Ratchet City revival

Five years ago, Southern Trace Country Club in Shreveport, Louisiana, stood at a crossroads.

After decades of outside ownership, members decided to reclaim their club, purchasing it back from ClubCorp and promising a “return to excellence.” The often-used phrase quickly became more than a tagline; it was rallying point for what Southern Trace could once again become.

Half a decade later, that promise of excellence is visible at every turn. The club now features a new 70,000-square-foot practice facility, complete with a double-sided practice range, practice greens and a short-game area that mirrors real on-course challenges. And the Arthur Hills championship course boasts a new irrigation system, re-grassed tee boxes and fully rebuilt greens that once again meet championship standards. Established in 1988, the course hosted the WEB.Com Tour’s Southern Open from 1990 to 2002, as well as multiple state amateur championships and the AJGA David Toms Junior Invitational.

Southern Trace also enhanced its tennis courts, added pickleball courts and built a new restaurant in the clubhouse.

“Troon has been proud to work alongside Southern Trace members throughout this journey,” Troon operations VP David Stinson said. “From agronomy to clubhouse operations, our role has been to provide expertise and resources while empowering the membership to bring their vision to life. What’s been accomplished here is extraordinary, and it’s a direct reflection of a community working together.”

Even the smallest details tell the story of renewal, including “The Bunker,” a private swing suite with TrackMan technology that gives golfers and guests a new way to play, rain or shine.

Working closely with Troon, whose operational guidance has been integral to the process, Southern Trace members have proved what’s possible when passion and partnership align. As board of director president Clint Cormier reflects, “I’m incredibly proud to be part of this community and to see our members unite around a place that holds so many memories. They’ve invested in its future, proving our guiding message true: Your course. Your community. Your club.”