The Eleven opens at Kalamazoo Country Club.

For immediate release

KALAMAZOO, MICH. Following the recent opening of its reimagined clubhouse, Kalamazoo Country Club has reached another milestone in its ongoing transformation with the official opening of The Eleven, an innovative 11-hole short course designed by renowned golf course architect Andrew Green.

The opening of The Eleven represents far more than the debut of a new golf course. It marks the next chapter in the Club’s long-term vision to create one of the Midwest’s premier golf destinations through thoughtful course architecture, exceptional instruction, state-of-the-art player development, and experiences that welcome golfers of every age and skill level.

Designed by one of golf architecture’s most respected modern voices, The Eleven reflects Green’s belief that great golf is defined not by distance, but by creativity, strategy, and memorable shot-making. While Green is widely recognized for restoring some of the country’s most celebrated golf courses, including Golf Digest’s Best Renovated Golf Course in 2024 at Interlachen Country Club and Golfweek’s Restoration of the Year at Inverness Club, The Eleven showcases that same design philosophy in a course built entirely around the modern golfer.

Stretching 1,295 yards, The Eleven features 11 holes ranging from 50 to 185 yards, each with its own distinct character, bold green complexes, and creative shot opportunities. Every shot on the course falls within 185 yards, encouraging golfers to rely on precision, imagination, and short-game strategy rather than power. Multiple teeing areas and flexible routing create countless ways to experience the course, making it equally enjoyable for beginners, families, juniors, accomplished players, and anyone looking to enjoy a memorable round in less time.

“One of the goals of The Eleven was to create a place where every golfer feels like they belong. Whether you’re picking up a club for the first time or you’re a scratch player, every hole asks different questions and encourages creativity. You can hit nearly every club in your bag, experience the full range of shots the game offers, and enjoy golf in a way that feels refreshing, purposeful, and incredibly fun.” Andrew Green, golf course architect

Green believes thoughtfully designed short courses represent an important part of golf’s future by making the game more approachable while preserving the strategy and creativity that make it so compelling.

“Instead of needing four or five hours, golfers can come out, experience every type of shot the game offers, and do it in a way that’s lighter, more accessible, and full of soul. Ultimately, we wanted to build a course that people simply want to play again and again.” Andrew Green, golf course architect

The Eleven is the first opportunity for members to experience Green’s architectural vision ahead of the opening of his highly anticipated 18-hole championship course, currently under construction and scheduled to open in 2027. Together, the two courses will create a golf experience unlike any other in the region.

Complementing the Club’s investment in golf architecture is an equally significant investment in player development. Under the leadership of Scott Adland, PGA Director of Instruction, and Chris Johnson, PGA Master Professional and Lead Golf Coach, Kalamazoo Country Club has assembled one of the region’s most accomplished instructional teams. Supported by the Club’s new Golf Performance Center and industry-leading technology, members have access to world-class coaching, personalized instruction, and year-round opportunities to improve every aspect of their game.

Johnson recently earned PGA Master Professional status in Teaching and Coaching, the highest educational designation awarded by the PGA of America, placing him among an elite group of golf professionals nationwide. His addition further reinforces Kalamazoo Country Club’s commitment to becoming a destination for player development as well as exceptional golf.

“Our vision has always been bigger than building new facilities. We set out to create a place where people can experience golf in new ways, improve their game, spend time with family and friends, and build lasting relationships. From The Eleven and our new clubhouse to our Golf Performance Center and championship course, every investment has been made with the future of our membership and the future of the game in mind.” Tim Rayman, Chief Executive Officer, Greenleaf Hospitality Group

For Green, seeing members enjoy The Eleven is especially meaningful considering what the property once was.

“It wasn’t long ago this was simply a field. To stand here today and see what John Fulling, Blaine Burch, and the entire grounds team have accomplished is remarkable. Their dedication transformed this property into a truly special place for the game of golf, and we’re just getting started.” Andrew Green, golf course architect

Together, The Eleven, the reimagined clubhouse, the Golf Performance Center, the leadership of Scott Adland and Chris Johnson, and the championship course opening in 2027 represent one of the most significant investments in Kalamazoo Country Club’s history. More importantly, they represent the Club’s commitment to creating a place where golfers can learn, compete, connect, and enjoy the game for generations to come.

Kalamazoo Country Club is currently welcoming new members who are interested in experiencing the Club’s expanding golf, dining, fitness, racquet sports, and family amenities. For more information about membership opportunities and the Club’s ongoing transformation, visit kalamazoocc.com.

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