Woodbridge Golf & Country Club Announces Course Enhancement Projects

(Woodbridge, Calif.) — Woodbridge Golf & Country Club in Woodbridge, Calif. will initiate a series of significant improvements to its River Nine course beginning on August 17, including a complete bunker renovation, enhancements to green surrounds, restroom upgrades, and cart path repairs. The River Nine course is expected to be closed for approximately six weeks while renovations take place, reopening in early October. The Vineyard and Lake Nines will remain open during this period, ensuring uninterrupted play for members and guests.

“This refresh project underscores the club’s commitment to providing an exceptional golf experience for our members and guests,” said Woodbridge Golf & Country Club General Manager Ryan Bill. “These enhancements are designed to elevate playing conditions while supporting sustainable, year-round playability of the golf course.”

The bunker renovation aims to improve drainage, sand quality, and bunker shaping, thereby enhancing playability while preserving the course’s distinct character. Concurrently, targeted work around select greens will promote consistent turf health and better drainage, facilitating improved accessibility from surrounding areas.

In addition to course enhancements, the River Nine restroom facilities are also being upgraded to offer a more comfortable experience. Identified cart paths will also be addressed and repaired to ensure safe and smooth mobility throughout the course.

Woodbridge Golf & Country Club is a private facility located just outside of Sacramento. Troon Privé, the private club operating division of Troon, manages the golf and club operations, food & beverage, golf course agronomy, and membership marketing. For more information on Woodbridge Golf & Country Club, visit www.woodbridgegcc.com.

GHOST GOLF and PAYNTR Golf Unveil the Reaper SL Collaboration

The performance-driven golf shoe launches August 14

GHOST GOLF and PAYNTR Golf have joined forces to introduce the GHOST GOLF Reaper SL by PAYNTR Golf, uniting performance-first innovation with a bold, design-led perspective for golfers who demand more on the course and beyond.

The partnership brings together two brands with a shared ambition to push golf forward. PAYNTR Golf contributes its performance-first approach to footwear, using purpose-driven technology to help golfers feel supported, stable and connected to the ground. GHOST GOLF brings a distinct design perspective rooted in functionality, modern golf culture and confident self-expression.

“PAYNTR Golf has built an incredible performance platform, and for us, this collaboration was about bringing the Ghost Golf identity to it,” said Andy Nala, CEO & Founder, GHOST GOLF. “We focused on the styling, the details, and four colorways that tie directly back to our core palette and golf bag collection. We wanted golfers to be able to build a complete look without sacrificing performance, and the Reaper SL delivers exactly that.”

Working closely throughout the design process, the two teams developed the Reaper SL to reflect the identities of both brands. Every element from the performance platform and material selection to the silhouette and final visual details was considered through the lens of the modern golfer. The result is a shoe engineered for the demands of the course and designed to make an impact beyond it.

“Every collaboration we’ve pursued has played an important role in shaping how we think about product and partnerships,” said Mike Forsey, Co-founder and President of PAYNTR Golf. “What makes this project especially meaningful is the way it brings our two communities together. GHOST GOLF has built a passionate following around bold design and modern golf culture, while PAYNTR golfers look to us for performance innovation. The Reaper SL gives fans of both brands something authentic to connect around. Together, we created a product that reflects the values they share.”

The Reaper SL pairs PAYNTR GOLF’s performance technology with GHOST GOLF’s unmistakable aesthetic. Its construction is designed to deliver comfort, propulsion, stability, energy return and reliable traction throughout the round, while its styling gives golfers the confidence to express their individuality through GHOST GOLF’s brand ethos.

Performance features include:
- CLARINO Trivela microfiber upper
- WATERPROOF+ breathable membrane with sealed bottom gasket
- ARIAPRENE tongue and bootie for secure foot lockdown
- PMXNITROGEN+ midsole for energy return and support
- ORTHOLITE footbed for lasting cushioning and comfort
- PMXSpeed PLT propulsion plate
- TPU outsole with three-dimensional traction

The Reaper SL represents a shared vision for the future of golf, one in which technical performance and personal style work together without compromise. This shoe is made for golfers who approach every round with purpose, care deeply about the equipment they use, and want their footwear to reflect how they play and who they are.

