Woodbridge Golf & Country Club January 2025 News

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A Publication of Woodbridge Golf & Country Club

Published by

Woodbridge Golf & Country Club

950 E Woodbridge Rd, Woodbridge, CA 95258

Digital version available at www.woodbridgegcc.net

Officers

President Nolan Person | VP Mark Berry |

Treasurer Tore Maggio | Secretary Stan Demski | Past President Cody Diede

Directors

Brian Bowling, Dan Grauman, Rich Parejo, Andy Petersen, Laura Reeves, Josh Sturman

Club Contacts

Ryan Bill, General Manager 263-0113 | rbill@woodbridgegcc.com

Questions about this publication should be directed to Kristine Roberson, 263-0115, or kroberson@woodbridgegcc.com

Membership & Marketing Director Kristine Roberson 263-0115 | kroberson@woodbridgegcc.com

Assistant GM/Controller Jared Burns 263-0116 | jburns@woodbridgegcc.com

Human Resources Specialist Nabila Amin 263-0114 | namin@woodbridgegcc.com

Administration Office 334-5454 x 100

Food & Beverage Director Kelley Mori 263-0112 | kmori@woodbridgegcc.com

Events Coordinator Melissa Becerra 263-0121 | mbecerra@woodbridgegcc.com

Cafe 263-0133 | Private Events 263-0121

Head Golf Professional John Hughes, PGA 368-2685 | jhughes@woodbridgegcc.com

Golf Course Superintendent Lou Silveira lsilveira@woodbridgegcc.com

Player Development Professional Ryan Williams 369-2371 | rawilliams@woodbridgegcc.com

Golf Shop/Tee Times 369-2371

Fitness Center Coordinator Tariq Glenn 370-6330 | sports@woodbridgegcc.com

Tennis Professional Mauricio Achondo, USPTA 327-5659 | machondo@woodbridgegcc.com

Tennis Professional Haley Marais, USPTA 275-5158 | hmarais@woodbridgegcc.com

Sports Complex & Reservations 370-6330

2025 JANUARY THE TAP IN Short, quick news

Jan 31 is deadline for last names starting with M-R

If your last name starts with M-R, 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.

Upcoming Member Events & Meetings

Jan 2: Charity Bridge

Jan 15: Wine Tasting

Jan 18: Wine Blow Out Sale

Jan 19: Hot Ones Challenge

Jan 20: Martin Luther King, Jr Holiday — Club is open

Jan 21: Club is CLOSED

Scores

Pat Kishida & Kathy Munson Group 2

Janis Morehead & Sheryl Raumann

Group 3

Jean Devine & Jo Anne Barkley

A VISION FOR 2025: Charting Our Club’s Future

As we close out 2024, it’s a perfect time to celebrate our progress and plan for the exciting opportunities ahead.

As President, I’m proud to outline our vision for 2025—focusing on capital improvements, strategic growth, and fiscal responsibility.

Capital Improvements: Building for the Future

Enhancing our facilities remains a top priority to meet members' evolving needs and elevate their experiences.

Key initiatives include:

Clubhouse Renovations: A blend of aesthetic and functional upgrades to create elegant, welcoming spaces optimized for social gatherings and events.

Facility Upgrades:

• Resurfacing tennis courts for improved playability.

• Replacing the kitchen HVAC system for better efficiency.

• Investing in golf course maintenance equipment to ensure year-round course excellence.

These enhancements will strengthen our Club as a premier destination for golf, recreation, and social connection.

Creating a FiveYear Strategic Plan

2025 marks the launch of our comprehensive fiveyear plan, centered on:

1. Member Engagement:

Fiscal Responsibility

Growth requires financial mindfulness. We are committed to balanced budgets, sustainable investments, and maintaining a strong reserve fund. Membership dues will remain competitive, providing value that exceeds cost while ensuring the Club’s long-term success.

With strategic improvements and sound financial planning, we’ll shape a bright future—creating lasting memories and ensuring a vibrant, welcoming community for generations to come.

New family-friendly programs, improved communication, and initiatives to deepen the memberclub connection.

2. Community Outreach: Expanding our charitable efforts and partnerships to enhance our role as a positive community cornerstone.

