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 MARCH THE TAP IN Short, quick news
Mar 31 is deadline for last names starting with A-L
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.
Upcoming Member Events & Meetings
Mar 6: Charity Bridge
Mar 9: Daylight Savings Time begins
Mar 12: Trivia Night - “Are You Smarter Than A First Grader?”
Mar 15: Men’s 3-Man Scramble Tournament
Mar 15: Pickleball Spring Classic
Mar 17: SPRING AERATION BEGINS
Mar 19: Membership Committee Meeting
Mar 19: Wine Dinner
Mar 20: House & Social Committee Meeting
Mar 22: Tennis St Paddy’s Day Round Robin
Mar 25-28: Tennis Jr Spring Camp
Mar 25: Board of Directors Meeting
Mar 29: Spring Fling
Mar 30: Wedding Fair
BY RYAN BILL GENERAL MANAGER
CELEBRATING WOMEN IN GOLF
Honoring the Legacy & Looking Ahead
March is Women’s History Month, a time to reflect on the achievements of women who have shaped industries, broken barriers, and paved the way for future generations. Golf is no exception.
At Woodbridge Golf & Country Club, we take pride in fostering a welcoming environment for women in golf. Whether through our thriving women’s leagues, beginner-friendly clinics, or competitive tournaments, we support and celebrate the growth of the game for all players.
From Babe Didrikson Zaharias, who dominated the sport in the 1940s, to modern champions like Annika Sörenstam and Nelly Korda, women have long played a pivotal role in advancing the game. Their dedication, skill, and passion continue to inspire golfers at all levels.
At Woodbridge Golf & Country Club, we take pride in fostering a welcoming environment for women in golf. Whether through our thriving women’s leagues, beginner-friendly clinics, or competitive tournaments, we support and celebrate the growth of the game for all players.
This month, we encourage our members to recognize and honor the women who have shaped their own golf journey—whether it’s a mentor, a playing partner, or even a trailblazing professional who’s inspired you.
Let’s continue building a legacy where every golfer—regardless of gender—feels empowered to pick up a club, take on the course, and enjoy the game we all love.
See you on the course!
Make the Most of March
BY KRISTINE ROBERSON MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR
Legacy Program ends this month, plus a new way to earn credit on your statement!
Spring is in the air, and there’s no better time to take advantage of two incredible opportunities at Woodbridge Golf & Country Club—before they’re gone! Whether you’re looking to extend your family’s legacy at the Club or help a friend celebrate their big day in the perfect setting, we have something for you.
Last Chance for Our Legacy Program
March marks the final month of our annual Legacy Program, and you won’t want to miss out! This exclusive offer allows relatives of current members to join the Club with a $0 initiation fee when they commit to a two-year membership. It’s the perfect opportunity to bring your loved ones into the Woodbridge family and share the lifestyle you love.
But that’s not all—current members can also upgrade their memberships at no additional cost during this special promotion. If you’ve been considering a move to a higher membership level, now is the time! This offer disappears at the end of the month, so don’t wait.
For more details or to take advantage of the Legacy Program, contact me today.
Earn a $250 Credit for Wedding Referrals
Woodbridge is a stunning venue for weddings, and we need your help spreading the word! If you refer a bride and groom who book a wedding of at least 50 guests, you’ll receive a $250 statement credit as a thank-you. Not only will they get a beautiful setting and impeccable service, but you’ll also be rewarded for sharing the Club with them.
More weddings, private events, and tournament bookings directly help keep member dues low by infusing much-needed funds into the Club. When you refer someone to host their special event at Woodbridge, you’re not only introducing them to a premier venue—you’re also helping to sustain and enhance the member experience for everyone.
Help Us Promote Our Wedding Fair – March 30
To showcase all that Woodbridge has to offer for weddings, we’re hosting a Wedding Fair on Sun, March 30. This is a fantastic opportunity for newly-engaged couples to tour the Club, envision their big day, and meet vendors who can bring their dream wedding to life.
If you know someone who is planning a wedding, invite them to come see firsthand why Woodbridge is the perfect place to say “I do.” For more information about our wedding offerings or to RSVP for the Wedding Fair, contact our Melissa Becerra in the Food & Beverage Department.
March is full of opportunities—don’t miss your chance to take advantage of these exclusive offers before the month ends!
FULL GOLF: 462
LIMITED GOLF: 57
NON GOLF: 258
OF 2/28/25
TOTAL: 777
We are excited to introduce the newest members of Woodbridge Golf & Country Club! Please join us in giving them a warm welcome.