“We’ve been fortunate to work on collaborations that have each contributed something important to PAYNTR Golf’s evolution,” said Michael Glancy, Co-Founder and Creative Director of PAYNTR Golf. “What made this process with GHOST GOLF distinctive was how quickly an initial conversation became a hands-on creative partnership. Their perspective pushed us to consider every material, detail, and finish through an authentic lens, while our design teams translated that creative energy into a product that remained uncompromising in its performance and visual aethetic. Seeing that shared vision progress from sketch to launch has been incredibly rewarding.”

University of Illinois Chicago Evans Scholar Honored for Academic, Leadership Achievement

(GLENVIEW, IL) – Bridget Danaher, a graduate from the University of Illinois Chicago, was named the Evans Scholars Program’s most outstanding student at the annual Evans Scholars Summer Leadership Summit on Saturday, July 18, in Chicago, Illinois. 

Danaher was one of two students honored as the 2026 Evans Scholar of the Year, the most prestigious title a student can earn within the Evans Scholars Program; Saul Galvan, a graduate from the University of Oregon, was also recognized for his leadership and academic excellence.

Danaher is from Burbank, Illinois, and caddied at The Beverly Country Club in Chicago. She graduated from the University of Illinois Chicago with a degree in computer science and a 3.9 GPA, earning Dean’s List honors all eight semesters. Danaher served as a three-term vice president of New Scholars of the UIC Evans Scholars chapter and worked for two years as a data structures teaching assistant. Danaher will begin her career at United Airlines as part of its Early Career Digital Leadership Program.

She says, “It is an incredible honor to be named Evans Scholar of the Year. Serving as vice president of New Scholars for three terms was an incredible passion of mine – I had the blessing of mentoring almost the entire chapter by the time I graduated, and I have my fellow UIC Scholars to thank for their trust in me. The Evans Scholarship has made the dreams of so many deserving Scholars possible.”

“We’re incredibly proud of how Bridget and Saul have represented the Evans Scholars Program,” said WGA President and CEO John Kazckowski. “They displayed impressive academics and outstanding leadership within their Scholarship chapters and communities, and we look forward to supporting them in their future endeavors.” 

Evans Scholars are caddies who have earned a full, four-year tuition and housing grant based on their strong caddie record, excellent academics, financial need and outstanding character. The Evans Scholars Program has been run by the Western Golf Association since its founding in 1930. In the 2025-26 academic year, a record 1,260 caddies were enrolled at 27 partner universities nationwide as Evans Scholars, and more than 12,870 caddies have graduated since the program began.

For more information, visit wgaesf.org.

Treat Yourself to a BIG MAX Bag this Labor Day

Take advantage of a fantastic offer on BIG MAX’s best-selling golf bag this Labor day. The European market leader in golf bags and push carts is offering U.S. golfers $40 off the Dri Lite Hybrid Plus from September 3-8.

The water-resistant Dri Lite Hybrid Plus offers the very best for golfers that like to both walk and ride. Featuring a flat, footless hybrid base and a clever positioning of the stand mechanism, the Hybrid Plus connects squarely with a cart or push cart with no twisting. But pick the bag up and it transforms into practical carry bag with padded straps, air channel for breathability and light weight of just 5.5lbs. A 14 way divider, 7 spacious pockets including an oversized cooler, keeps all your gear in place, while features such as ergonomic grab handles and glove, umbrella and towel holder finish off the practical innovations. 

With five, eye-catching two tone colorways, the Dri Lite Hybrid Plus is a bag that looks great and performs whichever way you choose to play. And now at just $229 from September 3-8, there’s never been a better chance to enjoy this award winning design.

Check out these and many more fantastic products at https://us.bigmaxgolf.com/ 

Evnroll Introduces EZPZ Reverse Torque Putter, Delivering a New Approach to Face Stability and Accuracy

(CARLSBAD, Calif.) – As zero-torque putters continue to influence the premium putter category, Evnroll is introducing a new alternative…one designed to control torque rather than eliminate it.

