2024 Board of Directors
David DeLorenzo President david.delorenzo@gmail.com 703.887.0505
John Astorino Vice President john.astorino@longandfoster.com 703.898.5148
Caitlin Clark Secretary sheaclark@comcast.net 703.967.8997
Bob Sampson Treasurer bsampson71@gmail.com 703.362.0027
Mike Cozad mcozad@advairac.com 703.926.6758
Tom Davis tdavis@gandrellc.com 703.772.5015
Joe English jenglish@bsbllc.com 571.214.4673
Dan McCarthy danm5691@gmail.com 703.999.9329
Charles Rolen rolencw@gmail.com 703.862.9370
2024 Committees
Audit
Joe English jenglish@bsbllc.com 571.214.4673
Communications
Katie Kissal katiekissal@gmail.com 703.244.4583
Finance
Bob Sampson bsampson71@gmail.com 703.362.0027
Fitness
Gayle Burgoyne gayleburgoyne@aol.com 703.455.3985
Food & Beverage
John Palladino jape199@aol.com 703.901.0744
Golf
David Kelly davidnkelly@verizon.net 703.786.0980
Green
Dan Derisio dderisio@yahoo.com 703.618.1720
House
Julie Graham juliegraham10@me.com 703.650.8788
Membership
Jon Danforth danforth.jon@gmail.com 703.409.7383
Personnel
John Astorino john.astorino@longandfoster.com 703.898.5148
Racquets
Staci Goede staci.goede@gmail.com
Garrett Engeset gengeset@gmail.com
Rules
Bruce Nordstrom bnorthstream@yahoo.com 202.494.6558
Social Natalee Siveroni olahnatalee@gmail.com
Marie Denslow a93aggie@gmail.com
Strategic Planning
Joe English jenglish@bsbllc.com 571.214.4673
Swim/Pool
Mike Goede goedes@me.com 703.927.0941
sgcc_racquets sgccvagolfshop sgcc_weddings
General Manager’s Message
BY STEVE LAWSON, CCM | GENERAL MANAGER & CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
The summer heat is here, and we are firing on all cylinders at SGCC! This is busy season for all departments, and the Club has been bustling with activity and energy these past several weeks. We’ve hosted spectacular Member/Guest events for both tennis and golf, and our Independence Day Picnic was the largest to date. Junior camps are in full swing, the swim team made quite the splash and earned the title of Division Champions, and our third-annual Wimbledon event was a smashing success.
The staff has been working hard to provide exceptional service and memorable experiences. We strive to make every Member interaction better than the previous one, and I am continuously impressed with the attention to detail and level of intentionality and passion our staff exudes. They care so deeply about your time at the Club and diligently work to make this place the best it can be. It is inspiring to watch them challenge themselves, experience new things, and constantly improve. I am proud of how they come together, collaborating with and supporting one another to achieve their goals and successes.
The Board and committees have also been hard at work. They have been reviewing the Green Book documents to more effectively govern the Club and are looking forward to introducing some new initiatives regarding feedback from
the Membership Survey. Over the next few months, we will be launching a communication series titled “Your Voice in Action” that will inform the Membership on topics discussed by the Board and Strategic Planning Committee as they begin to understand, prioritize, and outline future capital plans. Our goal is to reach out and engage the Membership, garnering community involvement in conversations about the direction of the Club and the implementation of these larger projects. Additional details will be forthcoming, but this longrange planning communication will be featured in the weekly Club News email and will share how Board and committee level discussions impact the overall Member experience.
As we look toward the latter half of the summer, please mark your calendars for upcoming social events. I look forward to seeing you and your families around the Club!
Summer Golf Shout-Outs
The WGA-18 held their Chairman’s Cup Two-Lady Tournament in early June. Congratulations to Low Gross winners Elaine Block and Kyong Chang! Congratulations are also in order for Helen Waters and Karen McNamara who won first place Net, as well as Leslie-Ann Kellan and Maria Supko who tied with Caretta Anderson and Kim Doering for second place Net.
The 2024 BOD Ringer Tournament was held in late May. Congratulations to our Champions: Carlos Aranda (Gross) and Paul Liberty (Net).
On June 17, Raquel Walker qualified for the 2024 U.S. Girls’ Junior Championship at the Carolina Trace Lakes qualifier. At 3 under through 15, she added excitement with a 4 putt on 16 that put her 1 behind 2 scores finished. She had a birdie on 17, and posted a 70, 2 under. This tied for 2nd qualifier, 3 holes of playoffs to secure the spot through a tap in birdie.
Congratulations to the Overall Net Winners of the 2024 Ladies Member/Guest: Claire Giambastiani, Lindsay Frazier, Jamie Pagliocco, and Jackie Gallagher.
