New Jersey will soon have a new, state-of-the-art golf club, courtesy of Mike Trout, a 10-time Major League Baseball All-Star for the Los Angeles Angels and a New Jersey native.
Trout, whose hometown is Millville, teamed up with a South Jersey developer John Ruga, and his wife, Lorie Ruga, on the project. Construction is set to begin this year on a site in Vineland that will be designed by golf legend Tiger Woods.
Located about 45 minutes south of Philadelphia, the property that was formerly home to a silica sand mine will not only feature 18 holes, but will include a practice range, short-game area, clubhouse, restaurant, lodging and wedding chapel.
The three-time American League MVP made the announcement Monday on Twitter, saying he is “excited to be able to make a longtime dream” a reality by having Woods and his golf course design company, TGR Design, create the 18-hole course, which they hope to open to members in 2025.
We promised you all a big announcement and here it is! We are so excited to be able to make a longtime dream of mine a reality, with none other than @tigerwoods and @tgrdesignbytw. We can’t wait to share more updates with you as we create Trout National – The Reserve. pic.twitter.com/V8eMGEUYdS
— Mike Trout (@MikeTrout) March 27, 2023
Ruga is also CEO and president of Northeast Precast LLC, a Vineland manufacturer that employs 475 people who make precast concrete products used in residential and commercial building construction, highway infrastructure and heavy marine construction markets.
John Ruga said the golf club will drive new economic benefits and jobs to the Vineland area.
“Trout National – the Reserve is going to be the place where members gather to enjoy an unforgettable club experience,” Ruga said. “Equally as important, we’re focused on making the club a catalyst for job creation and economic development in our area, while also exploring ways for nonmembers to enjoy it.”
Trout, who starred in baseball and basketball at Millville Senior High School before being selected by the Angels in the first round of the 2009 Major League Baseball Draft, continues to make South Jersey his home in the off season. He met his wife, Jessica Trout, in Millville, and his parents, siblings and in-laws still live in the area.