The award-winning putter manufacturer today announced the EZPZ Reverse Torque Putter, featuring patent-pending Reverse Torque Technology. Instead of reducing torque by aligning the shaft axis through or near the putter head’s center of gravity, the EZPZ strategically redistributes mass to naturally slow face rotation through impact while preserving the traditional setup, offset, feel, and stroke preferred by the vast majority of golfers.

For many golfers, transitioning to a zero-torque putter can require adjustments to alignment, setup, and stroke mechanics. The EZPZ was engineered for players who want the visual confidence and natural motion of a conventional putter while gaining greater stability and consistency.

“Putter design isn’t just about creating different head shapes. It’s about helping golfers make more putts,” said Guerin Rife, founder and chief designer of Evnroll. “Thirty-five years ago, I invented the cavity-back mallet, and later pioneered face groove technology in putters. Zero Torque has been in the spotlight and has quickly been embraced by the industry.  While reducing torque is a good thing, I believe “reversing torque” is even better. Reverse Torque allows golfers to keep the familiar look and setup of a traditional putter while naturally slowing face rotation through impact. The difference is something golfers can feel immediately.”

EZPZ’s patent-pending inward-leaning hosel positions the shaft slightly toe-ward of the putter’s center of mass, placing approximately 60% of the head’s mass below the shaft axis on the heel side. This heel-down balance increases stability by creating greater heel momentum, which naturally slows face rotation throughout the stroke.

Reverse Torque Technology Benefits 

Slower Face Rotation – Naturally slows the rate of face rotation throughout the stroke, giving golfers more time to return the face square at impact.

Expanded Square Zone – Keeps the putter face square to the target line for up to 2X longer than a traditional putter.

Natural Arc Compatibility – Complements the slight arc used by the majority of golfers while preserving the familiar setup and offset of a traditional putter.

Forgiving Performance – Combines Reverse Torque Technology with a high-MOI design to slow face rotation while increasing resistance to twisting on off-center strikes.

The EZPZ also incorporates Evnroll’s patented SweetFace 2.0 Technology, engineered to equalize energy transfer across the face for exceptional distance control and roll consistency, even on off-center strikes.

Every EZPZ comes standard with the UST Mamiya ALL-IN premium multi-material putter shaft, combining graphite’s vibration-dampening benefits with the consistency and stability golfers expect from steel.

The EZPZ Reverse Torque Putter will be available beginning August 15, 2026, in right-hand models measuring 33″, 34″, 35″, and 38″ Tour Spec, featuring the Evnroll Tour Tac Pistol Grip or 17-inch Tour Spec Grip on the 38-inch model. Left-hand models will be available in Winter 2026. MSRP: $449

For more information, visit www.evnroll.com. 

Black Clover USA and Topgolf Announce 5-Year Marketing, Retail and Apparel Sponsorship Program

Black Clover's "Live Lucky" brand becomes Topgolf's National Uniform Partner and the first partner to join Topgolf's New Media Networks Platform, while supporting Topgolf's community initiatives

(DALLAS, TX) – Sports and entertainment leader, Topgolf announced a five-year partnership with Black Clover USA, the premium lifestyle brand known for its "Live Lucky" headwear and apparel. The partnership will reach nearly 40 million guests annually across all 102 Topgolf-owned and operated venues in the United States. Beginning this summer, Black Clover will serve as Topgolf's national uniform partner and an official retail partner, bringing its distinctive style to Topgolf team members and guests across the country.  

As a premium lifestyle brand with deep credibility in the golf community, Black Clover brings an audience and cultural authority that amplifies Topgolf's positioning as the gateway to modern golf, making it an ideal partner to elevate the brand across Topgolf's entire venue network. Under the agreement, Black Clover will supply:
- Employee uniforms nationwide
- Co-branded hats with dedicated retail racks at each venue
- Branded tees and polos exclusive to Topgolf players
- Golf headcovers and gloves from CMC Design, a Black Clover Enterprises brand

The partnership extends into Topgolf Media Networks, the company's newly launched sponsorship, media and licensing division, weaving Black Clover into email campaigns, social content, and in-venue marketing across Topgolf's 28,000+ digital screens nationwide.