We are proud to celebrate Alex Austin’s impressive performance at the 2nd Women’s Open of Virginia. With consistent scores of 73, 73, and 70, Alex secured a well-deserved 2nd place. Her dedication and hard work are truly inspiring!
Congratulations to Sebastian O’Connor on winning the VSGA Algonkian Tournament!
SGCC’s junior golfers had success in Drive, Chip, and Putt this year: Owen Kaeding, Kamryn Garg, and Maddie Pool clinched spots through local qualifiers, with Noelle Kaeding and Logan Laubscher securing alternate spots.
Congratulations to Steve Denslow who got a hole-in-one on Friday, July 12 on Hole #11.
Congratulations to Shane McLaughlin who snagged a hole-inone on Saturday, July 13 during an A-Team match at Chantilly National Golf Club on Hole #7.
Congratulations to Trey and Hal Parrish on winning the 2024 3-Day Member/Guest Tournament.
Congratulations to all our young champions and participants who showed amazing talent and sportsmanship at the 2024 Junior Club Championship on Saturday, July 13. Check out our winners:
18 Hole Boys:
1st: Kamryn Garg
2nd: Justin Han
18 Hole Girls:
1st: Madelyn Pool
2nd: Emily Holbrook
9 Hole Division:
1st: Milyn Garg
T-2nd: Sebastian O’Connor & Christian Saunders
6 Hole Division:
1st : Luca Simpson
2nd: Owen Kaeding
3rd: Jack O’Connor
3 Hole Division:
1st: Jackson Wright
2nd: Kenzie Banh
3rd: Alec Simpson
T-4th: Maya Dhandayutham & Sloane Webber
Congratulations to Eric Walker who won the 2024 Northern Virginia Senior Amateur in a sudden-death playoff versus John Astorino.
Congratulations to Grace Saunders who was third-seed for match play in the Championship flight of the 99th VSGA Women’s Amateur Championship!
Congratulations to Lauren Greenlief on winning the 99th VSGA Women’s Amateur Championship!
Congratulations are in order for Stacy Usher who won the WDCGA Andi Carpenter Cup at Army Navy CC (ARL) on Sunday, July 28. She fired a round of 93!
Congratulations to all the winners of the 2024 President’s Cup held in late July:
Championship Division: Trey Parrish
Open Division Gross: Richard Dzubin
Open Division Net: Art Witebsky
Senior Division Gross: Steve McArdle
Senior Division Net: Timothy Stallings
GO SGCC SEA LIONS! 2024 DCCL
DIVISION CHAMPIONS
SGCC’s junior swim team, the Sea Lions, had quite the season!
We welcomed 20 new Sea Lions, expanding our ranks to 106 swimmers. We also welcomed a new Head Coach, Coach Susie, who was always eager to dress up and cheer with the team, was never afraid to get her hands dirty, and was truly invested in the success of each and every swimmer.
The season was filled with both team and individual successes. The Sea Lions won the division-wide Relay Carnival for the third year in a row and were crowned Division Champions for the first time since 2016. We were represented by 36 swimmers at the All-Star Qualification meet, ten of whom advanced to Finals. SGCC brought home 20 medals overall, including seven gold medals.
Several of our swimmers were DCCL 2024 League Leaders in their events: Owen Kaeding was the League Leader in Boys 8U 25 Freestyle (17.21), Boys 8U Backstroke (22.32), and Boys 8U 25 Fly (20.81); Kara Clemans was the League Leader in the Girls 9-10 50 Freestyle (33.14); and Noah Goede was the
Three team records were also broken this season: the Boys 15-18 200 Medley Relay, standing since 2012, was broken by Chase Jones (Back), Matthew Fisher (Breast), Sam Rhye (Fly), and Ian Schaper (Free); the Boys 15-18 50 Breaststroke, standing since 1982, was broken by Ian Schaper; and the 8U Freestyle, standing since 1981, was broken by Owen Kaeding.
We are extremely proud of all our swimmers and the dedication and spirit they demonstrated throughout the season. Thank you to all of our coaches and parents for your tireless efforts and support; none of this would have been possible without you. Go Sea Lions!
League Leader in Boys 13-14 50 Backstroke (32.44).
Ladies Tennis Member Guest: A Smashing Success
The Palm Springs Swing Served Up an Afternoon of Retro-Inspired Tennis & Revelry
BY KATIE KISSAL | COMMUNICATION COMMITTEE
In its second year, the SGCC Ladies Tennis Member Guest brought a retro and colorful vibe to the SGCC campus.
