SEPTEMBER 2026
Published by Woodbridge Golf & Country Club 950 E Woodbridge Rd, Woodbridge CA 95258 Digital Version available at www.woodbridgegcc.net
M E B T E P R E S
Officers President Nolan Persson l VP Brian Bowling l Treasurer Tore Maggio l Secretary Josh Sturman l Past President Cody Diede
6 2 20
Directors Bill Gorham, Dan Grauman, Andy Petersen, Geoff Peterson, Laura Reeves, Marty Willett
Club Contacts
THE TAP IN SHORT, QUICK NEWS
Ryan Bill, General Manager 209-263-0113 l rbill@woodbridgegcc.com Questions about this publication should be directed to Nabila Amin, 209-263-0114, or namin@woodbridgegcc.com Membership Director - Curtis Landa 209-263-0115 l clanda@woodbridgegcc.com
September 30 is the deadline for names starting with A-L
Accounting Manager - Nate Webb 209-263-0116 l nwebb@woodbridgegcc.com
If your last name starts with A-L, your food and beverage quarterly minimum ends this month. As a reminder, our events, Cafe food and beverage, beverage cart, and wine bottle purchases all count toward your food and beverage minimum.
Human Resources - Nabila Amin 209-263-0114 l namin@woodbridgegcc.com Administration Office 209-334-5454 x100
Food & Beverage Director - Kelley Mori 209-263-0112l kmori@woodbridgegcc.com Events Coordinator - Melissa Becerra 209-263-0121l mbecerra@woodbridgegcc.com Cafe 209-263-0133 l Private Events 209-263.0121 Head Golf Professional - John Hughes, PGA 209-368-2685 l jhughes@woodbridgegcc.com Golf Course Superintendent - Lou Silveria lsilveira@woodbridgegcc.com Player Development Professional - Ryan Williams 209-369-2371 l rawilliams@woodbridgegcc.com Golf Shop/ Tee Times 209-369-2371 Fitness Center Coordinator - James Stewart 209-370-6330 l jstewart@woodbridgegcc.com Tennis Professional - Mauricio Achondo, USPTA 209-327-5659 l machondo@woodbridgegcc.com Tennis Professional - Haley Marais, USPTA 209-275-5158 l hmarais@woodbridgegcc.com
Upcoming Member Events & Meetings: September 2: Men’s Twilight League Final Playoff September 4: Live music during Friday Night Dinner September 7: Labor Day - Club is Open September 8: Club is Closed September 9: Oak Farm Wine Dinner September 10: 49ers Home & Home Tournament September 12: New Member Mixer, Pickleball Fall Challenge September 15: House Committee Meeting, 18-Hole Ladies Guest Day September 17: 49ers Couple’s Guest Day September 18: Cigar Club Glow Golf Tournament September 19 & 20: Vocker Cup September 21-23: Fall Aeration-All Courses Closed September 22: Finance Committee Meeting Group 1 - Beth & Closed September 24-27: Fall AerationRiverGrady Course Kathy HaynieRound - 3,510Robin September 25: Member/Guest September 28-October 4: Vineyard Group 2 - SusanCourse Maley &Closed September 29: Board Directors -Meeting Shirleyof Spiekerman 2,380 SeptemberGroup 30: Bingo NightThomas 3 - Melba
Sports Complex & Reservations 209-370-6330 DBRIDGE WOO
& Bill DuBois - 2,720
FROM THE GENERAL MANAGER BY RYAN BILL, GENERAL MANAGER
Ever Thought About Serving on the Board? Applications are now being accepted for the Woodbridge Golf & Country Club Board of Directors through September 15. This is an opportunity for members who care about the Club’s future to take an active role in shaping its direction. The Board of Directors provides overall leadership and guidance for the Club. Board members help establish and review policies and procedures, consider long-range priorities, oversee the Club’s financial health, and make decisions intended to support the best interests of the membership as a whole. Board service is not about managing daily Club operations. Instead, it involves setting direction, reviewing important information, asking thoughtful questions, listening to member perspectives, and working collaboratively to make sound decisions for Woodbridge. Application and Nominating Process: A Nominating Committee will review all Board applications submitted by September 15. The committee’s role is to consider interested candidates and recommend nominees for the upcoming Board election. Eligible member types for Board service include: Family Golf Single Golf Young Professional Prior Board or committee experience is not required to apply. However, committee experience can be helpful because members who have served on committees often have a stronger understanding of how the Club operates, how recommendations are developed, and how Boardlevel decisions are considered. The most important qualities of a successful Board member are a commitment to the Club, a willingness to prepare for meetings, respect for differing viewpoints, and the ability to focus on the long-term interests of the entire membership.