3. Revenue Diversification: Exploring new income opportunities, such as hosting tournaments, weddings, and outside events, while keeping member value and satisfaction our priority.

Looking Ahead

Thank you for your continued support and passion for our Club. With strategic improvements and sound financial planning, we’ll shape a bright future—creating lasting memories and ensuring a vibrant, welcoming community for generations to come.

Sincerely,

A CLUB ATMOSPHERE FOR

As we welcome the vibrant energy of the season, we would like to take a moment to remind everyone about the importance of maintaining a respectful and inviting atmosphere in our Café and new banquet room.

We encourage all members to engage in friendly conversation and enjoy the company of fellow members. However, we kindly ask that you be mindful of your volume

ALL

and language. Loud cursing and disruptive behavior can detract from the experience of others, and we want to ensure that our Club remains a welcoming space for all.

Thank you for your cooperation and for helping us uphold the decorum that makes our Country Club a special place to gather. We appreciate your understanding and look forward to seeing you around the Club.

Two Great Ways to Share Your Club in 2025: Golf Preview & Legacy Programs

Welcome to 2025! I’m excited to announce two fantastic programs designed to make it easier for you to share the Woodbridge experience with friends and family. Whether you want to introduce your golf friends to our exceptional greens or ensure your family’s legacy at the Club, these programs offer meaningful ways to grow our community while enjoying exclusive benefits.

The Golf Preview Membership Program: A One-Year Trial to Love the Club

For the first time in our history, Woodbridge is offering a 12-month Golf Preview Membership, giving your friends an exclusive opportunity to experience the full range of Club benefits—without the longterm commitment.

Highlights of the Program:

• One-Year Trial: Guests can enjoy a full year of membership at a significantly reduced cost.

• Exclusive Initiation Fee: Join for just $2,000 (a dramatic savings from our standard $12,000 fee).

• Full Membership Access: Unlimited golf, dining, fitness, pools, tennis, pickleball, and social events.

• No Long-Term Obligation: After the 12 months, they decide if they want to continue—and their $2,000 initiation fee can be applied toward renewing.

• Program is Limited: The Board has approved 10 spots for this program. If you know someone who could benefit from this program, contact me immediately so they can take advantage of this offer.

The Golf Preview Membership Program is the perfect way for your friends to immerse themselves in the Woodbridge experience and discover why so many call our Club their second home. From our stunning 27-hole championship golf course to year-round amenities and memorable social events, this program truly showcases the best of Woodbridge.

The Legacy Program: A Gateway for Family—and an Opportunity for You

The Legacy Program is more than just a way for your loved ones to join the Club; it’s also a chance for you to enhance your membership at no additional cost.

Program Features:

• NO Initiation Fee: Family members can join at no initiation fee (with a two-year commitment to membership), making it more affordable to join.

• Multi-Generational Connection: Whether it’s your children, grandchildren, or extended family, this program is tailored to build lasting ties at Woodbridge.

• Shared Experiences: Create memories together on the golf course, at family events, and throughout the Club’s many amenities.

• Limited Time Only: The Legacy Program is only offered through March! Make sure your family members take advantage of this offer soon!

WELCOME DECEMBER’S NEW MEMBERS

MEMBERSHIP COUNT

AS OF 12/31/24

FULL GOLF: 464

LIMITED GOLF: 58

NON GOLF: 258

TOTAL: 780

Michael West, Jr

Full Golf

Sponsor: Membership Committee

Michael was raised in the Lodi area, and enjoys golf. He is the owner of Certified Collission Center and Morgan Automotive Repair.

CJ & Corrine Jensen

Sports

Sponsor: Mark Lill

The Jensens are former members of Stockton and Brookside. They are looking forward to spending time at Woodbridge with friends.

This program ensures your family can continue to enjoy Woodbridge for years to come, keeping traditions alive and building new ones for future generations.

Upgrade Your Membership:

As a current member, you can take advantage of the Legacy Program to elevate your own membership level. Current members can jump up in categories for no additional upgrade fee during the Legacy Program (through March 2025 only).

This is a great opportunity to unlock additional amenities and experiences, from more access to the golf course to expanded fitness and recreational options, all while deepening your engagement with the Club.