With 16 teams, 32 players, and two flights of competition, the “Palm Springs Swing” was an iconic day-long event that mirrored, and rivaled, a Slim Aarons photograph. Pre-event invitations and stylebooks inspired and encouraged participants to embrace the theme and dress accordingly for tennis play and the awards luncheon afterward.
With the creative and collaborative committee of SGCC members Alison Webber, Christie Palmer, Debbie Heck, and Katie Kissal, the Palm Springs vibe was colorfully curated and no detail was spared to transport members and their guests to the iconic desert oasis.
Tennis players enjoyed a breakfast spread including a custom smoothie bar and assorted pastries while perusing pop-up shops provided by vendors Kendra Scott (jewelry) and SCOUT Bags. Tennis play started at 10:00 AM and took over the SGCC courts inside and outside.
An exciting day of tennis culminated in two sets of final matches. SGCC member Debbie Heck and guest Carolyn Ontiveros won the Flamingo flight, and SGCC member Sara Dobkin and guest Courtney Chung won the Palm Tree flight.
After a quick change, guests made their way to lunch, where they were transported to a Palm Springs cabana worthy of their inspired retro attire. Specialty cocktails were served alongside a spread including Gazpacho shooters, Kiwi Mango Grilled Shrimp and Chickpea Salad, and Pulled Lavender Chicken
Tacos. Dessert included custom tarts and macaroons by Chef Lindsay.
With the expert guidance and execution of SGCC professional staff, including Racquets, Events, and Food & Beverage, the SGCC Ladies Tennis Member Guest has become a signature event that both members and guests look forward to attending for years to come.
- 3:00PM
Learn More About Our August Events...
ADULT CITI OPEN BUS TRIP 5:30 PM
We are Headed to the Quarterfinals of the Citi Open! Join our SGCC Racquets Pros on a Trip to See Many of the World’s Best Players Battle for the DC Title. Includes Transportation To and From the Event, Ticket, and Snacks on the Bus. Registration Required, $140. Space is Limited.
FAMILY SELF-DEFENSE CLASS 1:00 - 3:00 PM
SGCC has Teamed Up with K2 Martial Arts Academy to Teach You and Your Family Moves that Could Protect You in an Emergency. Learning the Basics Can Give You Peace of Mind When Running Outdoors Alone, if You Have a Kid Going Away for School, or if You Ever Find Yourself in a Dangerous Situation. Registration Required, $10. Includes Light Refreshments.
JUNIOR TENNIS CAMP - FULL DAY ONLY
5-9
5-9
For Children Ages 6-12. Full-Day Only (10:00 AM - 3:00 PM). Includes Lunch. Registration Required. Learn More Online.
JUNIOR GOLF CAMP
For Children Ages 6-15. 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Includes Lunch. Registration Required. Learn More Online.
9 WILD WEST HOEDOWN AT THE POOL
7:00 - 11:00 PM
Join Us for an Adults Only (21+) Wild West Hoedown at the Pool! Open Bar, Dinner, and Entertainment Including a DJ, Mechanical Bull, In-Pool Chipping Contest, and More! Registration Required, $85++
12-16
16
JUNIOR TENNIS CAMP - FULL DAY ONLY
For Children Ages 6-12. Full-Day Only (10:00 AM - 3:00 PM). Includes Lunch. Registration Required. Learn More Online.
OUTDOOR PICKLEBALL CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP 5:30 PM
Register with Your Partner
17 FLOAT & FILM: MOVIE NIGHT AT THE POOL 8:30 PM
Get Ready to have a Shrektacular Night at the Pool! This Event is Complimentary, but Snacks are Available by Chit. SHREK begins at Approx. 8:30 PM 2425
SENIOR CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP
27-28 GOLF COURSE CLOSED Fall Aerification
Labor Day Picnic at the Pool
12:00 - 8:00 PM
Men’s & Women’s Doubles Tennis Club Championships
Golf Course Open Fall Member/Guest
CLUBHOUSE CLOSED MONDAYS
Men’s & Women’s Singles Tennis Club Championships
Tennis Club Championship Family Movie Night Multiple Times
Qualifying
Learn More About Our September Events...
LABOR DAY PICNIC AT THE POOL 12:00 - 8:00 PM
Our Labor Day Picnic at the Pool Will Have Fun for All Ages to Include Live Music, Yard Games, and an Inflatable Obstacle Course! Check Out the Website for the Full Menu.
Registration is Required. Food Wristbands: $24++ for Adults and $16++ Kids Ages 5-11.
15 GOAT YOGA 4:30 - 5:30 PM
Join us for a member favorite, Goat Yoga! Bring Your Own Mat/Towel and Enjoy an Outdoor Yoga Class with Baby Goats! This Event is Perfect for Adults and Children Ages 9 & Up. Registration is Required, $40/person. Rain Date is September 29.