Scan the QR code for the application!
Not Ready for the Board? Committee service is an excellent way to become involved if you are interested in contributing but are not ready to pursue a Board position at this time. Committees offer members a chance to provide input, discuss Club priorities, and make recommendations that support the Board and the Club’s operations. If you apply for the Board and are not selected as a nominee, we encourage you to continue showing your interest in Woodbridge by joining a committee. Committee participation is a meaningful way to contribute, become familiar with Club governance, and build experience that may support a future Board application. Members may express interest in the following committees: Golf and Greens — Golf operations, course conditions, and related priorities. House and Social — Clubhouse experience, dining, events, and social programming. Finance — Financial performance, budgeting, and long-term fiscal planning. Long Range Planning — Future facilities, priorities, opportunities, and strategic direction. Membership — Membership growth, retention, recruitment, and new-member engagement. Sports — Sports, recreation, programs, and participation opportunities.
Get Involved: Whether through Board service or committee participation, member involvement is essential to Woodbridge’s continued success. We encourage eligible members who are interested in serving on the Board to submit an application by September 15. If you are interested in committee service, please contact the Club office to share your interest and indicate the committee area that best matches your experience or interests. DBRIDGE WOO
FOOD & BEVERAGE NEWS BY KELLEY MORI, FOOD & BEVERAGE DIRECTOR
SIP & SAVOR: WINE PAIRINGS FOR YOUR WGCC LUNCH At Woodbridge Golf & Country Club, lunch at Founders Cafe is about more than a great meal—it’s about the full experience. Our seasonal salads, smash burgers, fresh seafood, and flavorful bowls pair beautifully with a wine list that highlights approachable California classics alongside standout local Lodi bottles. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite between rounds or lingering over a midday meal, the right glass can lift every dish. Here are some of our favorite pairings from the current Founders lunch and wine menus: Founders Summer Salad + Oak Farm Rosé, Lodi Mixed greens, spinach, bleu cheese, fresh berries, toasted almonds, and poppyseed balsamic meet a crisp, dry local rosés. The wine’s bright berry notes and lively acidity echo the salad’s fresh fruit while cutting through the creamy cheese and toasted nuts. It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for a sunny patio lunch. Glass or bottle both work beautifully here. Ahi Sandwich or Ahi Poke Bowl + Oak Farm Albariño, Lodi (or Grady Pinot Grigio) Blackened ahi seared rare, garlic aioli, pickled veggies, and coleslaw (or the poke bowl with edamame, avocado, and wonton strips) love high-acid, citrusdriven whites. Oak Farm’s Albariño brings stone-fruit and saline brightness that complements the fish without overpowering it. Grady Pinot Grigio is a slightly lighter, equally crisp alternative if you prefer something more delicate. Both keep the meal feeling clean and coastal. California Chicken Club or Crispy Chicken + Michael David Freakshow Chardonnay, Lodi Grilled or house-breaded chicken, avocado or garlic aioli, bacon, and ciabatta/brioche call for a Chardonnay with enough body and a touch of oak. Freakshow delivers tropical fruit and a creamy texture that matches the richness of the sandwich while still feeling fresh enough for lunch. Hess Select (Monterey) is a solid by-the-glass backup if you want something a bit leaner and more citrus-forward. WGCC Cheeseburger + OZV Old Vine Zinfandel, Lodi A six-ounce smash burger with house-made Thousand Island, lettuce, tomato, onion, and your choice of cheese needs a wine with juicy fruit and soft tannins. OZV’s old-vine Lodi Zin is jammy, peppery, and medium-bodied—exactly the kind of easy-drinking red that stands up to the burger without fighting it. House Cabernet is a reliable, more affordable alternative if you prefer something drier. Three Korean BBQ Tacos + OZV Old Vine Zinfandel (or Michael David Earthquake Cabernet) Bulgogi-marinated flank steak, cabbage, sriracha crema, avocado, and sunomono bring sweet-spicy-savory energy. Zinfandel’s ripe berry and spice notes play perfectly with the gochujang and grilled beef. If you want more structure and darker fruit, step up to Michael David’s Earthquake Cabernet from Lodi —it has the power for the meat while still showing the local character we love. Black & Blue or Garlic Steak + Quilt Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa (or Austin Hope, Paso Robles) Blackened filet with blue cheese, bacon, and crispy onions (or the garlic-marinated 6-oz filet on a French roll) deserves a proper Cabernet. Quilt offers classic Napa structure, dark fruit, and polished tannins that stand up to the steak and blue cheese. Austin Hope from Paso Robles is a richer, more fruitforward option with plenty of power for the same dishes. Both reward a slightly longer lunch. Fish & Chips or Coconut Walnut Shrimp + House Sparkling or Coppola Prosecco Crispy batter, fried seafood, and bright sides love bubbles. Our House Sparkling or a split of Coppola Prosecco cut through the richness and cleanse the palate between bites. The lift of the bubbles keeps these classic fried plates feeling lighter and more festive. Bonus Light Pairing: Par 3 or Cobb Salad + Duckhorn Decoy Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Noir The Par 3 (apples, bacon, golden raisins, poppy seed) and Cobb both benefit from versatility. A crisp Sauvignon Blanc brightens the fruit and greens; a lighter Pinot Noir (Duckhorn Decoy is ideal by the glass) handles the bacon and richer dressings without weighing the salad down. These pairings lean into what we do best at Woodbridge: fresh ingredients, local Lodi wines whenever they shine, and wines that actually make the food taste better. Next time you’re in for lunch, ask your server for a glass recommendation or explore the full list. We’ll help you find the perfect match. Cheers to good food, good wine, and another great day at the club.
