Fifty years after Deerwood Country Club last hosted a PGA Tour event, the Southside Jacksonville course is getting its most extensive renovation in its 65-year history. Erik is leading the effort, which includes sweeping changes to the back nine, a full infrastructure overhaul, and a new short course designed to serve everyone from beginners to low handicappers.

A Back Nine Transformed

The front nine needs little work, but starting at the 10th hole, the back will be nearly unrecognizable. Highlights include a redesigned par-5 10th modeled after the sixth at Bay Hill, a shared Biarritz green between holes 12 and 14, and a shortened 15th whose green drops to the edge of a pond -- a nod to the 12th at Augusta National. New grass throughout and a complete drainage and irrigation overhaul round out the work.

Growing the Game

Alongside the main course renovation, a new short course and social hub will sit adjacent to the driving range, designed for skills challenges, junior development, and post-round gatherings. Renovation begins fall 2026 with a planned reopening in late summer 2027.

Read the full story at the Florida Times-Union.