Inverness Golf Club breaks ground on new addition

Inverness Golf Club held a groundbreaking ceremony on Tuesday, Aug. 31, for its new Family Activity Center.

Construction is expected to begin soon on the new resort-like facility that will add paddle and pickleball courts, indoor golf simulators, a sports bar, an ultracasual dining room and a business lounge.

A complete overhaul of the existing clubhouse and dining rooms will be included in the overall transformation of the club.

Inverness Golf Club General Manager and COO William Skelnik welcomed about two dozen members and guests, including Inverness Mayor Jack Tatooles and village Manager Sam Trakas.

Current club President Kerry Lavelle added some brief remarks before the ceremonial first dig took place.

"It has been an unbelievable year, but our board and members have remained committed to this project. We are excited for the future of Inverness Golf Club and what this new facility will add," said Lavelle.

Lavelle noted that the final membership vote to endorse the plan to construct the new facility was tabulated on March 17, 2020, and was immediately followed by the statewide shutdown due to COVID.

He announced that applications for memberships have surged in recent months, and while the new activities are appealing to younger prospective members, it is the family feel at Inverness Golf Club that has meant the most to him since joining 11 years ago.

"Inverness Golf Club has always been welcoming to everyone, with a real family atmosphere," Lavelle said. "This new facility with its ultracasual dining room will be one more way for families to enjoy Inverness Golf Club."

He and Skelnik also noted that the new sports options and golf simulators will make the club a 12-month a year destination, creating a resort-like atmosphere for the entire family, greatly enhancing the value of memberships.

The club has targeted opening the new facility in early 2022.