SAVE THE DATE
OAK FA R M WINE DINNER W E D N E S D AY
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S E P T E M B E R 6 P M
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9 T H 8 P M
DINNER MENU 1st Course — 2023 Chardonnay
Mushroom Risotto
2nd Course — 2023 Corset
Venison Chop with Blackberry Demi
$ 8 6 F O R W I N E C L U B M E M B E R S $ 96 F O R M E M B E R S
3rd Course — 2024 Merlot
Beef Rendang with Cilantro Rice 4th Course — 2023 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon
Espresso Filet, Cilantro Lime Butter, Rajas con Elote y Papas 5th Course — 2024 Fiano
Granny Smith Apple Turnover
SPORTS COMPLEX BY JAMES STEWART, SPORTS COORDINATOR
Tennis League Play Begins September 8 We are excited to begin league play on Tuesday, September 8. With league matches taking place throughout the season, there will be some court restrictions on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. Court restrictions will be from 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM on Courts 2, 3, 5, 6, and 7. These restrictions will remain in place through February to accommodate league play. Please check with the Tennis Department or Front Desk for court availability and scheduling. ✦
Strength for Life: Why Resistance Training Matters at Every Age
Scan QR code for match schedules
When we think about exercise, cardio often gets most of the attention. Walking, cycling, swimming, and other aerobic activities are important for overall health, but strength training deserves a place in a well-rounded fitness routine too. Maintaining strong muscles and bones becomes increasingly important as we age, helping us stay active, capable, and independent. More Than Building Muscle Resistance training—also called strength training—simply means working your muscles against resistance. That can include free weights, weight machines, resistance bands, or even your own body weight through exercises such as squats, lunges, and push-ups. The benefits extend well beyond building muscle. Regular strength training can make everyday activities like climbing stairs, getting out of a chair, carrying groceries, and enjoying recreational activities easier. It can also help maintain muscle mass and physical function as we get older. Strong Muscles, Strong Bones Our bones are living tissue, and like our muscles, they respond to being challenged. Weight-bearing activities and strength training place healthy stress on the bones, helping to build and maintain bone strength. This becomes especially important with age, when the risk of bone loss and osteoporosis increases. Strength and balance also go hand in hand. Stronger muscles can improve stability and physical function, which can help reduce the risk of falls and fall-related injuries. You Don't Have to Lift Heavy Strength training doesn't mean you need to lift the heaviest weights in the Fitness Center. The goal is to challenge your muscles appropriately for your current fitness level. Beginners can start with body-weight movements, light weights, resistance bands, or machines and gradually increase the challenge as they become stronger.Current physical activity guidelines recommend that adults include muscle-strengthening activities that work the major muscle groups at least two days per week. Strength Is an Investment in Your Future The goal of strength training isn't simply to change how you look—it's to help your body continue doing the things you enjoy. Whether that's playing a round of golf, traveling, gardening, keeping up with family, or simply moving through everyday life with confidence, maintaining strength can help you stay active for years to come. It's never too late to start getting stronger. Start where you are, progress gradually, and remember that every workout is an investment in the way you want to move and live tomorrow.