17 WINE TASTING CLASS 6:00 - 7:00 PM
“Where Fog Meets Soil” Learn About & Taste 4 Different Wines from Sonoma and the Russian River Valley. Led by IMPERO Wine Rep Alex Kazak. Includes Light Fare. Registration Required, $30++. Members Only, Space is Limited.
19 TAYLORMADE FITTING DAY 2:00 - 6:00 PM
MEMBER/GUEST
Families are Invited for Dinner and a Movie in the Ballroom!
We Have Multiple Seatings for Dinner (5:00, 5:30, 6:00, & 6:30) with a Delicious Themed, Family-Friendly Menu. We Will Screen COCO at 7:00 PM. Registration Required. 14 WOMEN, WINE, & WEDGES 3:00 - 5:00 PM
Women’s Golf Clinic & Social | Join Your PGA Coach in a Fun, Stress-Free Environment Focused on Helping You Improve Your Short Game. We Will Cover Short Game Staples (Pitching, Chipping, Bunker Play) from 100 Yards and In. Sign Up with Your Friends & Make Some New Ones! While Learning, Enjoy Some Hors d’Oeuvres & Sip Wine. Registration Required | $65++
When Should I Update My Golf Equipment & How Do I Take Care of It?
BY ALESSANDRA MAURTUA, PGA |DIRECTOR OF GOLF
Knowing when to upgrade can significantly impact your game and overall enjoyment. Here are some key signs that it might be time for new gear:
Wear & Tear
Check your clubs for obvious signs of damage. Worn grooves on irons, dents in your driver, and loose or damaged grips are clear indicators.
Performance Decline
If your shots are becoming less consistent or you’re losing distance despite regular practice, it could be your equipment holding you back, not your swing.
Technological Advancements
Golf technology evolves rapidly. If your equipment is over five years old, you might be missing out on advancements in club design that could improve your game.
Change in Playing Style
As your skills evolve, your equipment needs might change. For example, if you’ve developed a faster swing speed, you might need clubs with different shaft flex.
Fitting & Comfort
Properly fitted clubs can make a significant difference. If your body mechanics or fitness level have changed, it might be time for a refitting.
Once you have the right equipment, maintaining it is crucial to ensuring longevity and peak performance:
Clean Your Clubs
After each round, wipe your clubs with a damp cloth to remove dirt and grass. Regularly clean the grooves with a soft brush to ensure optimal spin and control.
Grip Maintenance
Grips wear out over time, becoming smooth and slippery. Replace your grips annually or when they show signs of wear. Clean them regularly with soapy water to maintain their tackiness.
Storage
Store your clubs in a dry, temperature-controlled environment. Avoid leaving them in the trunk of your car for extended periods as extreme temperatures can damage the shafts and grips. Our
Bag Storage service will help ensure your clubs stay clean and stored in a controlled environment, providing added convenience as your clubs will always be here and ready for you when you come to play.
Headcovers
Use headcovers for your woods and putter to prevent dings and scratches during transport. This simple step can significantly extend the life of these clubs.
Regular Inspections
Periodically check your clubs for any signs of damage, including loose heads, cracked shafts, and worn grips. Address any issues immediately to prevent further damage.
If you have any questions or need help replacing grips or equipment, please consult with our golf professionals. We host fitting days throughout the year, with the next events showcasing the new GT Woods from Titleist on August 2 and September 27. We will be among the first in the section to host fitting days for this exciting new line. Additionally, we can conduct fittings at any time during the year using our Flightscope technology.
By recognizing when it’s time to update your equipment and maintaining your current gear properly, you can ensure that your game stays sharp and your investments last longer.
Coach’s Corner: Reframing
BY BRANDEN BEETS, USPTA, USTA HIGH PERFORMANCE COACH, USPTR, PPR DIRECTOR OF RACQUET SPORTS
Congratulations to all our SGCC members who joined a spring team, a Ladies, Mens, or Mixed Doubles league, or even competed in a social tennis program!
We are deep into summer, but, believe it or not, we only have a little over a month before the fall season begins. Now is the time to reflect on your spring tennis performance: How did your season go? Did you play up on a higher doubles line? Did you win every match? It’s nice to have more wins than losses, but are these the most important questions we should be asking ourselves?
Wins are great, and the success is reassurance that you are on the right path. However, I challenge you to reframe how you look at achievement. For example, instead of did you win or lose ask…
• Did you hustle for every shot, no matter the score of the game or match?
• Did you stick with your new serve motion under pressure?
• Were you split stepping and energized each point and never caught off guard?
• Were you proactively aiming volleys to specific areas of the court successfully?
• Did you take your time and strategize with your partner on changeovers?
