The heat and afternoon rain have returned to Central Florida. After what felt like a mild spring, Mother Nature has really turned up the heat. As we kick into the summer season, you’ll notice a lot of work going on. Our assessment projects are all in various stages of completion.
The team at Shoreline Marine Contractors has put in a significant effort on the bulkhead project. They’ve finished #9 Classic and are well on their way to completing #12 Challenge. The craftsmanship and aesthetic appeal are a great addition to the Club.
Nick, Anton, and Corey, along with the grounds crew, have been hard at work as well. Our first closure on Classic was a success, and they’re working hard on the Challenge. Hole #1 has been cleared out along St. Andrew, and the stage is set for our new plantings and irrigation to be in place for the remainder of the growing season. Our sprinkler head replacements on Classic will be installed later this summer.
There are some significant happenings around the Pro Shop. If you’ve been golfing over the last few weeks, you’ve probably had the chance to meet Ryan Williams, our new Director of Golf. If not, I’d like to encourage everyone to stop by the Pro Shop and say hello to Ryan and take a few minutes to chat with him. He and his family are just settling into the Suntree community after moving down from Georgia, and we’re very excited to have him. Ryan has some excellent plans for the golf experience at Suntree, so stay tuned.
Speaking of new team members, you may have also noticed two additions to the grounds crew. Ace & Maverick are our two new course dogs. They’ve been tasked with helping the team deter rodents and Egyptian geese from setting up shop here. Many of you have seen the dogs receiving their Puppy 101 Training on the North Lawn, and soon, they will head to a board and train facility for a month! They’re working hard to learn the grounds.
Scott Miller C LUB P RESIDENT
The team at ELM has been working closely with the strategic planning team. I want to thank everyone who took the time to respond to the survey and participate in the focus groups. We’re actively working on a long-term plan for the Suntree campus with your thoughts and opinions in mind. We should have something to share with everyone later this year or in early 2027.
As everyone settles into their summer routine, make sure you come out to the Club and enjoy all that makes Suntree fun. The social schedule is full of things to do, and there’s always the chance to meet some of our new members and make new connections.
I hope to see everyone for fireworks on July 3rd!
Dr. Scott
Miller
Board President
MESSAGE from the GENERAL MANAGER
Dear Members,
The Club has been operating at a strong level these last few months and I am very happy with the production and amount of work the departments have been able to accomplish.
Ryan Williams, our new Director of Golf, arrived earlier in June and is settling in while working with Austin and the golf team. I know that Ryan has some thoughts and plans that he will bring to the membership in the coming months and am looking forward to it. Ryan, during his transition, also hired Jennifer Aumsbaugh, who will be joining us from The Cliffs in North Carolina to become our Director of Retail and will oversee both golf and tennis merchandise. Jennifer has been busy opening accounts with new golf and tennis lines that will be shared in the month of July. I am excited for both the tennis and golf members to see the new lines and to provide feedback on other merchandise you would like to see provided to you as a member.
Racquets Sports had a very good season and is now settling down for more evening play with both tennis and pickleball. Paul Davis has more summer programming coming to all of you and I look forward to seeing you all in the cooler evenings enjoys the courts. For anyone interested in participating in or learning more about the teams please reach out and contact our Director of Racquet Sports Paul Davis or our Pickleball Professional, Ian Kalman.
Robert A. Stone, Jr., CCM, CCE, LCAM
G ENERAL M ANAGER/ COO
We are coming out of a very aggressive spring aerification program with the Drill & Fill, aerification and verticutting. The greens typically take a little longer to heal as this process is incredibly disruptive and creates very large holes in the greens to place a lot of sand, but it is incredibly beneficial for the long-term health and playability of the greens. The bulkhead project on the Challenge course is coming along and is going to be not only beautiful but also safe and functional for many years to come. This project will carry over to the second Challenge Course closure to finish holes 14 and 7. On Challenge #8, we are expanding the middle tee to add more teeing ground and have a better ability to maintain proper turf. This project will be complete prior to reopening but will need additional time for the turf to heal prior to being playable. I look forward to all of your thoughts on this expansion project as it will add another dimension to this hole. The landscape project along St. Andrews is coming along and will be complete by the end of June. The project includes all new viburnum hedges along with foxtail palms every 30 feet. The area will now be fully irrigated to maintain healthy landscape as well as healthier turf along the left side of #1 fairway. This new landscaping will begin back by the practice putting green on Challenge and continue to behind #1 Challenge green, which is a little longer than 1/3 of a mile. We have been receiving very positive input from both the members and homeowners who travel along St. Andrews each day.