Make

2025 the Year of Sharing

Both the Golf Preview Membership and Legacy Programs are designed to strengthen our Woodbridge community and give you a way to share your Club with those who matter most.

How to Get Started:

To refer a friend for the Golf Preview Membership, or to learn more about the Legacy Program, contact Kristine in the Membership Office.

Please share these opportunities with your golf buddies, neighbors, and family members—it’s the perfect way to grow our Club and create lasting connections. Let’s make 2025 a year to remember by welcoming new faces and strengthening the bonds that make Woodbridge the heart of your social and recreational life.

Mark Your Calendars: Happy Hour Wine Tasting

Join us for a delightful evening of wine tasting on Wed, Jan 15, 5–7pm at the Club. Sample a variety of wines provided by local distributors, available for tasting and purchase at special member pricing.

This exclusive event is for adults only, and is limited in space, so reserve your spot soon! Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and purchase food from the Bar Menu to complement your wine selections. Don’t miss this perfect opportunity to savor great wines with great company! RSVP online.

Don’t miss the Wine & Liquor Sale

On Sat, Jan 18, from 10am to 4pm, the Food & Beverage Department will have a table set up with a wide selection of wines and liquors available for purchase by the bottle at deep discounts. Stock up on your favorites or discover something new—this is the perfect opportunity to elevate your collection. Quantities are limited, so come early!

Goodbye forever, Styrofoam!

We are switching from Styrofoam cups to paper cups to comply with new state regulations aimed at reducing environmental impact and due to the limited availability of Styrofoam from our suppliers. While paper cups may feel different, they align with our commitment to sustainability and maintaining compliance with evolving standards. Thank you for your understanding and support as we make this adjustment together.

SPICE IT UP Join our Hot Ones Challenge!

Are you ready to test your taste buds and take on the heat?

Join us at the Club on Sun, Jan. 19, from 2-4pm for an event like no other: the Hot Ones Challenge! Inspired by the wildly popular YouTube series Hot Ones, this event will bring the heat, the fun, and the flavor to Woodbridge Golf & Country Club.

What is Hot Ones?

For the uninitiated, Hot Ones is a hit YouTube show that combines celebrity interviews with a fiery twist. Hosted by Sean Evans, each episode features a guest answering questions while eating progressively spicier chicken wings, often leading to hilarious, tear-filled moments of honesty. From athletes and actors to musicians and comedians, Hot Ones has attracted big names and become a pop culture phenomenon. Now, it’s your turn to step into the hot seat!

The Challenge

We’re recreating the Hot Ones experience right here at the Club. Members can purchase a plate of our specially prepared wings, each featuring a different level of heat. Think you have what it takes to conquer them all? Participants who make it through every spice level will earn bragging rights and their wings for free!

Whether you're a heat-seeker or just in it for the fun, this event promises to be a great time for everyone. Not up for the full challenge? Come watch your fellow members face the flames and enjoy the camaraderie. We’ll have a variety of beverages on hand to cool things down, plus our usual welcoming atmosphere to keep the heat from getting too overwhelming.

Mark Your Calendar

Don’t miss this exciting, flavor-packed event! The Hot Ones Challenge is the perfect opportunity to spice up your weekend and connect with fellow members. Gather your friends, muster your courage, and join us on Jan 19, 2-4pm Let’s see who can handle the heat at Woodbridge!

For more information or to reserve your spot, sign up on the website.

We can’t wait to see who rises to the challenge—are you in?

GOLF UPDATE

2025 Men’s Tournament Program

Men’s Annual Golf Tournament Program

1) Men’s Point Events; $100 registration fee. Members must opt-out.

Includes:

• No entry fees & prize funds in Golf Shop Credit Book.

• Wednesday Twilight League Fee ($40).

• All funds 100% paid out during the year:

• 12% to Wednesday Twilight League

• 12-13% to Majors (2)

• 9% to Minors (6)

• 9% to winners in the point system.

2) Members opting out may play in up to 2 events @ $30 entry fee; Weekday & Twilight Members pay $75 guest fee on weekend morning tournaments.

3) Opt-outs, Weekday & Twilight may join Wed. League @ $40 fee.

4) Optional Cash Buy-Ins for all events (skins, 9’s, etc.).