• Did you build your partner up after they had a bad point?
These are examples of some intangibles that you can only measure internally. It is impossible and unrealistic to be perfect on every shot of every point in every game of the match, BUT did you improve in one or more of these areas? This is how we redefine success by focusing on progress.
As always, this starts on the practice courts by hearing your coaches constantly pointing out your small achievements. We aren’t taking the summer off either…Team practices are continuing weekly along with all our other adult class programs.
As you shift your focus to progress, develop your process goals in team clinics with our Pro Staff, then practice those skills in friendly matches with your teammates. Reframe your concept of achievement, and this fall you will be better prepared to deploy your improved mental and physical skills in competitive matches.
Kudos again to all our players who competed this spring. There were a lot of individual and team wins this season, but there was also a lot of success all around! If you want help coming up with process goals, please come see our Pro Staff as we are happy to guide you. Let’s continue to grow this summer on the SGCC courts.
See you out there!
Pack the Perfect Beach Cooler
BY TRAVIS SIMMONS | EXECUTIVE CHEF
Let’s get that cooler packed up and off to the beach we go! I would like to look at packing the perfect beach cooler for your summer season.
I’m a fan of packing the heavier items like beverages at the bottom with a nice layer of ice. When packing water bottles, I like to freeze them the night before. There’s nothing worse than warm drinks on the beach.
Once we have a nice layer of ice, it’s time for lunch. My friends and I like to take Hawaiian rolls and make deli sliders. Make sure to pack these in an airtight container. You can make a nice assortment of sliders this way with options for every taste. I also enjoy a frozen Uncrustables from time to time. I’m not a fan of pasta salads or mayonnaise-based dressings for sides; they are too heavy for a hot day at the beach and risk spoiling. Instead, fresh diced watermelon with chopped mint or basil makes a great side. Not only is it refreshing and delicious, but since watermelon is about 90% water it will also help keep you hydrated while you soak up the sun. Once again, make sure you’ve got air-tight containers– you don’t want the watermelon juices spilling inside your cooler or for melted ice to seep into the container.
While it’s important to have lunch during a long day on the beach, we all know that the beach cooler is really about the snacks. My absolute favorite snack while at the beach is frozen seedless grapes. They help with the temperature and are very refreshing. Honestly, any of the small, packaged chips, pretzels, or trail mix work well for snacking.
Layer your cooler in the order above (beverages on the bottom, then lunch, then snacks); this ensures you’ve packed the heavy to light and will help prevent crushing. Next, add another layer of ice then shake the cooler. That little shake helps get everything packed in tight and causes the ice to fill any gaps you may have. Air pockets of trapped warm air will sabotage
your day. Once the ice has settled try to get another layer on top, then it’s time to head to the beach!
This may not be part of the cooler packing, but don’t forget an extra battery or charging device, sunscreen, a small first aid kit, and small plastic Ziplock bags. I like to put my phone inside of the Ziplock bag to keep sand and water out. And, of course, don’t forget the sand castle kit and your favorite beach games.
Have a safe and enjoyable time this year!
Meet Janeth Fernandez, SGCC’s Banquet Captain
We are proud to announce that Janeth Fernandez has been promoted to Banquet Captain! Janeth came to us in May of 2023 from an outside catering company. She has worked hard this past year, being a part of every major Member event, private Member parties, corporate events, and our weekly Rotary and Retirees events that are hosted in the ballrooms.
Janeth is a big part of the success of these events. She is proactive, energetic, results-oriented, and always leading by example and coaching the staff around her. Janeth cares about the image of SGCC and values our culture of teamwork and the overall respect our Club has for staff contributions.
Janeth enjoys collaborating on ideas with her team, noting how the sense of respect and teamwork leads a fun work environment. She appreciates the gentleness and kindness from her teammates and the SGCC membership.
Please say hello and congratulate Janeth on a well-deserved promotion...something special is happening at Springfield!
Did You Know...
We’re already booking up for holiday parties! Whether you’re planning to host a family get-together or a company-wide holiday celebration, don’t wait too long to reach out to our Director of Catering & Special Events, Jody Henderson.
In order to secure your date, you’ll want to know the day/time of your event as well as back-up dates, the kind of party you’ll be hosting, and a rough idea of how many people will be in attendance. Having this information before emailing Jody will help ensure we find the right room and menu for your perfect party! You can contact Jody at events@sgccva.org.
Membership Corner
BY SHELLY GOOREVICH MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR
Nathan and Jennifer Adams live in Fairfax Station with their two children: Camden (4) and Easton (3). Nathan was raised in Fairfax Station, is a Lake Braddock High School alum, and graduated from Coastal Carolina University. Jen was raised in Buffalo, New York, and graduated from Johns Hopkins University prior to relocating to Northern Virginia. Nathan is a small business owner and commercial real estate broker. Jen is a Fairfax County Public Schools teacher. They are an active family, always on the go, and are eager to embrace the many programs and activities here at SGCC.
