Shodeen reclaims management of Mill Creek Golf Club in Geneva

Shodeen Inc., owner of Mill Creek Golf Club in Geneva, has assigned management of the 18-hole public course to its Shodeen Hospitality division. The firm also announced the recent completion of several convenience and cosmetic upgrades at Mill Creek Golf Club, including enhanced landscaping.

Paul Ruby, vice president of operations for Shodeen Hospitality, said his division-which also handles operations at the acclaimed Herrington Inn & Spa and Riverside Receptions catering and banquet facility, both in Geneva-is a natural fit to oversee the golf course, which is located within Mill Creek, a master-planned new home community.

"Our experienced team is renowned for accommodating patrons in style and luxury, providing the finest hospitality and highest level of service possible," said Ruby. "Managing the golf course in-house makes a lot of sense; guests and residents alike are going to appreciate the difference we make."

Eric Johnson, general manager of Mill Creek Golf Club, said notable enhancements were recently implemented on and around the course that "boost the visible curb appeal." Patio upgrades include seating and oversized umbrellas, new flowers, foliage and mulch. Hanging baskets now grace the course, clubhouse and entrance. The clubhouse has added a new TV, sound system, resort-style sofas and comfy chairs. Turf upgrades were made at tees, fairways and greens, and drainage and sand composition improvements were completed, with more in the works.

What's more, the a la carte menu and hours of operation were expanded at Creekside Tavern-the clubhouse restaurant/bar-and additional golf tournaments and exclusive events are planned, such as a brunch on Easter and Mother's Day. Also in the works are special cross-promotional events and discount packages involving the course and Riverside Receptions, as well as Herrington Inn & Spa-which has earned four diamonds from AAA the last 19 years.

Ruby, who added that Mill Creek Golf Club was voted by Kane County Chronicle newspaper readers as the area's favorite golf course in 2011, said the club's latest augmentations were in response to feedback from golfers and Shodeen's own competitive market analysis.

"We're devoted to making noticeable improvements in course conditions and amenities and maintaining the high standard we've set with our golf academy," Ruby said. "Our goal is to make what is already an outstanding golf club even better with a greater attention to detail and a more convenient array of services and choices for Mill Creek guests and homeowners."

Johnson said he's excited to be part of a team that's committed to ensuring a great experience for club patrons.

"Shodeen doesn't stake itself to anything that's not first-class," said Johnson. "We're going to build upon the exceptional reputation we've earned and continue to overdeliver on everyone's expectations."

Mill Creek Golf Club, designed by esteemed golf architect Roy Case, opened as a nine-hole course in 1996 and was completed in 1998. The main course has multiple tees on each hole, providing golfers with the ability to select the appropriate length from which groups can play. The course is famous for its multiple tiers and elevated tees on several holes, revealing stunning views of the Fox Valley, as well as its wildflowers on abundant display throughout the facility. Its USGA ratings and slopes are: men black-71.4/135; men blue-68.6/126; women blue-65.8/120; and women green-66.4/116.

The club features a nine-hole "pitch and putt" course, putting green, and driving range, which Ruby noted has benefitted from recent upgrades that make it "even more user-friendly." Aside from the tavern, the clubhouse also houses a pro shop and ample space for banquets, wedding receptions and other events. In addition, Mill Creek Golf Club offers equipment rentals, golf carts, group clinics, kids' classes, on-course beverage service, and private instruction.

For more information or to book a tee time or event at Mill Creek Golf Club, located at 39W525 Herrington Dr. in Geneva, phone (630) 208-7272 or visit www.MillCreekGolfCourse.com.