2025 point-event schedule:

Feb 15: Kickoff Tourn./NCGA Zone Qualifier

Mar 15: St. Patrick’s Day Scramble

May 17 & 18: Woodbridge Ryder Cup

Jun 4: Twilight League (start)

Jun 7, 8, 14 & 15: (Gross) Club Championship

Matches in June: (Net) Club Championship

Jul 12: Triple Play Tournament

Aug 23 & 24: President’s Cup

Oct 25: Superintendent’s Revenge Tourn.

Nov 15: Finale Tournament

Other 2025 golf events:

Jun 19, 20 & 21: Tokay Invitational (Jun 18 practice round)

Aug 2: Junior Club Championship

Sep 3 & 4: Women’s Invitational

Sep 20 & 21: Vocker Cup

Matches in Oct-Nov: Senior Club Championship

Bunker Rake Placement

Course maintenance crew will place bunker rakes with the rake-head in the bunker, and the handle out. The ongoing goal is to have rakes in a consistent position. So, in the

unfortunate circumstance when your ball is in a bunker, after raking the sand following your shot out, please return rakes to the designated position. Golfers behind you will be appreciative!

Golf Rules

Previous Question –

A spectator deliberately deflects a player’s ball in motion after a stroke from the general area. The ball would have come to rest in a bunker. What is the ruling?

Answer –

The player must take relief based on the estimated spot where the ball would have come to rest if it was not deflected or stopped. Rule 11-2.

This Month’s Question –

In stroke play, a player begins taking their stance while their caddie stands on the fringe of the putting green on an extension of the line of play behind the ball; the player then plays. What’s the ruling?

Remembering Jim

"Jim molded my career. Sitting at his old desk today is a daily reminder of his impact."

Woodbridge Golf & Country Club honors the legacy of Jim Husting, CGCS, who dedicated 32 years to our Club as head superintendent. Renowned for his expertise in cultivating Poa annua greens under the challenging conditions of California’s Central Valley, Jim passed away on Dec. 20 after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

Jim joined Woodbridge in 1987, bringing with him a deep passion for turf management and a dedication to excellence. His ability to maintain toptier greens, even during the region’s extreme summer temperatures, set a standard admired by many. He was affectionately known as the “Poa dude” by his peers, a testament to his unmatched skill in growing and maintaining this challenging grass.

Jim’s impact extended well beyond the course, as members fondly recall his kindness and willingness to go the extra mile. Dianne Wheeler, a longtime member, shared a memorable story of Jim’s quick thinking and generosity. While golfing on the Lake Course, she found herself stuck knee-deep in mud, with fellow players frozen in surprise, more focused on taking pictures than helping. True to his character, Jim came out to rescue her, earning her lifelong gratitude. In return, she thanked him with a gift basket and a heartfelt card that read, “My good fortune is having a friend like you.” For Dianne, Jim truly was her good fortune that day.

Beyond his contributions to the course, Jim was a mentor and leader in the industry. He served as president of three GCSAA chapters and as government relations director for the Northern California chapter for over a decade. For 15 years, he also shared his knowledge as an adjunct professor at San Joaquin Delta College, shaping the next generation of turfgrass professionals.

Jim’s influence extended to the Woodbridge community as well. His guidance and mentorship were instrumental in shaping the careers of many, including our current head superintendent, Lou Silveira. Lou, who began as Jim’s assistant in 1998, fondly recalls the thoughtful leadership and unwavering commitment Jim brought to his work. "Jim molded my career," Lou shared. "Sitting at his old desk today is a daily reminder of his impact."

In retirement, Jim continued his commitment to stewardship, serving on the board of Sound Water Stewards in Washington. His dedication to sustainability and education remained steadfast throughout his life.

Jim is survived by his children, Erica and Harrison, and Harrison’s wife, Marissa. His legacy lives on in the vibrant greens he cultivated, the careers he shaped, and the community he inspired.

Woodbridge Golf & Country Club extends its heartfelt condolences to Jim’s family and invites members to join us in honoring his remarkable legacy.

January’s Tip of the Month The Art of Staying Humble on the Golf Course: Embracing the Learner’s Mindset

“It’s what you learn after you think you know it all that matters.”
– Claude Harmon, Sr.