Carrie Boggs grew up in Southern Maryland but has lived in Virginia since 2018. Prior to that, she was in Los Angeles, CA for a couple of years. Carrie recently purchased her first home in Alexandria and has two fur babies: an eleven-year-old dog named Abe (short for Abraham Lincoln) and a nine-year-old cat named Aria. Carrie’s main hobby is fitness/exercise. She frequently uses the Peleton Bike and Tread in her home gym but is looking forward to using the Fitness Center at the Club and taking some classes. Carrie is also hoping to learn to play golf and tennis, and of course make some new friends!
Emily Collins graduated from The George Washington University in 2021 after which she commissioned as an officer in the United States Navy. She just returned to Springfield after completing her service as a Surface Warfare Officer serving aboard the USS Mobile Bay and the USS Stockdale. Emily’s parents are members of SGCC, and she is excited to join as a member as well. She currently lives in Springfield and enjoys traveling, trying new restaurants, and spending time with her family. Emily is very much looking forward to playing lots of pickleball, tennis, and learning to golf.
Carrie Boggs
Nathan, Jennifer, Camden, & Easton Adams
Emily Collins
Andrew Gordon and Katherine Zeller have lived in Arlington for the past three years. Andrew is an avid golfer who has played his whole life, while Katherine is just getting started. Andrew works at Ginnie Mae and Katherine is a nurse at INOVA Fairfax. They both look forward to meeting new friends at the Club.
Ben and Pam Inners, along with their children, Griffin (10) and Brooks (8), just moved to Northern Virginia and chose to settle here upon Ben’s retirement after 20 years of activeduty service in the United States Air Force. They have lived all over the world, but after recently purchasing a home just off the 8th green, they are home now! When not engaged with professional endeavors, you will find Ben volunteering with the CYO sports program at their boys’ school and coaching the NFL flag football youth program at the St. James. Pam is a supportive and nurturing volunteer in the classroom and as a chaperone with their children’s school. They are excited for the opportunity to be part of this Club and community, and are looking forward to meeting, socializing, participating in activities, and having fun with everyone at SGCC.
Megan and Chris Jones met while attending High Point University in North Carolina. They have been happily married for seven years and currently live in Alexandria with their two children, Ellie (4) and Zoey (1). Megan grew up in Connecticut while Chris was born and raised in northeast Ohio. When Chris isn’t busy working as a patent attorney, they enjoy being outdoors and spending time with family and friends. The family enjoys spending time vacationing in Avalon, NJ during the summertime. They are looking forward to spending time at the pool, getting the girls involved in all the Club has to offer and, of course, socializing with members!
Ben, Pam, Griffin, & Brooks Inners
Andrew Gordon & Katherine Zeller
Megan, Chris, Ellie, & Zoey Jones
Andrew and Ariane Katz have lived in the DC area for more than 20 years and currently reside in Arlington. Andrew is originally from the Philadelphia area. Ariane attended high school in the Seattle area. Andrew is a CPA and Ariane is a stay-at-home mom. Andrew and Ariane have three children: Lewis (9), Ethan (6), and Shayna (4). The family stays busy with little league baseball, dance, swim, hikes, and travel. They are looking forward to playing golf, pickleball, and making new friends at SGCC.
With a dynamic career spanning finance, hospitality, and the Medspa industry, Amparo Rosen brings a wealth of experience to the table. Amparo holds a degree from American University and a postgraduate qualification from Stanford University. Beyond her professional pursuits, she is an active member of the Tony Robbins Platinum Partners, engaging deeply in personal and professional development. Outside of work, Amparo cherishes traveling to new destinations and relishes long lunches with stunning views, appreciating the finer moments in life.
Amparo Rosen
Andrew, Ariane, Lewis, Ethan, & Shayna Katz
3rd Annual Grass Court Pro Exhibition
On Sunday, July 7, 180 members and their guests braved the heat and came out to celebrate SGCC’s Wimbledoninspired event. Many thanks to the Golf and Greens Departments for converting the Driving Range into a grass tennis court so members could enjoy this unique experience.
The event included live music by The Courtney Nero Quartet, an array of delicious food and drink, and a full slate of tennis matches and games.
