Editor’s note: This article is part of The Changemakers series, focusing on the behind-the-scenes executives and people fueling the future growth of their sports.
PHILADELPHIA — Merion Golf Club, with its rich history and immaculate grounds, tells a tale of luxury and meticulous care. Water flows through the property, meandering through Merion and beyond, shaping a landscape that has seen years of shaping, renovating, and restoring.
On the other side of the city lies Cobbs Creek Golf Club, once a renowned public course but now a forgotten, overgrown space. Despite its decline, rumors of a revival circulated for years, sparking hope among golf enthusiasts.
In 2020, the Cobbs Creek Foundation, in a unique public-private partnership, took on the challenge of restoring Cobbs Creek to its former glory. With a vision to create a self-sustaining nonprofit that offers educational programs alongside affordable golf opportunities, the foundation embarked on an ambitious journey.
Initially estimated at $20 million, the project quickly evolved into a $65 million endeavor. Despite facing numerous hurdles, including environmental concerns and permit rejections, the foundation persevered. The once-forgotten course is now being transformed into a state-of-the-art facility that will cater to the community’s educational and recreational needs, with a projected completion date of 2027.
Among the key initiatives at Cobbs Creek is the establishment of a TGR Learning Lab by the Tiger Woods Foundation, providing STEM education to local youth. These efforts have garnered support from various organizations, including a grant from Jordan Spieth’s family foundation for a junior putting green.
As the transformation of Cobbs Creek unfolds, it represents a beacon of hope for public golf courses across the country. By reimagining the concept of public golf and blending it with educational opportunities, Cobbs Creek is setting a new standard for municipal courses.
In the early 1990s, as Cobbs Creek faced neglect, nearby elite clubs like Merion grappled with issues of inclusion. The U.S. Open controversy at Merion and the racial and gender exclusion at other private clubs highlighted the divide in the golfing community.
Designed by Hugh Wilson, Cobbs Creek served as a public space that welcomed players of all backgrounds, a stark contrast to the exclusivity of many other clubs. Over the years, Cobbs Creek became a sanctuary for Black golfers and a symbol of diversity in the sport.
Despite its historical significance, Cobbs Creek fell into disrepair, facing environmental and logistical challenges. However, a dedicated group of individuals, led by the Cobbs Creek Foundation, embarked on a mission to restore the course to its former glory.
With support from local business leaders and the TGR Foundation, Cobbs Creek is undergoing a transformation that extends beyond golf. By integrating education and community engagement, the foundation aims to provide a holistic experience that transcends the traditional golf course model.
As the restoration of Cobbs Creek progresses, it serves as a testament to the power of collaboration and vision in revitalizing public spaces. The legacy of Cobbs Creek, once faded from view, is now poised to make a resounding comeback, symbolizing the resilience and adaptability of municipal golf courses.
The Changemakers series is part of a partnership with Acura.
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(Illustration: Dan Goldfarb / The Athletic; Photos: Courtesy Cobbs Creek Foundation, Brendan Quinn / The Athletic)