As we enter a new year, I’d like to begin 2025 with a moment of vulnerability. The ego is a funny thing, and in golf, it can be just as destructive as a bad swing. Winter, with its rainy days and fewer rounds, often becomes a natural time for reflection. It’s amazing how often I’ve had to relearn lessons that have little to do with my golf swing and everything to do with my ego—and ultimately, my personality. I’ve found myself in this cycle repeatedly over the years, and I’ve described it to my wife many times. Let me break it down for you:

For better or worse, my golf journey has followed a familiar pattern, which I like to visualize as a cycle It always begins with a period of solid play and a sense of satisfaction.

The game feels good, the scores are low, and enjoyment is high. But then, a fear begins to creep in—fear that this success will somehow slip away. Suddenly, I’m trying to hold on to the techniques and concepts that have worked for me like Sylvester Stallone clinging to a cliff in Cliffhanger—desperate not to fall. This inevitably leads to stress, overthinking, and an unhealthy attachment to those “successful” concepts. Unfortunately, in golf, this is like tightening your grip on a wet club—it only makes the game more difficult.

As the pressure builds, golf becomes less enjoyable. The rounds feel more like labor than leisure. Eventually, after enough frustration, I reach a point where I have no choice but to release the ego, let go of my old patterns, and admit that I’m not perfect. Only then, with humility, does the cycle start to shift. When I let go of control and embrace the learner’s mindset, it’s incredible how quickly both my skill and my overall enjoyment of the game improve. And sometimes, when I’m open to learning again, peak performances appear.

But here's the kicker: the minute I achieve success, my ego starts to creep back in, convincing me that I have it all figured out. And just like that, the cycle begins anew.

Fortunately, after years of experience, I’ve learned to recognize the warning signs earlier. I now understand that instead of giving up on golf altogether (as I did back in 2009, nearly walking away from my Division 1 college scholarship), I can take a step back, take a weekend off, and reset. I’ve learned how to shorten the “downward” parts of the cycle, gaining perspective before I let frustration take control. And I’m sure that many of you who play this great game can relate to this dynamic—not just in golf, but in other areas of life as well.

A wise man once told me that being a learner is key to mastery. Tommy Masters, who taught me how to play, remains one of the best coaches I’ve ever had. During a time when I was taking a break from the game, he sent me an email with some words I’ll never forget: "If we choose to be learners, then we can stay on the path toward mastery." To Tommy, being a learner wasn’t a casual choice. It required humility—a balance of confidence in what you believe to be true, but not so much that you are unwilling to be challenged and learn from new experiences.

Ironically, most students don’t reach out to a coach when things are going well—they call when they are at rock bottom, when their confidence is shattered, and their game feels like it's fallen apart. But this is often the best time to be a student. At rock bottom, you’re ready to listen. Your “cup” is empty, open, and receptive. Without the interference of your own ego, a coach’s words can find a way to break through and lead to improvement—often almost immediately.

This is where humility pays off.

So, the real question is: How can we maintain that ideal learner’s mindset, even after achieving success?

Key Principles to Maintain a Learner’s Mindset:

1. A Deep Understanding of What You Control

In golf, as in life, there are many things we simply cannot control. You can’t control the weather, the bounces, or the occasional bad break. But what you can control is your attitude, your commitment to your process, and how you react to challenges. Accepting this reality is

a crucial step in keeping your ego in check.

2. A Focus on Process Over Results

Golf is a game of practice, patience, and perseverance. The most successful golfers know that the scorecard is secondary to the effort and attitude they bring to each round. Rather than obsessing over the final result, focus on the steps that will help you improve— your pre-shot routine, your mental approach, your swing mechanics. Results will follow naturally when you commit to the process.

3. Describing Results Without Judgment

One of the biggest traps golfers fall into is attaching judgment to their results. "Good" and "bad" shots are just labels. The key to improvement is being able to describe your shots objectively without emotional language. For example, instead of saying “I hit a terrible shot,” try, “I didn’t execute the shot as I intended, but here’s what I can learn from it.” By removing the emotional charge, you free yourself from the negative feedback loop that often comes with poor play.

The truth is, mastery in golf—just like in life—requires continuous learning and growth. And to grow, we need to remain humble, to be learners, and to recognize that every experience—whether it's a success or a failure—offers an opportunity for improvement.