Blair and Nichole Unterseher
Sponsor: Josh Nobriga (Young Professional) Blair and Nichole bring a love of sports and socializing to the Club. Blair owns Play It Again Sports in Stockton, and Nichole is a special education teacher in Elk Grove. Former members of Brookside, the couple has been married for two years and enjoys golf, pickleball, and networking. They look forward to meeting fellow members and becoming part of the Woodbridge community.
Jane Henderson-Loney
Sponsor: Judy Hayes (Sports) Jane is a corporate trainer and professor of human resources. An active member of the Lodi Republican Women’s group, she enjoys community service and giving back. She is eager to spend time with friends and get involved in Club activities.
Lynn Crook
Sponsor: Joe Handel
(Dining) Lynn has a deep-rooted connection to the Club—her parents were charter members, and she has fond memories of growing up here. Having recently returned to Lodi, she is excited to reconnect with family, friends, and the Woodbridge community.
Lora and Jerry Herrin
Sponsor: Bart Robertson
(Full Golf ) Sports enthusiasts at heart, the Herrins were deeply involved in their children’s athletics. Lora recently retired from her career as a nurse at Dameron Hospital, while Jerry is semi-retired as a repairman. They are looking forward to golfing and spending quality time with family and friends at the Club.
Jack and Lucy Zech
Sponsor: William Zech
(Sports) Local business owners, Jack and Lucy are excited to become part of the Woodbridge community. Jack owns Sabbatical Distillery, and Lucy is a partner at JMJ Seekers in Roseville. With a growing family, including their daughter Charlotte, they are looking forward to playing tennis, using the fitness center, and making lasting memories at the Club.
Blake Smallie
Sponsor: Zach Johnson (Young Professional) Blake is the owner of Calidad Services in Stockton and has a strong passion for sports, having played collegiate football. He serves on the board of directors for the San Joaquin County Builders Exchange and enjoys giving back to the community. He looks forward to meeting fellow members and becoming part of the Woodbridge network.
Jeff and Carol Carr
Sponsor: Membership Committee (Full Golf) New to the area from Colorado, the Carrs are eager to settle into the Woodbridge community. Jeff is the CEO of Precog, and Carol is vice president of JP Morgan Chase in Sacramento. They enjoy wine, pickleball, and golf and are looking forward to meeting new people and building friendships at the Club.
Molly and Jay Bogacs
Sponsor: Danielle Spinella (Sports) Lodi residents Molly and Jay, along with their two boys, are excited to become part of the Club. Molly is a clinical pharmacist at Centene, and Jay works for the USDA. The family looks forward to spending quality time together, getting their sons involved in camps and activities, and enjoying the Club’s social events with friends and family.
Please take a moment to welcome our newest members when you see them around the Club. We are thrilled to have them join our community!
GOLF UPDATE
BY JOHN HUGHES, PGA HEAD GOLF PROFESSIONAL
GOLF SHOP NEWS
More on Your Game
Swing Smoothly
Trying to hit shots at 100% normally doesn’t end with good results. Plan to swing 85%. You will be surprised how your shots are more consistent and you likely will hit it the same distance, or even farther.
The Longer Club
When you find yourself at a distance between clubs, take the longer one. You will naturally swing easier (see above), and you won’t end up short as often.
Invite Faster Players Through
Even if your pace is good, if there are faster players waiting behind you, invite them through! However, if there isn’t space ahead for them that isn’t an option.
And…Remember to Take Care of the Golf Course
Fix balls marks, fill divots, rake bunkers, keep carts at least 40 feet away from greens.
Upcoming Club-Fitting Days at Woodbridge
Sat, Mar 22: Callaway Fri, Mar 7: Mizuno Sat, Mar 9: Titleist Sun, Apr 13: TaylorMade
Golf Rules
Last Month’s Question –
A player strikes their ball from a bunker onto the next teeing area. Another player, who is making a practice swing, accidentally strikes the moving ball. The ball comes to rest in a yellow penalty area. What is the ruling?
Answer –
The player must play the ball as it lies in the yellow penalty area or take relief under the penalty area relief Rule (17.1d). Explanation: Rule 11.1b.
This Month’s Question –
A player makes a stroke at their ball that lies in a greenside bunker. The ball comes to rest over the green and out of bounds. The player is now required to take stroke-and-distance relief by dropping a ball in the bunker. Before playing the next stroke, the player smooths the sand in the bunker in caring for the course. What’s the ruling?
BY LOU SILVEIRA GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENT
TIME FOR SPRING AERATION
As we approach the heart of the golf season, I want to take a moment to discuss an essential part of our agronomic program—spring aeration
While we understand that course disruptions can be an inconvenience, this process is a critical step in maintaining the long-term health and playability of our greens, fairways, and tees.
