Recently, I discovered an inspiring study that highlights the significant economic impact of private clubs in the United States.
Conducted by the esteemed Club Benchmarking, the Club Management Association of America (CMAA), and the National Club Association (NCA), this research highlights the vital role these establishments play in our communities.
Reynolds Lake Oconee‘s newest private golf club, Fenmoor Golf Club, located in Georgia, has prompted an inquiry into the performance of clubs in that region.
The findings from the study above are detailed below:
- In 2023, the 1,379 South Region private clubs generated an estimated $13.9 billion of revenue (43% of the industry revenue).
- The members of those clubs injected an estimated $2.1 billion of capital into the clubs in the form of Initiation Fees and Capital Dues/Assessments.
- The 1,379 private clubs employed 219,000 employees, generating a total payroll of $7.5 billion, estimated to be $6.3 billion in salaries and wages, and an additional $1.2 billion in payroll taxes and benefits.
- Average revenue per club: $10,079,768. This is the highest in comparison to other regions.
Today, there are 176 private golf clubs in the state of Georgia.
Now, I would like to share with you a summary of Reynolds Lake Oconee‘s newest private golf club development, along with its Steve Smyers-designed golf course.
Reynolds Lake Oconee: Fenmoor Golf Club
Fenmoor Golf Club’s golf course will be the 8th golf course at Reynolds Lake Oconee. Located in the northeastern section of the 12,000-acre community, the new golf course site encompasses a diverse range of landscapes at the headwaters of Lake Oconee.
This area is characterized by marshy peripheries, native grasses, and gently rolling hills.
The distinctive topography provides elevated tee boxes, undulating fairways, several water crossings, and multiple holes situated adjacent to the water’s edge.
The name “Fenmoor” signifies the prominence of water as a key element of the course.
In addition to Lake Oconee, the property features an intricate network of rivulets and streams stemming from Richland Creek, resulting in a dynamic landscape characterized by wooded wetlands, grassy fields, marshlands, and meadows.
The lake is visible from a significant portion of the course and notably impacts play on various holes, including the 9th green, which is strategically located adjacent to the water.
Fenmoor Golf Club will also include
- a specialized putting course,
- multiple short-game practice areas, and
- extensive training facilities designed to enhance skill development.
To enhance the unique golfing experience, Reynolds Lake Oconee (owned by MetLife) has enlisted the services of BLUR Workshop, a nationally acclaimed architecture and interior design firm, to conceptualize a new clubhouse.
This facility is designed to encompass
- a restaurant and bar,
- men’s and women’s locker rooms and lounges,
- terraces, and
- various communal gathering spaces.
Construction is officially underway at Fenmoor Golf Club, and I am thrilled to announce that it will be ready for play by Fall 2026.
Get ready for an incredible golfing experience!