MEET ARI MURDACA Ari is 4 years old and attends Lodi Montessori. She is an outgoing, freespirited girl who loves spending time with her friends and her two dogs, Lizzy and Zoey. Ari is new to tennis but has been eager to start playing after watching her brother and sister play for the last few years. One of her favorite parts of tennis is getting to wear cute outfits and use the cute pink racket Coach Haley gave her. She looks forward to playing tennis every week!
SAVE THE DATE SEPTEMBER 25TH 5PM - 8PM
US OPEN TENNIS TOURNAMENT 12 TEAM SIGN UP SIGN UP AT THE FITNESS CENTER OR CONTACT HALEY
FOOD WILL BE SERVED AT 7:30PM
TENNIS TIP OF THE MONTH BY MAURICIO ACHONDO, TENNIS PROFESSIONAL
The Importance of a Proper Warm-Up Before Playing Tennis Whether you are preparing for a casual hit, a lesson, a league match, or a tournament, a proper warm-up should be part of every tennis player’s routine. Warming up is not simply about hitting a few balls before the match begins—it is about preparing your body and your mind for the movements, intensity, and quick reactions that tennis demands. Get Your Body Ready Tennis requires constant acceleration, deceleration, changes of direction, jumping, reaching, and rotation. Starting these movements when your muscles are cold can increase the risk of strains and other injuries. A good warm-up gradually raises your body temperature and increases blood flow to your muscles. It also prepares your joints and nervous system for the movements you are about to perform. Start with five to ten minutes of easy movement such as walking, jogging, side shuffles, carioca steps, or light skipping. Gradually increase the intensity rather than going from standing still to full-speed movement. Dynamic Movement Is Key Before tennis, dynamic movements are generally more useful than holding long static stretches. Try movements such as leg swings, walking lunges, arm circles, trunk rotations, and controlled high knees. The goal is not to tire yourself out. The goal is to prepare your body for tennis. Think of your warm-up as a progression: Move Mobilize Activate Practice Play
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Don’t Forget the Tennis-Specific Warm-Up Once your body is moving, take a few minutes to prepare your tennis movements. Begin with easy mini-tennis, focusing on control and feel rather than power. Gradually move farther back and increase the pace. Then incorporate volleys, overheads, serves, and groundstrokes. This is also an excellent time to work on the fundamentals that you want to carry into your match: your split step, unit turn, footwork, spacing, balance, and recovery. The first few minutes on the court should not be about trying to hit winners. They should be about finding your rhythm and getting your body and mind connected. Warm Up Your Mind, Too A good warm-up is also mental preparation. Use those first few minutes to become aware of your footwork, your timing, your contact point, and your balance. Start concentrating before the first competitive point—not after you have already made several mistakes. A focused warm-up can help you begin a match with confidence rather than spending the first few games trying to find your game. Don’t Rush the Process One of the biggest mistakes players make is treating the warm-up as something they have to get through as quickly as possible. If you have 30 minutes before you play, don’t spend 25 minutes sitting down and then try to warm up in five minutes. Give yourself enough time to gradually prepare. And remember: a warm-up should leave you feeling ready, not exhausted. Make It a Habit The best warm-up is the one you actually do consistently. Develop a routine that you can repeat before every practice, lesson, or match. Over time, your body will recognize that routine as a signal that it is time to perform. Tennis is a game of movement, reaction, balance, and coordination. Give your body the preparation it deserves. BR
D IDGE WOO - Warm Don’t just warm up to play tennis up to play your best tennis.