Food & Beverage and Club events continue to expand and the attendance at our events and our increased cover counts in the restaurant are impressive. The service training that is taking place in the F&B department is showing off in very strong comments from the membership and their guests, and includes our Club Events as well as our hosted banquets. Congratulations to Edgar Lopez being named as our new Executive Chef. He brings many years of awardwinning experience to our culinary team and I look forward the improvements he will continue to make. Additionally, congratulations to April Shock being promoted to Assistant Dining Room Manager. She adds another dimension to our service team and will provide support to the entire F&B staff.
I look forward to seeing all of you at our social and athletic events and thank you for the continued support of our Club.
Sincerely,
Robert A. Stone, Jr., CCM, CCE, LCAM General Manager
As summer settles into Brevard County, the heat has certainly turned up, and while the temperatures bring their challenges, they also provide opportunities to continue improving our golf courses. Following the successful completion of our first Classic Course closure, our team has remained focused on delivering meaningful improvements that enhance both course conditions and the overall member experience.
One of the most noticeable projects completed during the closure was the new bulkhead installation on Classic. The finished product turned out exceptionally well, and we hope it not only creates a memorable visual experience for every round but also reflects the direction Suntree Country Club is heading as we continue to invest in the future of our facilities.
Our agronomic programs continue to produce positive results. In 2025, we discussed our commitment to improving weed control throughout the property. While progress may not always be immediately visible, significant improvements have been made. As we move into summer, we are now battling seasonal weeds that are aggressive and often require multiple applications to achieve effective control. We remain confident in our program and proactive approach, staying ahead of infestations to minimize spread and improve overall turf quality. Consistency is key, and our long-term success is built through the repetition of sound agronomic practices. We expect to see continued improvement in 2027 as these programs mature.
Attention now shifts to our Challenge Course closure, where several exciting projects are underway. Members will notice bulkhead enhancement work on Holes 12 and 13, additional cart path improvements, and the creation of supplemental parking near the Challenge putting green to better accommodate future use. In addition, the landscape enhancement project along Hole 1 is progressing nicely, with a new hedgerow installation that will provide a more attractive and defined entrance to this area of the course.
Nick Garibay D IRECTOR OF A GRONOMY
Both golf courses have now received Drill & Fill treatments along with traditional core aerification. These practices are essential for reducing organic matter accumulation, improving soil structure, increasing root development, and creating firmer, smoother playing surfaces. Recent testing and evaluations conducted by Todd Lowe continue to validate the progress being made. His findings indicate that our programs are delivering the desired results, producing smoother, truer greens while moving us closer to our longterm conditioning goals.
None of these accomplishments would be possible without the dedication of our agronomy team. The next several months will be busy as multiple projects continue simultaneously, but our staff remains committed to executing each one safely, efficiently, and to the high standards expected by our membership. Their hard work and attention to detail are what drive the improvements you see across the property every day.
We appreciate your continued support and patience as these projects progress. We look forward to completing these enhancements and providing an even better golf experience for years to come.
Thank you for your continued support,
Nick Garibay Director of Agronomy
EVENT AND CATERING News
Hello Members,
Are you considering hosting an event at the Club? We strive to make event planning easy and your special occasion truly memorable!
Did you know that your room rental fee is waived for special events when you are a member? Members also receive a 50% discount on wedding reception rental fees. Contact Lucy or Jes to start planning your next celebration.
We have some exciting activities coming up as we wrap up the summer:
July 3 – Pool Party & Fireworks
Enjoy an evening pool party featuring DJ Bob. The Palm Restaurant will be open for lunch and dinner. Fireworks begin at 9:15 PM.
