Southern Trace or ERCC

They told us the members did do that at southern and now it’s member owned starting July 1st. It will be managed by troon out of Arizona.

I think I saw y’all getting a tour at the pool today

I’m at Trace so probably biased but I grew up at ERCC so I like both and know them well.

ERCC is absolutely in better shape, however the layout is way better at Trace. Club Corp has slowly killed our course over the last 15 years but fortunately that all changes next month. We’ve got a great plan to get it back in top shape within the next 18 months by finally putting a few million back in the club. We hired a new super this week from Black Diamond near Tampa, which looks very impressive.

Practice facilities on site are probably a wash, but ERCC just bought David Toms’ 265 academy which is a very nice practice facility about a half mile down the road from them. It’s the preferred place in town to take lessons, but you don’t have to be a member to do so.

The pool areas are probably a wash but maybe more kids to play with (and also more crowded) at ERCC. Tennis is marginally better at ERCC as they have a designated deck and bar for tennis (though that’s in the long term plans at Trace). General dining is better at ST, except the food at ERCC is better for the specialty parties/events/holidays.

ERCC has a bit younger of a demographic and their member-guest is a huge party and a blast - way more fun than our member-guest. However, they don’t have as many organized games. At ST, there’s an after work 9-hole scramble every Wednesday and medal play with handicap every Thursday that is sponsored by the MGA - everyone throws in $20 for each and it’s all paid out. Also a great way to meet people if you’re new.

Both clubs have their regular games between members - easy to find them at ST - I’m in a couple of large groups on the Group Me/Crew apps and they play several games a week - the pro shop can get you in those, they’re open to everyone. I’m sure ERCC has similar groups too.

Welcome

I believe after looking at both we are going to join southern trace. My wife likes the amenities better and I’m excited to see what Troon is going to do to the course. I would love to hook up with you or some other members to play golf and meet people. Thank you again for answering my question!

Well its official. Love the layout of the course, I have played it twice so far. Not from the area so looking for some groups to join. Is the best way to meet other regulars through the wednesday nighters?

Yeah Wednesday and Thursday evenings are great ways to meet new players. Just call the pro shop in the afternoon and tell them you want in. Also ask them to put you in the Crew app group - they play every Friday afternoon, Saturday morning, and Sunday afternoon. $25-50 quota game, usually gets about 20 guys in. That game rarely fits my schedule but it’s a great, big group.

Ordinarily the pro shop is very helpful with that, but since the club transition is just a few days away, there’s some turnover in staff - So if you have any problems, shoot me an email at naturalbeam@yahoo.com.