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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 18
2-PERSON SCRAMBLE ALL PAR 3's ON THE VINEYARD TENTATIVE 7:30 PM SHOTGUN START TOP 1/3 OF THE FIELD PAY OUT $10 BUY-IN PER PERSON NON-MEMBERS: $20 EQUIPMENT RENTAL FEE ALSO APPLIES FREE ENTRY FOR CIGAR CLUB MEMBERS SIGN UP IN THE GOLF SHOP
MEMBERSHIP UPDATE
BY CURTIS LANDA, MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR
JULY & AUGUST NEW MEMBERS Please join us in extending a warm welcome to our newst members. We are delighted to have these individuals and families become part of the Woodbridge community, and we look forward to seeing them enjoy all the club has to offer. Wyatt and Shelby Tomek — Golf Membership Wyatt and his wife Shelby are excited to join the Club with their two children, Taylor and Theo. Wyatt works for Belkorp Ag as Golf & Turf Aftermarket Manager, and Shelby is a realtor with RE/MAX Gold and an active member of Omega Nu. The family spends much of their free time at kids' sporting events and is looking forward to meeting new people — and introducing the kids to golf. Edward "Charles" Cooper — Golf Membership Retired and unmarried, Edward was born and raised in Los Altos and moved to Lodi in 1999. He spent 30+ years as a Pac-10/12 umpire, with a "side hustle" washing residential windows in Lodi during the off-season. Tyler and Holli Leeworthy — Golf Membership Tyler and his wife Holli (both Galt natives) have two young children, Leighton and Woods. Tyler is an Estimator with AMP Safety and Holli is a BCBA with Elk Grove Unified School District. Having grown up golfing with dad, brother, and grandparents, their goal is for their kids to love the game the way they do — and to build lasting memories together. Darren and Melissa Tabayoyon — Sports Membership Darren and his wife Melissa value quality time together and building traditions that strengthen their marriage. Darren is a Power Plant Operator at Calpine Corporation, and Melissa is a School Psychologist with Stockton Unified School District. They're looking forward to golf, fitness, pickleball, and social events as they become part of a welcoming community. Eric and Madison Chen — Golf Membership Eric and his wife Madison are excited to join the Club community. Eric is a Physical Therapist with Sky Home Health, and Madison is a Registered Nurse at Dignity Health/St. Joseph's Medical Center. The couple is looking forward to playing golf regularly and making frequent use of the fitness center, pool, and pickleball facilities. Matt and Diana Miller — Golf Membership Matt and his wife Diana will celebrate their 28th wedding anniversary this October; they have three adult children, Ben, Emma, and Olivia. After more than 25 years in the technology industry, Matt retired in 2021 and recently moved to Woodbridge. He's looking forward to playing golf with longtime friends and meeting new people in the community. Daniel and Aleja Sosa — Golf Membership Daniel and his wife Aleja have two children, Camille and Jonathan. A lifelong Central Valley resident and Lincoln High/UOP alum, Daniel is Owner/President of CVMG Financial Corp and has been recognized in the top 1% of mortgage brokers nationally. He's looking forward to bonding with his son and working out with his wife at the Club. Torrey and Sydney De Armas — Golf Membership Torrey and his wife Sydney recently relocated their family to Lodi, where Sydney joined her family's farming business. They have two young children, Jackson and Gabriella, plus a golden retriever named Crosby. Torrey works in finance as a Sr. Financial Analyst with Builder Circle, and outside of work enjoys golf and soccer with the family. Patrick and Ashley Katzakian — Dining Membership Patrick and his wife Ashley, owners of Katzakian Property Management, have one daughter, Adelyn. The family is looking to join the Club to socialize and meet others in the community, and Patrick notes Adelyn is especially eager to join the swim league — she loves to swim.
MEMBERSHIP COUNT AS OF 9/1/2026 FULL GOLF: 468 LIMITED GOLF: 45 SPORTS/SOCIAL: 252 TOTAL: 765
NEW MEMBER MIXER Only for members who joined us between January 2025 through September 2026! Hosted House Wine & Beer
Saturday, September 12 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Grazing Table Tri-Tip with creamy & straight horseradish and au jus Passed Appetizers Lemon Bars, Brownies, Assorted Cookies Reach out to Curtis to sign up: clanda@woodbridgegcc.com
We can’t wait to welcome you!
GOLF SHOP NEWS
BY JOHN HUGHES, PGA, HEAD GOLF PROFESSIONAL
MEN’S GOLF UPCOMING GOLF EVENTS September 2 - Men’s Twilight League Final
September 12 - Callaway Club Fitting September 19 - TaylorMade Club Fitting September 19 & 20 - Vocker Cup October 17 - Superintendent’s Revenge
THE VOCKER CUP - SAT, 9/19 & SUN, 9/20 This year it’s the 10 annual tournament commemorating long-time Woodbridge Head Pro Bob Vocker. 2-man teams play Better Ball in five 9-hole matches over two days. Highest point teams are entered into ‘The Shootout’ that culminates the event on Day 2.
SUPERINTENDENT’S REVENGE TOURNAMENT - SAT, 10/24
PRESIDENT’S CUP 2026 RESULTS SCAN THE QR CODE TO SEE RESULTS
At this event, you’ll see the course like at no other time all year! The set up will be a fun yet challenging course that will definitely test your game. Members will enjoy having a partner to lean on in the 2-Man Scramble format.
CALL THE GOLF SHOP AT 209-369-2371 TO PARTICIPATE!