Why Do We Aerate?
Over time, constant foot traffic and rolling equipment compact the soil, limiting the movement of air, water, and nutrients to the roots. This compaction can lead to weaker turf, reduced drainage, and an overall decline in course conditions. Aeration relieves this compaction by creating channels in the soil, allowing for deeper root growth and improved oxygen exchange.
The Benefits of Aeration
1. Stronger, Healthier Turf – Aeration promotes deeper root systems, which lead to more resilient and consistent playing surfaces.
2. Improved Drainage – By breaking up compacted soil, water moves more efficiently, reducing puddling and soft spots.
3. Better Nutrient Absorption – Fertilizers and soil amendments can penetrate more effectively, enhancing overall turf health.
4. Thatch Control – Removing excess thatch prevents disease outbreaks and allows for firmer, smoother playing conditions.
What to Expect
This spring, we will be performing aeration on the greens, fairways, and tees. While there will be some temporary
disruption, our team will work diligently to ensure the course heals as quickly as possible. With the help of warmer temperatures, proper topdressing, and post-aeration care, playing conditions will improve rapidly.
We appreciate your patience and understanding as we perform this necessary maintenance. Investing in aeration now ensures that our course remains in peak condition for the months ahead. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Aeration Timing
One note about this season’s aeration is that all greens will be aerfied consecutively on Mon, Mar 17 and Tues, Mar 18. During these days all three nines will be closed. The Vineyard/Lake will reopen on Wed, Mar 19. The River will remain closed for the remainder of the week to complete tee & fairway aeration. Please see the following schedule for details.
• Mar 17-18: Vineyard/River/Lake Closed
• Mar 19-23: River Closed
• Mar 24-30: Vineyard Closed
• Mar 31- Apr 6: Lake Closed
Aeration of the greens all at once will allow for more consistent playing conditions throughout your rounds following the coring of the greens.
Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to another fantastic spring at Woodbridge.
See you on the course!
special! scallops w/black pudding
Asian noodle prime rib sandwich
fried green beans
1/2# waygu burger
Served Thursdays&Fridays5-8pm
Sweet & Spicy Edamame 10
Fried Green Bean hoisin, sesame seed 12
Fried Calamari sweet chili sauce on side, roasted red pepper 16
Steamed Mussels garlic, white wine, crostinis 17
S O U P S & S A L A D S
Friday Chowder New England or Manhattan CUP 7.50 BOWL 10.50
House romaine, mixed greens, shredded carrot, radish, tomato, choice of dressing 15 SMALL 7
Caesar romaine, parmesan, croutons, house-made caesar dressing 16 SMALL 9
Cobb Salad turkey, egg, avocado, blue cheese crumbles, bacon, tomato, house-made blue cheese dressing 17
Asian Noodle Salad noodle, pickled vegetable, romaine, cabbage, carrot, peanut butter dressing 16 with Chicken 20 or with Shrimp 22
Antipasto Salad mor tadella, salami, mozzarella, cheddar peppercinni, ar tichoke hear t, housemade Italian viniagrette 18
M A I N S
Half Pound American Waygu Burger garlic aioli, choice of cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, brioche bun. Choice of side. 24
March’s Tip of the Month The Importance of Understanding Different Short Game Techniques
If you’ve taken a lesson with me, especially if we’ve worked on parts of the game beyond the full swing or spent time on the golf course, you’ve probably heard me mention how there are no “position players” in golf. What I mean by that is, unlike in some sports, there isn’t a designated “driver” of the ball, or a player who focuses exclusively on irons, short game, or putting. In fact, I would argue that golf demands more diverse skills than any other sport.
Because of this, players often excel in one aspect of the game while struggling in others. The key question is: Why? Why can my natural swing make full shots feel effortless, but I struggle with putting or have the "yips" around the greens? Why do developing junior golfers tend to blade bunker shots? Why do some excellent drivers of the ball have trouble with simple bumpand-run chips?
The short answer is that these shots require different movements and sequences, all beginning with how you set up before you even swing. Until your body and setup align with the goals of the shot, success will be hard to achieve.
Full Swing vs. Short Game: A Key Difference
Let’s address a common misconception right away. It’s often said that chips and pitches are “miniature full swings,” but this couldn’t be further from the truth. This notion can be quite misleading and counterproductive when it comes to playing effective shots around the greens.
