Andy Staples, ASGCA (Staples Golf Design), has been chosen as the consulting course architect by the University Club of Milwaukee (formerly Tripoli Country Club). The University Club, site of the 1956-60 Miller Open and the 1971-72 Greater Milwaukee Open, plans to upgrade the private club built in 1921 by Thomas “Tom” Bendelow.
Planning has begun, and member outreach meetings have been scheduled, together with a series of property assessments. These developments will allow the Club to begin planning for important capital improvement projects to be phased in over a period of years. Plans also call for a new practice facility that will include multiple short game areas, wedge range, a short course, and an indoor “learning center.” The course’s original Bendelow-design will play a significant role in the overall vision of the final Master Plan.
“The University Club has a wonderful piece of land, and great documentation of the original course,” says Staples, a Wisconsin native, who grew up playing the course as a child. “Our plan will be to engage in dialogue with the members, and route a path that best fits their needs. The course still has many of the classic Bendelow features, including 16 original greens, they just need to be showcased in better, more sustainable ways.”
“This is an exciting time for us here at the University Club,” says General Manager Greg Dick, PGA. “The timing for this project couldn’t be better, and we’re looking forward to building upon our momentum as the premier private club in the greater Milwaukee area. Andy’s enthusiasm for this property and his vision for the course fit perfectly into our long-range goals as a Club.”
To see the plan through, Staples will utilize the Club’s long-time superintendent, Terry Conway, along with key staff and club stakeholders in researching, planning, and proposing solutions for the significant areas in need of attention, most notably: course drainage, deteriorating bunkers, tree health, as well as the lack of family-focused forward tees. In the end, the team’s plan will improve conditions, increase strategy, accommodate forward sets of tees for kids and beginners, and focus on long-term sustainability.
“I’m beyond excited to get this project underway,” says Staples. “I think what the Club is doing is right in line with how other successful club across the country are addressing their needs, and I’m certain this plan will exceed everyone’s expectations.”