The pros duked it out on the grass court with a Men’s Doubles match and a Women’s Doubles match, but we also had a Junior Academy Live Ball Demo, a Serve Speed competition, a Chip & Volley contest, and Ghost in the Graveyard with Adult and Junior divisions. Congratulations to our winners:
• Jackie Kushman, Women’s Serve Speed
• Grant Goltry, Men’s Serve Speed
• Kara Clemans, Girls 12U Serve Speed
• Sean Banh, Boys 12U Serve Speed
• Leo Gulino & Wesley Beets, Junior Live Ball
• Andrew Clemans, Junior Ghost in the Graveyard
• Alex and Katie Kissal, Chip & Volley
• Steve Dumas, Adult Ghost in the Graveyard
Thank you to everyone who came out we look forward to seeing you next year!
Springfield Retirees Rise to First Place in Division
BY RUSTY ROESCH
Our latest string of wins has ensured a first-place position in our division and as of press time, moves us to the second-best winning percentage league wide. Army Navy Country Club (Fairfax) is right behind us by only ½ game. There are many more games to come and we are currently very close behind last year’s season champion and a very competitive team from Heritage Hunt Golf & Country Club.
In a close match on May 16 at home, Springfield Retirees unfortunately lost to Chantilly National Golf & Country Club by a score of 17 to 19. Chantilly also took three of the four sweeps. Mark Crook and Mark Waters shined by delivering three points. Mark Crook was low gross with a 78 (net 72), and he and Mark Waters won second place in the sweeps.
On May 30, we descended on International Country Club and came away with a big win, 20 to 16. The day was nearly perfect, and we fought hard for a very important win on the road. Brad Westermann/Steve Thormahlen, Soon Chang/John Benda, and Bob Brien/John Pitrelli all delivered three points. Soon Chang and Jack Mayer delivered highly competitive low net scores at 69, followed closely by Mike Saylor (70), Steve Thormahlen (70), Brad Westermann (71), Ban Tran (71), and Al Kuhns (72).
We followed up with another win on June 6 against International at home, 26 to 12. Four teams took three points: George Alapas/Jesus Medrano, Chuck Carlton/Rob Monick, Walt Szczypinski/Bob Plimpton, and Jordan Weinstein/Peter Lee. Charles Rolen turned in a low gross 74 (net 67) and, after a lengthy absence, Steve Bartlett delivered the low net for the day with a 65. Springfield took three of four sweeps to carry the day.
On June 11, our team did another great job delivering a decisive win at home over Belle Haven County Club 20½ to 15½. We also took two of the sweeps: second place went to Walter Burkhardt/Jack Mayer while Bruce Nordstrom/Bruce Sheaffer landed fourth place. Low gross scores included Walter Burkhardt (81), Bruce Sheaffer (83), Brad Westermann (83), and Charles Rolen (83). Albie Lau shined with the low net for
the day with a 69 followed closely by Walter Burkhardt (70), Bruce Sheaffer (70), Mark Waters (70), Peter Lee (70), Jack Mayer (71), and John Pitrelli (71). Unfortunately, we lost a tough-fought away match at Belle Haven on June 20 by a score of 31½ to 4½.
The following week, on June 27, Springfield Retirees rebounded at home, defeating Mount Vernon 23 to 13. Mike Saylor was again low gross with a 79. Rex Simmons had low net honors with a 66! We had a very strong showing by taking all four sweeps: George Alapas/Rusty Roesch won first place with a net 65, followed closely by Peter Lee/Rex Simmons who also had net 65.
On July 11, it was a bit cooler, a bit breezier, and we got off the cart path. We won over Country Club of Fairfax at home 22½ to 13½. Three-point winners included Mike Saylor/John Benda along with Charles Rolen/Steve Thormahlen. Springfield took three of four sweeps: first place went to Jim Workman/Mark Waters (net 62), second to Pat Cavanagh/Mark Morganfield (63), and fourth to Mike Saylor/John Benda (66). Mike Saylor scored the low gross 76 while low net scores went to Mark Morganfield (68), Mike Saylor (69), Jim Workman (70), Mark Waters (70), and Walter Burkhardt (72).
The Retirees need new players every year; it is never too late to join (just be 50+ and dreaming about retirement). For more information, please contact Bruce Nordstrom at bnorthstream@yahoo.com or call 202.494.6558.
WGA-9 News
BY ERIN JONES
The WGA9 at SGCC is alive with a group of 103 members. Wednesday brings us a new opportunity to better our golf, have a great walk, and enjoy socializing with both new and old friends. Alison Webber, WGA9 Chair, and Claire Giambastiani, Wednesday Play Chair, have beautifully prepared and executed great mornings with fun games, email recognition for successes, and a beautifully crafted, dynamic board near the Ladies Locker Room in the main club house.
Our outings have included an April Fool’s Day Theme, Kentucky Derby Theme, Flag Day, a Spa Outing, and Barbiethemed Buddy Day!