As part of the partnership, Black Clover will serve as Presenting Partner of a month-long Topgolf game sweepstakes, featuring Black Clover branding integrated into the game experience, $20,000 in prize value, and promotion across Topgolf's email and in-venue digital screens.

"The partnership with Black Clover is about expanding Topgolf's cultural relevance and deepening how we connect with our community," said Rodney Ferrell, Vice President, Partnerships, Media & Licensing at Topgolf. "Black Clover's Live Lucky philosophy aligns perfectly with our mission to give players the best experience in sports and entertainment. By weaving Black Clover into every venue, from uniforms to retail experiences, we're creating a cohesive brand experience that resonates with our guests and reinforces what makes Topgolf special."

As part of the partnership, Black Clover and Topgolf will support Make-A-Wish, Special Olympics and other community organizations through in-venue campaigns and activations, reaching millions of guests nationwide. Black Clover will also supply 10,000 co-branded hats for a national giveaway tied to a charitable initiative with one of Topgolf's charity partners.

"Black Clover has always been about creating products people love for how they look and feel, and for what the brand represents," said Steve Lichtie, CEO of Black Clover. "Partnering with Topgolf gives us an incredible opportunity to introduce Black Clover to millions of new guests and help more people discover what it means to 'Live Lucky.'"

The agreement runs through May 31, 2031, with Black Clover hats and apparel rolling out at Topgolf venues nationwide starting this summer, available both in-venue and online at blackcloverusa.com.

Fall Brings Prime Golf Season to North Carolina's Brunswick Islands

Rivers Edge

(BRUNSWICK ISLANDS, N.C.) – While summer's end signals the close of golf season for many players, it marks the start of peak season in North Carolina's Brunswick Islands, one of the Southeast's most underrated fall golf destinations.

With daytime temperatures typically ranging from the upper 60s into the mid 70s in October, lower humidity and more than 20 layouts in the area, autumn is the ideal time to enjoy the Brunswick Islands along North Carolina’s southeast coast.

The area's collection of acclaimed courses includes Rivers Edge, an Arnold Palmer design that provides a stunning finish along the Shallotte River. Thistle Golf Club combines Scottish-inspired architecture with immaculate conditioning and first-class service. Oyster Bay Golf Links remains one of Dan Maples' signature designs, winding along tidal marshes and through live oak trees, while Sea Trail Golf Resort’s trio of courses - the Byrd, Jones and Maples layouts - and onsite accommodations provide visitors with the convenience of a full-service resort.

Additional favorites include four courses at Ocean Ridge Plantation - Leopard's Chase, Tiger's Eye, Panther's Run, Lion's Paw - The Pearl Golf Links, Lockwood Folly Country Club, Meadowlands Golf Club, Sandpiper Bay Golf Club and Crow Creek Golf Club, among many others, creating endless possibilities for group leaders.

"Fall showcases everything that makes golf in the Brunswick Islands special," said John Sneed, executive director of Brunswick County Tourism Development Authority. "The weather is idyllic, and the courses are in outstanding condition, allowing golfers to enjoy a great trip in a setting that is as relaxing as it is beautiful."

The destination's appeal extends well beyond the course. Visitors can spend afternoons exploring the waterfront communities of Southport, Calabash and Shallotte, enjoy fresh local seafood, stroll uncrowded beaches, or relax with sunset views along 45 miles of coastline after finishing their rounds. 

Just as appealing is the destination's value. Numerous golf resorts and package providers offer stay-and-play experiences that combine golf with villas, condominiums and resort accommodations, making it easy for groups to build multi-day trips. Sea Trail Golf Resort, for example, allows guests to stay, play and dine entirely on property, while Brunswick Plantation offers onsite accommodations and customizable packages as well.

With ideal playing conditions, a variety of courses and the relaxed pace of a coastal destination, North Carolina's Brunswick Islands continues to establish itself as one of the Southeast's premier fall golf escapes.

For information on golf packages, accommodations and trip planning, visit NCBrunswick.com.