for all clubs including drivers, irons, wedges, and putters.
• Our team is certified to fit Titleist, TaylorMade, Callaway, and Ping, with additional access to Srixon, XXIO, and Mizuno.
• During your fitting, we'll dive into your handicap, average scores, typical misses, and club preferences. We'll also measure and track your swing using FlightScope to make data-driven recommendations for a set of clubs tailored to you and your game.
• We now offer Fitting Fridays once a month, but you can schedule a club fitting at any time by reaching out to the Golf Pro Shop and making an appointment: golfshop@sgccva.org or 703.451.8338.
• We're excited to be working on creating a Fitting Studio in the Golf Simulator Room. The project is still in the early planning stages, but we look forward to being able to offer the Membership another way to access our fitting services.
Springfield Retirees Kick Off the 2025 Competitive Season with Back-to-Back Wins at Home
BY RUSTY ROESCH
With two wins at home under our belt, the Springfield Retirees are off to a great start for the 2025 season!
Before our League matches began, we kicked off our season with an intraclub Opening Bash on March 27. It was a beautiful sunny spring day and despite a cool breeze at times, the Red Team firmly defeated the Blue Team by a score of 20 to 16. After holding the Horse's A** trophy for three long years, it is now in possession of our Blue Team Captain for the next year!
Red Team 3-point winners included Mark Crook/Lee Morgan, Jim Workman/Mark Hite, Steve Bartlett/Bruce Sheaffer, and Walt Szczypinski/Bob McNamara followed by Joe Canary/Don Bisenius scoring 2½ points. Blue Team 3-point winners included Walter Burkhardt/Robert Wooding, Roy Giese/George Alapas, and Rex Simmons/Tony Caggiano. Ban Tran/Rusty Roesch scored 2½ points.
Mark Crook turned in the lowest gross score for the Red Team with 79 while new Blue Team member Derrick Smith recorded a low gross score of 78. Mark Crook also took home low net honors for the Red Team with a 70, followed closely behind by George Alapas with a low net 71 for the Blue Team. Shooting net 72s were FD Rosenberger, Bruce Sheaffer, Travis Farris, and Derrick Smith. Lee Morgan had a net 73 as of Tony Caggiano. The team of Lee Morgan and Mark Crook won the sweeps with
a net 64. Second place went to Steve Bartlett/Bruce Sheaffer. Jim Workman/Mark Hite took third and Derrick Smith/Jim Wilson took fourth.
On April 3, we started with a strong wind on our faces, but it warmed up nicely along and so did our team for our first win of the season. We ended up carrying the day over Westwood Country Club 21½ to 14½. Notable match play results included 3-point winners Jim Wilson/Robert Wooding and George Alapas/Tony Caggiano. 2½ point winners were Derrick Smith/ John McClelland, Scott Kidd/John Benda, Bill Schneider/Bob Brien, and Mark Spooner/Mike Cifrino.
Springfield Retirees also took two of the four sweeps places. First place went to George Alapas/Tony Caggiano and fourth place went to Matt Jordan/Charles Rolen. Notable gross scores included Matt Jordan (74) and Derrick Smith (76). Low net scores were turned in by Steve Bartlett (69), Derrick Smith (70), John Benda (70), Matt Jordan (71), and Tony Caggiano (71).
We next faced County Club of Fairfax on April 10. It was a blustery and mostly overcast day, but the Springfield Retirees rose to the occasion by soundly defeating visiting County Club of Fairfax 24 to 12. Scores were generally higher due to the conditions, but some team members turned in great scores
anyway. Mark Crook shot a 77, followed closely by Derrick Smith with a 78. There were two low net 69s by Mark Crook and Mark Hite.
Derrick Smith/Joe Canary took first in the sweeps, while Don Doering/George Alapas and George Cave/Mark Hite captured second and third places. Fourth place went to Mike Saylor/Steve Bartlett. Five teams each delivered 3 points to help seal the win: Derrick Smith/Joe Canary, Scott Kidd/Jim McClaughry, George Cave/Mark Hite, Don Doering/George Alapas, and Bill Wydo/Brian Brodfuehrer.
Looking ahead, we have a busy month beginning with an away match at Heritage Hunt Country Club on May 1, followed by Westwood County Club on May 8. We host Army-Navy Fairfax Country Club at home on May 15, and travel to Fort Belvoir on May 22. For our final match of the month, we will travel to Hidden Creek Country Club on May 29.
To support highly competitive home and away matches, our Retiree Team needs fresh players every year. Note that it is never too late to join the Retirees (just be 50+ and dream about retirement). For more information on joining, please contact Bruce Nordstrom at bnorthstream@yahoo.com or call 202.494.6558.
S U M M E R C A M P SGCC Style
From sports-sampler camps to art camps, golf to racquets, choose from a plethora of options to keep your junior excited, engaged, and entertained this summer at SGCC! All of our camps run Monday-Friday, although start times vary. Keep reading to learn more about each of our camp offerings including age range, price, and more.
Camp registration is open online: navigate to the Club Calendar and toggle to the month your desired camp is hosted you'll
find the registration portal on the Monday of each week. Registration is for the whole week unless otherwise noted (for instance, the Tennis & Pickleball Camps have daily dropin rates). Questions about camp? Email Emily Kauffman at emily@sgccva.org.