As we enter the new year, I challenge you to embrace the learner’s mindset, to leave behind the grip of the ego, and to focus on the process rather than the outcome. And when you do, I have no doubt that your game will improve in ways you never expected.

Happy New Year, and happy learning!

SIENNA KEIGLEY MEET

Sienna is 6 years old, and a very proud kindergartener. She is committed to her piano, swim, taekwondo, and is excited to soon earn her orange belt. For years, she has said she wanted to be a volcanologist when she grows up. But when asked again right now, she said “I think I just want to be me.”

JR TENNIS PLAYER OF THE MONTH

Happy New Year, Woodbridge!

JANUARY AT THE SPORTS COMPLEX

We’re excited to kick off 2024 with engaging activities and updates to help you start the year strong.

Join Our New Year’s Fitness Challenge!

Start the year off right with our fun and rewarding Fitness Challenge. Stay active, meet your goals, and win exciting prizes!

How It Works:

1. Pick up your punch card at the Fitness Center.

2. Get your card punched after every workout.

3. Once your card is completely punched, you’ll be entered into a drawing for a special prize!

Earn Bonus Punches Each Week:

• Week 1 (1/1): Pick up your punch card and join the Winter Challenge.

• Week 2 (1/8): Attend a group class before 12 p.m. for a bonus punch.

• Week 3 (1/15): Meet with a personal trainer to earn 2 bonus punches.

• Week 4 (1/22): Attend an evening group class to earn a bonus punch.

• Week 5 (1/29): Play pickleball this week and earn a bonus punch (paddles available).

• Week 6 (2/5): Complete 30 minutes of cardio this week for a bonus punch.

Challenge yourself, have fun, and make this your healthiest year yet!

Tennis League Resumes Jan 15

Our ladies' tennis league will return to action on Jan.15. Come out and show your support!

Ball Machine Policy Update

Effective this month, a $30 fee will apply if the ball machine is used by more than one person.

Here’s to a fantastic start to the new year at your Club!

WOMEN’S GOLF UPDATE

December: Fast and Wet

December was a short month, and the weather left much to be desired. However, we still celebrated the season with our annual Christmas party. A special thank you to Laura Reeves for organizing a fantastic lunch and to Kim D’Angelo for overseeing the members’ gifts. A few of our Ladies brought extra holiday cheer by decorating the tables in their unique Christmas styles.

During the party, we handed out the 2024 awards. Congratulations to all the winners! Most Improved Golfer went to Jill Thompson.

This year, we welcomed five new members to our group. Sadly, we also said goodbye to Jackie Katzakian, who will be playing with the Niners next year.

As we move into 2025, Kim D’Angelo and Laura Reeves will continue as Co-Captains. We’re excited to welcome Melissa Krebill to the board as our new Rules Chair and Rene Donaldson as Member-at-Large. We look forward to another great year with the WWGA!

We also want to extend our heartfelt thanks to the Woodbridge staff for all they do to make our events successful and enjoyable. Here’s to a fun and successful 2025!

Welcome 2025! 49er Update

After a busy and fun year of golf, the Fore Tee Niners are ready to tee off another great season!

Despite some rainy weather, our Best Ball game on Dec. 5 was a wonderful event. Congratulations to the winning team of Lynn Stroh, Anne Weisenberg, Juliet Fyffe, and Shannon Hagen, who took home the prize!

The weather didn’t dampen the holiday spirit during our party on Dec. 12. While a small but mighty group braved the cold and damp day to play, many joined for lunch afterward. We enjoyed festive caroling led by Melissa Krebill and celebrated a successful year with keepsake 2024 ball markers and golf towels for all.

This year’s top honors went to:

Most Pars: Shannon Hagen

Most Chip-ins: Christy Frank

Most Birdies: Christy Frank

Most Scores Under 50 & 60: Donna Aarons

We wrapped up 2024 with some stroke play and are already looking forward to another exciting year of golf in 2025.

If you’re interested in joining a fantastic group of nine-hole women golfers who focus on fun, socializing, and—of course—lunch, inquire at the Pro Shop. We’d love to see you out there!

Donna Aarons

JANUARY

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