July 4 – Annual Independence Day Cookout
Join us from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM for a day of great food, music, waterslides, games, and family fun.
July 16 – BINGO
July 19 – Chef’s Breakfast Buffet
10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
July 23 – Celebrating Founding Member Colonel Don Mathews' 100th Birthday. If you see him around, be sure to wish him a Happy 100th birthday!!!
July 29 – Wine Society
August 8 – Back-to-School Pool Party
7:00 PM poolside
August 20 – BINGO
August 29 – Live Music: Carl Lewis Band
7:00 PM
You won't want to miss this performance!
September 3 – Pasta, Puzzles & Pinot Teams of four.
September 6 – Labor Day Weekend Cookout & Pool Party
Celebrate Labor Day a day early! Join us from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
September 13 – Chef’s Breakfast Buffet
10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
September 17 – BINGO
September 26 – 90s Night Featuring Mix Tape
Enjoy live entertainment and all your favorite hits from the 90s. 90s-themed attire is encouraged!
We look forward to seeing you at these events and making more great memories together! Please feel free to send an email to lucy.paulson@suntree.com or jes.akey@suntree.com for help with events.
Thank You,
Lucy Paulson Director of Events
Lucy Paulson D IRECTOR OF E VENTS
GOLF News
It's been a few weeks since officially landing at Suntree Country Club as your new Director of Golf and so far it's been a wonderful welcome to the Club and Melbourne community. Before we get too far into it though, it's been asked that I include a brief bio:
Both my wife Rachel and I are originally from Augusta, GA and have relocated to Suntree from Columbus, GA where I served previously as Head Golf Professional at the Country Club of Columbus for the past nine years. Before taking over at "the CCC", my career had stops at Secession in Beaufort, SC, Champions Retreat in Augusta, GA and the Country Club of North Carolina in Pinehurst, NC while attending Methodist University in Fayetteville, NC. When we are not working, we both enjoy chasing our boys around: Gray (11) and Drew (7), are die-hard Braves fans and also love the beach.
Now for the fun part... my initial thoughts on Suntree and my new position as Director of Golf
First, everyone has been friendly and welcoming – so that has been wonderful! Secondly, there has been a resounding theme of respect and appreciation amongst the membership with regard to the current staff. I'm very fortunate to come to work each day with this group of individuals and I couldn't be happier to have landed where
TOURNAMENT Results
Ryan
Williams D IRECTOR OF G OLF
I did. The future of Suntree is very bright and I look forward to all of the improvements we will accomplish together as well as continuing to foster and strengthen relationships amongst the staff and membership.
Lastly, if you aren't receiving the Golf e-News on Wednesday afternoons, please let me know so we can get you added to the list. There is a lot of helpful information that comes out weekly with regards to upcoming events, tournaments and shop specials, so if you aren't "plugged in" let us know so we can help!
Looking forward to getting to know each of you better in the coming months and please know that the door to my office is always open - feel free to stop in anytime and say hi, I'd love it!