Turf Talk
BY SHAWN GILL | GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENT
Summer arrived early this year and it has refused to let up. As has been evident by the pond levels over the last month, we’ve had to use much more water than in a “normal” year and we are still running at a deficit in many areas of the course as compared to what the turf requires for healthy growth. I will say, however, that the turf has been incredibly resilient. A few days ago, I pulled a plug from the twelfth fairway in a spot that appeared somewhat stressed but had not “browned out” at that point. Using a hammer, I was able to penetrate to 8 inches with my probe and when I pulled the sample from the ground, it was dry as a desert from top to bottom. While this is a precarious condition when the temperatures are in the mid 90’s with no rain in sight, it also means that the turf has very deep and healthy roots that are able to obtain adequate moisture to sustain the plant.
No doubt you’ve all noticed that many areas of rough have gone dormant, causing them to turn brown. Some of these areas are not covered by the irrigation system and some have not been watered as a means of water conservation. For over a week, we relied on water from a fire hydrant to supply our irrigation needs. The hydrant does not have enough flow to match all of the turf’s requirements, so each evening I would adjust the irrigation programs to put water where it was needed most without depleting the pond beyond what we were able to replace daily. Typically, this situation only lasts for a short while and some timely summer showers refill our ponds giving us the ability to irrigate properly.
I know it is difficult to be restricted to cart paths when it is so incredibly hot outside and I know that some of you are not able to play during these times. I thank you for understanding that I am looking out for the long-term success of the course and that I do not take that responsibility lightly. The one thing I often tell people when they ask for an explanation as to why I won’t let carts drive in the grass during the extreme heat and dry conditions, is that the turf feels exactly as they do: tired, weak, and ready to collapse. I also point to some of the areas where carts have driven through the dry rough and have left tire tracks. I explain that these tracks will remain for a long time and permanent damage has been done to the turf and that we would not want a similar fate for the fairways. Again, thank you for your cooperation in helping the course survive during these stressful periods.
One part of the course that does not mind the hot weather is the driving range tee, which is covered in hybrid Bermudagrass. It thrives in the heat and that is why we are able to try to kill it by shaving it down and turning part of it into a tennis court during the most extreme heat of the season. It’s really pretty incredible.
In order to prepare the turf surface for what are the only grass court tennis matches in the DC area and one of our signature events, we start manipulating part of our range tee as soon as the soils heat up enough to awaken the warm season turf, but the work actually begins the previous year. We begin by
topdressing the area heavily in the fall in order to fill in any residual divots. The most important part of the preparation occurs at the beginning of summer when we lower the height of cut a little every few days and roll the surface almost daily. The shorter grass provides a smooth surface and the rolling firms up the surface; both attributes are needed so that the tennis balls will have a predictable and springy bounce. This requires daily maintenance for weeks ahead of the Wimbledon exhibition matches. Each year I have been overseeing the preparation, I think we are going to end up with a large dead rectangle of grass on the range tee as we shave the grass down nearly to the same length as we mow the greens and we roll the surface over and over again. Then after the lines are painted, everyone shows up wearing white and cheering on the players, and the grass begins to recover the next day after a little bit of rest. It’s a lot of work and a lot of fun and great to have something that is unique to Springfield.
And now to turn in a completely different direction. I would like to spotlight one of your Greens Crew. Rony Garcia has been a part of the SGCC Turf Maintenance team for nearly 19 years. He is truly one of the most talented people I’ve worked with. Not to sound conceited, but I consider myself to be one of the best cup changers in the industry. However, I cannot match the skills of Mr. Garcia. When I arrived at SGCC a few years ago, I observed his technique (different from the way I like to perform the operation) and the results he was able to achieve all while completing the task more quickly than I could. I was determined to show that my way was better. I WAS NOT ABLE TO DO IT! He’s just plain better and you all are the fortunate beneficiaries of his skills. Rony can competently operate every piece of equipment we have, he performs chemical applications, he heads up most of our construction projects (think walled bench areas by #6 tee and #15 green tee as well as the grill platform next to the clubhouse) and he is the go-to for cutting in the edges on our sod projects. He has a great eye for the details that make a completed job shine. This year, Rony has begun taking on Foremen duties and helping to manage the crew. The icing on the cake is his attitude towards members. He smiles and is friendly with everyone and I’ve had several members point this out to me. Thank you for recognizing his positive attitude.
Rony is one of many who work pretty much in the background to help provide the amazing member experience that is Springfield Golf and Country Club. Over the next months, I’ll be introducing you to some of the Greens Department crew, many of who have been here for nearly two decades or more, continually improving this great facility. It has been a lot of fun for me getting to know them and I think it will be for you as well.