In a full swing, the goal is to accelerate the ball. This is achieved through what James Sieckmann calls a Power Sequence, where the body starts from a position of strength, presses into the ground, and transfers force into the club, then into the ball. Simply put, a full swing is about using the body to generate speed.
In contrast, the short game’s goal is to slow the ball down. In a short game sequence (which Sieckmann calls a Finesse Sequence), the club, not the body, leads the downswing. The body then acts as a stabilizing force. The short game is about finesse and touch, not power.
Setup for the Full Swing vs. Short Game
• Power Setup (Full Swing): Feet wide, knees flexed, body engaged.
Why the “Power Setup” Doesn’t Work for Short Shots
A common mistake in short game play is using the “Power Setup” for shots that require delicate control, like short chips that only need to carry a few feet. This creates a mismatch between the body’s setup and the goals of the shot. To highlight this, Parker McLaughlin, a tour short game coach (also known as Short Game Chef on Instagram), often gives struggling students a simple task: hit the ball just one yard using a 5-iron. Most players will instinctively hit it much farther, demonstrating how the wrong setup can lead to confusion. That’s where the first shot I want to talk about comes in: the basic chip or “bump ‘n run.”
The Basic Chip (Bump ‘n Run)
• Goal: Slow the ball down (finesse sequence)
• Carry Distance: Under 10 yards
• Clubs Used: Any club, but a higher-lofted iron is common (Raymond Floyd famously used a 3-iron for chips)
• Stance: Narrow, feet together
• Ball Position: Back of stance
• Posture: Tall, spine tilted toward the target
• Length of Motion: Small, like a putt with minimal wrist hinge
The Basic Pitch
The basic pitch is another short game shot worth discussing. The main difference between a chip and a pitch is that a chip rolls more than it carries, while a pitch carries more than it rolls. Because of this, a pitch requires more loft and a higher trajectory, which means more power in the setup. Still, a pitch is a finesse shot because you need to control the ball’s speed.
• Goal: Slow the ball down (finesse sequence)
• Carry Distance: 10-40 yards (for most adult players)
• Clubs Used: Wedges (unless playing on a large course or links course, where short irons might be used)
• Stance: Slightly wider than the chip stance, but still narrower than shoulder-width
• Ball Position: Varies depending on desired height or trajectory
• Posture: Tall, spine tilted, slightly more ground engagement
• Length of Motion: Between hip and shoulder height, with minimal to moderate wrist hinge
Diagnosing Your Short Game Struggles
Distance Wedges: A Transition Between Short Game and Full Swing
Now, let’s talk about Distance Wedges. These shots are unique because, while they fall into the “short game” category, they require a power sequence— just like a full swing. The key is that, for Distance Wedges, the goal is to accelerate the ball.
• Goal: Speed the ball up (power sequence)
• Carry Distance: 50-100 yards (depending on the player’s swing and club choice)
• Length of Motion: From a small backswing to left arm parallel with the ground or a full swing motion
Let me share a quick example of a student who struggled in one area of the short game despite excelling in another. This player was excellent at pitching the ball but had trouble with bump ‘n runs and Distance Wedges. His problem was that his pitching technique involved a larger swing, but when it came to smaller chips, his motion was too big. On the other hand, when attempting Distance Wedges (which require a power sequence), his finesse sequence caused him to mis-hit or underhit the ball. He was stuck in the middle. Understanding that Distance Wedges require more power (even though they’re part of the short game) is crucial for success.
Final Thoughts
If you find yourself excelling in one part of your short game but struggling in another, use this article as a diagnostic tool! Hopefully, it helps you understand some of the misconceptions around short game techniques and guides you toward a more effective approach to each shot. If you need additional help troubleshooting your game, either Teresa or I would be happy to work with you on refining your technique. We’re looking forward to seeing you out on the course, knocking down flagsticks and chipping in!
BY TARIQ GLENN FITNESS CENTER COORDINATOR
NOLAN MONTGOMERY MEET
Meet 8 year old Nolan Montgomery, our Player of the Month! This energetic second grader from St. Peter School loves math and spends his recess playing football and kickball with friends.
Nolan’s pre-tennis snack of choice? Chips and guac, of course! On the court, he’s all about forehands and enjoys the challenge when Coach Haley hits the ball fast. His favorite part? Picking out candy after his lessons!
Tennis is a family affair for Nolan, who loves playing with his little brother Jack. He’s already looking forward to the day their baby brother Cal can join in the fun. Keep it up, Nolan—you’re a star!
JR TENNIS PLAYER OF THE MONTH
Fitness ChallengeKeep Going!