GOLF RULES AUGUST’S QUESTION
In stroke play, to free their hands while attending the flagstick, a player’s caddie casually places the player’s sand wedge on the putting green but not to indicate the line of play. After the player putts and the ball nears the hole, the caddie removes the flagstick. The caddie also removes the wedge from the putting green, fearing that the player’s ball will strike it. What is the ruling? Answer: There is no penalty. While Rule 15.2 exception 2 does not allow a movable obstruction (flagstick) to be moved that may affect a player's ball in motion, the Rule 11.3 exception authorizes a player or caddie to remove equipment. THIS MONTH’S QUESTION
In match play, at the conclusion of the 18th hole, a player, by mistake, tells their opponent the wrong number of strokes taken that causes the opponent to concede the match. The right number of strokes would result in a tied match. After the result is final the player realizes their mistake and tells their opponent the right number of strokes. Then, the opponent requests a ruling. What is the ruling?
10TH ANNUAL
VOCKER CUP
SEPTEMBER 19TH & 20TH, 2026 FORMAT & ENTRY $400 per team · Includes Carts, F&B & Tee Prize Optional $200/team buy-in for prize fund Member-Member Priority until Sept 1st Enter at the Golf Shop
2-Man Teams 5 Four-Ball Matches for Points Flights of 6 Teams/54 Team Maximum Field Shootout: Lowest 2 Teams from Each Flight All Players Must Have an Established Index
ON THE COURSE BY LOU SILVEIRA, GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENT
September Agronomy Update As we move into September, summer will begin winding down, but the Agronomy Department will continue to remain focused on managing the effects of the summer heat. Even as temperatures begin to moderate, heat stress remains a concern, particularly on our cool-season turf and putting greens. Our team will continue carefully managing irrigation, monitoring turf health, and adjusting maintenance practices as necessary to help the golf course transition successfully into fall. ON THE COURSE
The River Course Bunker Refresh Project continues to progress very well and remains on schedule. The project provides a much-needed update to the bunkers while improving their appearance, playability, and long-term performance. We appreciate everyone's patience while construction continues and look forward to seeing the finished product. September is also an important transition month as we prepare for our upcoming fall aeration. Coming out of the long, hot summer months, the turf has endured significant heat, traffic, and environmental stress.
FALL AERATION: WHY IT MATTERS Relieves soil compaction Improves air and water movement Encourages deeper, healthier roots Reduces organic matter buildup
Aeration is one of the most important practices we perform to help the turf recover. The process relieves soil compaction, improves air and water movement
FROM SUMMER TO FALL
into the root zone, encourages deeper and healthier root growth, and helps reduce the buildup of organic matter. While aeration creates a short period of disruption to playing conditions, the long-term benefits are critical to maintaining healthy, firm, and consistent playing surfaces. This work helps set the foundation for strong turf recovery through the fall and improved conditions throughout the year. As always, thank you for your continued support and understanding as our team works each day to provide the best possible playing conditions at Woodbridge Golf & Country Club. The Agronomy Department
Managing lingering summer heat stress Monitoring irrigation and turf health Preparing cool-season turf for fall recovery Building healthier, firmer, more consistent playing surfaces
FORE-TEE NINERS UPDATE
BY DONNA AARONS, FORE-TEE NINERS 2026 CAPTIAN Growing up in the Midwest, September always brought to mind cooler temps, the start of a new school year, shorter days and changing leaves. Here in California, September brings to mind beautiful weather, the opportunity for less crowded travel and of course, gorgeous days on the golf course. The Forty Niners look forward in September to stroke play, a cha cha cha, a shamble and our popular couples guest day. It’s amazing how much fun can be had playing nine holes of golf! The month of August was a busy one for us. Our Championship brought out the most players in years. Shannon Hagen was our overall gross winner for the second year in a row. The girl was on fire! Donna Aarons was net winner, with Nancy Little coming in second net and Rhonda Craig close behind in third place. Shannon Hagen, Donna Aarons and Nancy Little will represent Woodbridge at the Women’s Nine Hole Golf Association Tournament of Champions on September 15th at Oakdale Country Club. We recently played a scramble on the Vineyard. Kathy Cockayne, Patty Kooyman and Dora Shoemaker placed second. Shannon Hagen, Rhonda Craig, Nancy Little and Donna Aarons took first. Let’s hope they saved some of those shots for play at Oakdale. We welcome a new member to our Forty Niners, Kathy Piazza. We’re anxiously awaiting play in the newly revamped River course. Summer 2026 will soon be a memory, hope everyone has the opportunity to enjoy these lovely days on the course.