Don't forget, all summer camp families are invited to attend our End of Summer Camp Ice Cream Social & Dance Party on Friday, August 1!
HALF DAY ART CAMP
Get ready for an afternoon of hands-on, age-appropriate fun! Our Half Day Art Camp gives children ages 4 to 5 the chance to flex their creative skills. Campers will explore a variety of media and create themed masterpieces they will be proud to show off. Half Day Art Camp costs $170/week; a Sibling Discount is also available. Campers will meet in the Child Minding Room at the Racquets & Fitness Facility from 12:00-3:00 PM, Monday through Friday. Snack is included. Please note, children must be fully toilet-trained to attend camp.
We are offering five sessions of Half Day Art Camp this summer:
• June 23-27
• June 30-July 4 (all five days!)
• July 7-11
• July 21-25
• July 28-August 1
ART & MOVEMENT CAMP
In this camp, children ages 6 to 10 will have the opportunity to learn routines in dance and tumbling, create a variety of art projects using different media, hit the pool, and more! Each year is a little different as our camp counselors (most of whom are previous campers themselves) bring their unique talents to the table to help design the curriculum for the kids. You can be sure that your child’s creativity will be put to work as they explore a variety of opportunities to exercise their bodies and their imaginations.
Art & Movement Camp meets Monday-Friday from 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM, costs $365/week (sibling discount available), and includes lunch and snack. We are offering five sessions this summer:
• June 23-27
• June 30-July 4 (all five days!)
• July 7-11
• July 21-25
• July 28-August 1
CAMP SGCC
A classic summer sports sampler camp for children ages 6 to 10. Campers will experience a wide range of activities from fitness, tennis, golf, and swim to art projects, dance routines, games, and more. We also bring in a variety of special visitors each week. In years past, campers have been visited by a mad scientist, a reptile expert, a professional dog trainer (and her talented pups), and a bubble magician. We do our best to bring in different vendors each week so that campers who come to both sessions continue to have a fulfilling experience.
Please note, Camp SGCC is our largest camp and children do not experience all sports every day. Rather, they are broken into small groups by age and rotate through stations. Most days end at the pool, so don’t forget to bring a towel!
Camp SGCC meets Monday-Friday from 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM, costs $435/week (sibling discount available), and includes lunch and snack. We are offering two sessions this summer:
• June 16-20
• July 14-18
GOLF & TENNIS CAMP
The Golf and Racquets Departments have teamed up again to provide a five-day camp for juniors ages 6 to 15 to get their game on! Campers will spend the first half of the day in golf instruction, break for lunch, and then spend the last half of the day on the courts. This camp is open to all experience levels, runs from 10:00 AM until 3:00 PM, and costs $525 per camper. Lunch is included.
We are offering three sessions this summer:
• June 23-27
• July 21-25
• July 28 - August 1
TENNIS & PICKLEBALL CAMP
With a one-hour and a full-day option to choose from, juniors ages 6 to 15 will have a blast on the courts in a way that fits into your family's unique schedule.
Our one-hour camp is great for juniors new to racquet sports who are looking to ease into the sport or for younger juniors who may be too tired after swim team to commit to a whole day’s worth of activities. The one-hour camp meets MondayFriday 10:00 — 11:00 AM. Registration for the whole week is $80/camper. Single Day registration is also available for $20/ camper/day.
• June 16-20
• June 23-27
• June 30 - July 3*
• July 7-11
• July 14-18
• July 21-25
Our full-day camp includes lunch and will dive deeper into game play and stroke production. This is a great option for juniors who are excited about the sport and can’t wait to spend all day on the courts! The full-day camp meets Monday-Friday 10:00 AM—3:00 PM and includes lunch. Registration for the full week is $425/camper. Single Day registration is also available for $100/camper/day.
• June 16-20
• June 23-27
• June 30 - July 3*
• July 7-11
• July 14-18
• July 21-25
• July 28 - August 1
• August 4-8
• August 11-15
*Please note, camp will not meet on July 4. Price that week is adjusted.
OPERATION 36 GOLF CAMP
Give your children a summer camp experience they won’t forget! We’re excited to announce that we will be offering a full day golf camp this summer for juniors ages 6 to 15. We leverage the Operation 36 platform in our summer camps because we believe in its approach and want to provide consistency for our juniors as they develop their skills through different camps and clinics here at SGCC.
We want each of our golfers to fall in love with the game and see improvement on the course. Each day of camp is packed with fun activities that make becoming a better golfer an enjoyable experience. Students will work on skill development in the morning and have the chance to play the course in the afternoon.
Camp runs from 10:00 AM until 3:00 PM Monday through Friday, and costs $525/week. Lunch is included.
We are offering one session this summer:
• August 11-15
END OF SUMMER CAMP ICE CREAM SOCIAL & DANCE PARTY
You're invited to an awesome end-of-camp celebration! All summer campers and their families are invited to join us on Friday, August 1 from 6:30-8:30 PM for a fun evening of ice cream and sweet moves on the dance floor. Like last year, campers are encouraged to "dress fancy" to make the evening extra special.
Please RSVP to emily@sgccva.org by July 25. The Ice Cream Social & Dance Party is a complimentary event for our camp families as a way to say thank you for spending your summer with us.