Thank You,
Ryan Williams, PGA Director of Golf
Memorial Day Scramble
LADIES FLIGHT WINNERS
Sandra Donahue, Darien Lawrence, Barbara McCracken, Muffin Larsen
MENS FLIGHT 1 CHAMpIoNS
Aaron Lynard, Dwayne Connelly, Jared Shammah, Eric Luzar
MENS FLIGHT 2 CHAMpIoNS
Ed Hough, David Fischer, Bryan Holm, Brian Woodworth
MIxED FLIGHT 1 WINNERS
Rob & Donna Gatto and Rob & Michele Lattig
MIxED FLIGHT 2 WINNERS
William & Beth Shorr and Todd & Lisa Stirtzinger
MIxED FLIGHT 3 WINNERS
John & Teresa Goulding and Andrew & Carol Loconto
TOURNAMENT Results
Danny Renfro
Mens Club Championship
Kurt Naasz
Ladies Club Championship
CHAMpIoN
Lea Anne Richard
ovERALL CHAMpIoNS
Magnolia Invitational
Gary Keymont (G) & Mick Graham (M)
FLIGHT 1 WINNERS
Ryan Fenton (G) & Andrew Blanke (M)
FLIGHT 2 WINNERS
Mike O'Grady (M) & Troy Lamm (G)
FLIGHT 4 WINNERS
James Finigan (G) & James Cooper (M)
FLIGHT 5 WINNERS
Alan Ceepo (G) & Michael Kouzelos (M)
FLIGHT 6 WINNERS
Dean Pahr (G) & Eddie Papczun (M)
FLIGHT 7 WINNERS
Richard Markoe (G) & Bryan Taylor (M)
FLIGHT 8 WINNERS
Sean Murtha (G) & Brian Murtha (M)
FLIGHT 9 WINNERS
Tim Seidensticker (G) & Stephen Basile (M)
FLIGHT 10 WINNERS
David Carver (M) & Kellen Miller (G)
FLIGHT 11 WINNERS
Jim Kirby (G) & Dan Jimenez (M)
FLIGHT 12 WINNERS
Andrew Cain (G) & Kyle Nylander (M)
RACQUET CENTER News
Summer is here and there is a full schedule happening at the Racquets Center! Here is a list of upcoming events and clinics available:
Tennis
• Independence Day Firecracker Mixer — July 4th, 8:30am – 11am
• Ladies Doubles Camp — Aug 10–13, 9:30am – 12pm
• Labor Day Mixer — September 7th, 8:30am – 11am
• Men's Fall Intraclub League: Thursday nights at 7pm, Dates TBD
• Space Coast Tennis League for Women, Senior Women, and Mixed – Kick-off in August!
Pickleball
• Independence Day Firecracker Mixer — July 4th, 8:30 –11am
• Intraclub League – Monday nights at 7pm
• Women's Interclub League – September, Wednesday Mornings at 9am
• Weekly groups have been set up for evening play.
• Keep an eye out for Pickleball Tournaments and Big Winning Nights throughout the summer!
• Summer Tennis and Pickleball Exhibition Nights – Keep an eye out on the calendar for dates!
Junior Tennis
• Advanced Junior Tennis Clinics: Monday – Thursday weekly from 12:00pm – 2:30pm in July and the first week of August. All players must be approved by the Junior Director, Tom Knights.
Paul Davis
D IRECTOR OF R ACQUET S PORTS
10 & Under Tennis
• Orange Ball – Tuesdays & Thursdays from 4:30pm –6:30pm
• Green Ball – Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:30pm –5:30pm
• Please contact Tom Knights (tom.knights@suntree.com) to identify which class would be most appropriate for your child.
Once school starts again, the advanced junior schedule will change to Monday – Thursday from 5:30 – 7:00pm.
Have a wonderful summer and see you at the courts! Paul Davis Director of Racquet Sports
Important Contact Information
Pro Shop 321.242.6242
Paul Davis Director of Racquet Sports paul.davis@suntree.com
Claudia Santos Facilities Manager and Assistant Tennis Professional claudia.santos@suntree.com
Tom Knights Manager of Men's & Junior Programming tom.knights@suntree.com
Ian Kalman Head Pickleball Professional Ian.kalman@suntree.com
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AROUND THE CLUB Photos
Since joining the pickleball community at Suntree Country Club, one thing has stood out immediately - how welcoming and supportive the members have been. From the very beginning, players of all skill levels have created an environment that is not only competitive and fun, but also genuinely encouraging. Whether it’s during open play, organized matches, or casual conversations around the courts, there’s a strong sense of community that makes everyone feel included. One of the biggest additions helping strengthen that community has been the Swish app. The app has made it easier than ever for members to connect, organize games, communicate, and stay involved with everything happening around the courts. It has helped bring players together both on and off the court, creating more opportunities for competition, friendships, and participation throughout the Club.
As the summer approaches, there’s a lot of excitement surrounding this year’s intraclub pickleball season. With growing participation, strong member engagement, and the continued energy around the program, it’s shaping up to be a fantastic season full of great matches and memorable moments. Looking ahead, the future of the pickleball program at Suntree Country Club is incredibly exciting.