SEPTEMBER’S TIP OF THE MONTH BY RYAN WILLIAMS, PLAYER DEVELOPMENT PROFESSIONAL
Golf Is a Game Best Played, Not Worked At I’ve always tried to write these monthly articles as though we were having a conversation — something that hopefully feels a lot like taking a lesson with me at our practice facilities. Golf is a vulnerable game. I think it was Jack Lemmon who once compared playing a round of golf to stepping on stage in front of everyone you know and removing one article of clothing at a time. Trying to improve your game often feels just like that — exposed, uncomfortable, and faith-requiring. You can do all the right things and still see inconsistent progress. Sometimes, you even wonder if the old swing, flawed as it was, was better than this new one that only occasionally offers hope you made the right change. If you’ll indulge me, I recently fell into a trap I’ve encountered many times. After some tournament success earlier in the year, I saw the offseason as an opportunity. I consulted a golf fitness expert, took a lesson, and started a speed training program. But somewhere in the process, my preparation checklist got too long. I was doing all the “right” things, but it quickly became clear that I wasn’t allowing my natural ability to come through. I was stifling it. So how do we manage this all-too-common predicament? Have a Plan
Ways to Gain Skill
The best players in the world never muddle their intentions for the day. They're either working on movements, patterns, and swing changes —
7-Iron Only Game:
or they’re playing, scoring, and competing. Never both. Make a clear
Play a few holes using just your 7-iron — choosing yardages where
decision before your session begins, and you’ll save yourself a lot of
you can reach the green in two. This is my favorite way to break out
confusion and frustration.
of swing-thought overload. Quickly, players rediscover a more artistic, instinctive way to play. You’ll have to problem-solve, get
Create Good Habits
creative, and play the game — not just execute mechanics.
Written Game Plan:
“Call Your Shot” Drill:
Think like a good physical trainer. They don’t guess — they plan the
Do this one with a friend: Have them call out a shot (“low,” “fade,”
exercises, reps, and weight. If one of us — myself, Zach, John, or
“draw,” etc.) as you’re starting your swing. It sounds impossible at
another pro — prescribes a drill to help make a swing change, having a
first. But surprisingly quickly, players find they can respond with
structured regimen is critical. Poor range sessions happen when
only a split-second of thought. The drill reveals a truth I share often:
players react to each shot instead of sticking to a focus. If you hit 100
You’re better than you think you are.
balls and changed your focus 100 times, you didn’t really train anything. Instead, perform drills in sets. Try four repetitions of a drill, followed by a “normal” swing on the fifth ball. This approach brings awareness to what feels right, what doesn’t, and gives the swing change a better 1 chance of sticking. 2 Compartmentalize: Train Fundamentals, Play Shots 3 Tour players constantly use drills and tools to manage their tendencies — and yes, even the best have plenty of things they don’t like in their swings. But here’s what really sets them apart: decision-making, shot shaping, trajectory control, feel. Not perfect mechanics. Fundamentals give you access to those skills — but don’t guarantee them. Real skill is developed over time through playing, experimenting, and trusting instinct.
At its core, golf is a balancing act between intellect and instinct. Knowing how to do something is important. But at a certain point, we need to stop working on the game and start playing the game. Kids don’t perform tag. They don’t work at it. They play it. And that’s exactly how golf should be played. If you’ve been grinding, stuck in mechanics, or just plain frustrated, try one of these drills. Step out of the “lab” and back into the playground. You might just surprise yourself.
BINGO NIGHT WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30TH - 3-6P $30/Member TACO BAR Chicken Tinga, Ground Beef Corn & Flour Tortillas, Shredded Lettuce, Diced Tomatoes, Diced Onions, Shredded Cheese, Sour Cream, Guacamole, Salsa Chips and Salsa Spanish Rice Pinto Beans Southwestern Salad Churros and Assorted Desserts
18-HOLE LADIES BY KIM DANGELO & LAURA REEVES 18-HOLE LADIES CO-CAPTIANS
AUGUST UPDATE August was a busy month for the 18-Hole Ladies. With the River Course closed, we moved the club championship earlier and completed three rounds of golf, with play spread across both courses.