MARCH AT THE SPORTS COMPLEX
Spring is in the air, and there's no better time to stay active and engaged at the Club! Whether you're taking on the Fitness Challenge, joining a pickleball or tennis event, or taking advantage of our St. Paddy’s Day sale, there’s something for everyone this month.
Fitness Challenge: Keep Pushing! We're heading into the final weeks of our Fitness Challenge, and now’s the time to rack up those bonus punches! Here’s how you can earn extra rewards:
Week 3: Work out for 45 minutes to earn 3 bonus punches
Week 4: Attend a fitness class and participate in a pickleball event to earn 4 bonus punches
Week 5: Complete a mile and attend a tennis event to earn 5 bonus punches
Week 6: Attend five fitness classes to earn 6 bonus punches
Stay consistent, stay strong, and don’t miss your chance to win!
St. Paddy’s Day Sale – Save 10%! "Get Fit, Feel Lucky!"
Looking for new fitness gear? Now’s your lucky chance! On Mar 17, enjoy 10% off all fitness merchandise at the Fitness Center. Whether you're refreshing your workout wardrobe or grabbing some essentials, don’t miss this rare four-leaf-clover deal!
Pickleball Spring Classic
Get ready to hit the courts for our Pickleball Spring Classic!
• Sat, Mar 15
• $15 per player
• Sign-up at the Fitness Center
St. Patty’s Day Tennis Round Robin
Join the fun with our festive St. Patty’s Day Round Robin!
• Sat, Mar 22
• $15 per player
• Sign-up at the Fitness Center
Pool Update
Good news! The pool is now open and back to its normal temperature. Thank you for your patience while we made necessary adjustments!
Let’s make March a month of movement, motivation, and fun! See you at the Club.
BY KIM DANGELO & LAURA REEVES 18-HOLE LADIES CO-CAPTAINS
WOMEN’S GOLF UPDATE
February Fun with Golf
Mother Nature hasn’t been kind this month, forcing us to cancel our first week of play. Fortunately, a break in the weather allowed us to enjoy our Valentine’s Party! Hosts Sondra Huff and Diane Gardemeyer once again put on a spectacular event. Kathie Holtzapple and Pam Hughes won for closest to the pin.
Event Winners:
1st place: Betty Sacher, Pam Hughes, Chris Phelps
2nd place: Donna Brundy, Sandi Small, Linda Fyffe
3rd place: Joy Sasaki, Marlene Weigum, Cynthia Neely
Meanwhile, some of our members headed to Mexico for the annual Woodbridge golf trip. A special congratulations to Sharon Dangling, who came home with a hole-in-one! Linda Fyffe also returned with a newfound love for alligators.
Looking ahead, Kim D’Angelo and Laura Reeves will be chairing the 2025 Invitational, scheduled for Sept. 2–4. More details will be shared in the coming months.
If you’re interested in playing with the 18-Hole Ladies, reach out to our membership chair, Beth Grady, or let the Golf Shop know.
Hope to see you on the course!
BY DONNA AARONS FORE-TEE NINERS 2024 CAPTAIN
49er Update
Despite getting rained out two weeks in a row, February was still a great month for golf!
Our Valentine’s Party was well attended, and our hostesses, Jennie Fuller and Shannon Hagen, organized a fantastic indoor putting contest. Congratulations to our big winners: Barb Parejo, Trudy MacLeod, Rosemary Kellar, and Jackie Katzakian
On Feb 20, our two-person alternate shot event saw fierce competition, with the following winners:
During stroke play on Feb 27, Jennie Fuller secured 1st place, followed by Christy Frank in 2nd, Shannon Hagen in 3rd, and Jackie Katzakian in 4th.
We’re looking forward to improving weather and our March events, including our St. Patrick’s Day Party on Mar 13 and our first Guest Day of the year on Mar 27.
If you enjoy golf in a relaxed and social environment, consider joining the Fore Tee Niners! We play fun games, mix in a little stroke play, and, of course, enjoy plenty of socializing and lunch.
Hope to see you out on the course!
Donna
MARCH
7am-11:30am LUNCH MENU 11am-5pm BAR MENU 3-7pm Tennis Drop In 9:30am TENNIS ROUND ROBIN Zumba 9:30am Barre 10:45am RIVER SPRING AERATION 23 BREAKFAST 7am-11:30am LUNCH
AERATION 25 LUNCH MENU 11am-5pm / BAR MENU 3-7pm Pilates 8:30am 18-Hole Ladies 9am Jr Tennis Spring Camp Strength Training 5pm Board of Directors Meeting 5:30pm Stretch & Flex 6:15pm VINEYARD