The passion from the members, the growth of the community, and the continued development of organized events and leagues all point toward something special. It’s been great to be a part of the momentum, and there’s no doubt the Club’s pickleball community will continue to thrive!
Thank You, Ian Kalman Pickleball Pro
Ian Kalman
As we head into another exciting summer season, I look forward to seeing families enjoying time together by the pool and utilizing other amenities at the Club –such as a friendly match on the racquet courts or an evening putting contest on the lit green off the Veranda.
One of the most exciting trends we are seeing is the continued evolution of our membership demographic, with our average age steadily declining our membership is becoming more diverse than ever before. The Club is thriving with a wonderful mix of young families, successful professionals, and long-time members all enjoying the lifestyle and friendships that make this place so special.
As always, member referrals remain the most effective and meaningful way we welcome new members into the Club. There is no better endorsement than hearing firsthand from those who already call the Club home. This summer, we encourage you to invite your friends, neighbors, coworkers, and family members to join you at the Club so they can experience everything membership has to offer — from casual pool days and family events to exceptional dining and social experiences.
We are also excited to share the launch of our newly redesigned website and mobile app. Both platforms were thoughtfully updated to create a more user-friendly and streamlined experience for members, making it easier than ever to stay connected with the Club. From viewing the
Anna Collins D IRECTOR OF M EMBERSHIP
event calendar and making dining reservations to accessing important Club information and updates, these enhanced tools are designed to help you make the most of your membership experience.
Additionally, we encourage all members to regularly review the monthly Club calendar for upcoming events and activities. Many of our events fill quickly during the summer months, so signing up early not only helps reserve your spot but also assists our team in planning appropriately to deliver the best possible experience for everyone attending.
As always, if you have any questions about your membership or privileges, please stop by the Membership office, call or email me – I am more than happy to help!
One might argue that the pool and pool bar are the best locations in Brevard to enjoy the summer and beat the heat. What a great venue to enjoy the pool and keep hydrated with frozen cocktails or mocktails, as well as lunch, a snack, or dinner. We look forward to seeing you out on the deck this summer!
Lifeguard
Suntree staffs a lifeguard from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday, from Memorial Day through Labor Day. A great stress reliever to help keep an eye on kids in the pool.
Pool Bar
Open Tuesday through Sunday from 11:00 a.m. through at least 7:00 p.m. However, if you are here enjoying the evening, we will extend our hours that night.
Inclement Weather
Summer often brings some storms with it. In the event our Perry Weather System alerts us of lightning in the area, the pool and pool deck area will close, and our team is instructed to remain protected indoors. The membership is advised to do the same. If conditions are expected to clear up within an hour, we will promptly reopen and provide an all-clear notification.
Jim Tills
F OOD & B EVERAGE D IRECTOR
In addition, please keep an eye out for our weekly Social E-News publication (Mondays) in your email. There, we will highlight the many upcoming events designed to add value to your membership and offer reservations for them. If, for some reason, you are not getting that email, please see Katie Holley, our Communications Manager, and she will get that fixed. You can email her at katie.holley@suntree.com.
Some of our key fun activities currently planned for this summer include:
Friday, July 3, we will have our fireworks show at 9:15 p.m. We hope you can join us for dinner in the Palm Restaurant or on the pool deck that night and enjoy the show. We’re planning a Family Field Day during aerification on August 1, as well as a concert by Carl Lewis and his band on August 29. Our traditions continue to expand, based on your participation, and include Burger Nights, Prime Rib Carvings, and Chef’s Breakfasts, typically held each month. With continued member participation, we will continue to add fun events for your enjoyment of the Club. If you have any suggestions, please email jim.tills@suntree.com.
Again, keep an eye out for Monday’s weekly email for additional information and details.
Thank you again for your participation with the Club. We continue to strive to deliver a great experience for you each time you are here.
We look forward to seeing you at the Club, Jim Tills Director of Food & Beverage