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR FLIGHT WINNERS 3rd Flight: 1 : Penny Meyers 2nd : Donna Brundy 3rd : Ginny Pelton st
2nd Flight: 1 : Cheryl Spector 2nd : Sharon Daegling 3rd : Dianne Wheeler st
1st Flight: 1st : Chris Phelps 2nd : Joy Saski 3rd : Kim Dangelo
CONGRATULATIONS TO DEBBIE WELL ON BECOMING OUR NEW CLUB CHAMPION! After the championship competition, we closed the month with our annual Sandie Hawkins Guest Day. Thank you to Joy Sasaki and Rene Donaldson for chairing the event and helping make it such a success. This year’s event drew sixty-eight players, including the male players of the club who joined us. Congratulations to our 1st place winners: Patty Anderson, Stephen Carillo, Marolyn Watts, and Zach Kramer It was a wonderful event, and we hope you will join us next year. If you are interested in becoming part of the 18-Hole Ladies, please contact the Pro Shop or our Membership Chair, Beth Grady.
Coming up!
OCTOBER & NOVEMBER EVENTS October 1 - 49ers Ryder Cup with Oakdale
October 3 - Spirits Dinner with Diageo October 7 - Cigar Club Event October 14 - Wine Wednesday with Nick October 17 -Superintendent’s Revenge Tournament October 30 - Halloween Bash Round Robin October 30 - Halloween Bash November 7 - Annual Meeting November 8 - Veteran’s Day Event November 14 - Men’s Finale Tournament November 21 - Wine Show November 25 - Thanksgiving Dinner Buffet
8 CLUBHOUSE & GOLF CLOSED
15 RIVER COURSE CLOSED - BUNKER PROJECT House Committee Meeting 4p
22 ALL COURSES CLOSED - FALL AERATION Finance Meeting 5p
29 VINEYARD COURSE CLOSED FALL AERATION 18-Hole Ladies 8:30am Board of Directors Meeting 5:30p
14 CLUBHOUSE & GOLF CLOSED
21 CLUBHOUSE & GOLF CLOSED
28 CLUBHOUSE & GOLF CLOSED
30 VINEYARD COURSE CLOSED FALL AERATION Bingo Night
23 ALL COURSES CLOSED - FALL AERATION
16 RIVER COURSE CLOSED - BUNKER PROJECT
9 RIVER COURSE CLOSED - BUNKER PROJECT Oak Farm Wine Dinner
2 RIVER COURSE CLOSED - BUNKER PROJECT Wed Night Buffet 5p-8p Men’s Twilight League Final Playoff 5p
1 RIVER COURSE CLOSED - BUNKER PROJECT 18-Hole Ladies 8:30am
24 RIVER COURSE CLOSED - BUNKER PROJECT RIVER COURSE CLOSED - FALL AERATION 49ers 8:30a 18-Hole Ladies 8:30am
17 RIVER COURSE CLOSED - BUNKER PROJECT 49ers Couple’s Guest Day 8:30am
10 RIVER COURSE CLOSED - BUNKER PROJECT 49ers 8:30a 18-Hole Ladies 8:30am 49ers Home & Home Torunament 12:30p
3 RIVER COURSE CLOSED - BUNKER PROJECT 49ers 8:30a Sports Committee Meeting 5:30p
THURSDAY
25 RIVER COURSE CLOSED - FALL AERATION Member/Guest Round Robin 5p
18 RIVER COURSE CLOSED - BUNKER PROJECT Fri Night Dinner 5p-8p Glow Golf Tournament 7:30p
11 RIVER COURSE CLOSED - BUNKER PROJECT Fri Night Dinner 5p-8p
4 RIVER COURSE CLOSED - BUNKER PROJECT Live Music with Rob Stevenson during Fri Night Dinner 5p-8p
FRIDAY
26 RIVER COURSE CLOSED - FALL AERATION
19 RIVER COURSE CLOSED - BUNKER PROJECT Vocker Cup Day 1
12 RIVER COURSE CLOSED - BUNKER PROJECT New Member Mixer Pickleball Fall Challenge 9a
5 RIVER COURSE CLOSED - BUNKER PROJECT
SATURDAY
27 RIVER COURSE CLOSED - FALL AERATION
20 RIVER COURSE CLOSED - BUNKER PROJECT Vocker Cup Day 2
13 RIVER COURSE CLOSED - BUNKER PROJECT
6 RIVER COURSE CLOSED - BUNKER PROJECT
SUNDAY
SEPTEMBER 2026
WEDNESDAY
TUES-SUN OASIS: 11A-7P
TUESDAY
SAT-SUN BREAKFAST 7A-11:30A LUNCH MENU 11A-5P BAR MENU 3-6P
7 Labor Day - CLUB IS OPEN RIVER COURSE CLOSED - BUNKER PROJECT
MONDAY
TUES-FRI LUNCH MENU 11A-5P BAR MENU 3P-6P DINNER 5P-8P
CAFE HOURS
6202 REBMETPES