At a time when many golf courses and driving ranges are being bulldozed to make way for housing developments, one standout is going against the trend.
And, it’s SportsVille, and it’s doubling down on its commitment to the game and the community around it, even with Topgolf opening soon in Avon, according to its owners.
At SportsVille, the mission has always been to give golfers and families a place where practice meets play and community is just as important as competition, the owners said.
Located at 37500 Center Ridge Road, the year-round lighted facility has become one of the most comprehensive golf and recreation destinations in the area, said owner Mohamad Khatoun.
Golfers using the mats on the new expanded driving range at SportsVille in North Ridgeville. (Courtesy of Sportsville)
In fact, SportsVille’s success over the years has inspired others to open similar golf facilities in nearby cities, Khatoun said.
Walking the grounds, it is clear to see why; the atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, with friendly interactions among guests of all ages, he said.
Staff and management clearly are focused on creating engaging experiences with events and leaderboards visible throughout the facility, Khatoun said.
On any day, golfers and mini golfers will enjoy their activities, while a few guests will work on their computers, blending recreation with productivity, he said.
SportsVille made history by becoming the first to install Toptracer ball tracking technology in the area, Khatoun said.
“We installed 20 climate-controlled Toptracer bays in 2022, providing golfers with comfortable year-round play at no additional cost to the customers,” he said. “And, we recently added 20 more for a total of 40 bays.
Golfers using the grass tees at Sportsville in North Ridgeville. (Courtesy of Sportsville)
“This, combined with our large grass tee area, short-game practice and indoor golf facilities, allows us to provide a full immersive golf experience to individuals and groups of all skill levels.”
Golfers can sharpen their skills on the well-maintained grass tees, and work on other aspects of their game in the dedicated short-game practice area,
And for those looking to add technology and game play to their visit, the Toptracer bays and indoor golf simulators provide plenty of options to do so, Khatoun said.
The new Toptracer additions include 10 covered bays with cozy seating for a relaxed social feel, and another 10 outdoor bays for those who prefer being in the sun.
For golfers who want to keep swinging through the winter, SportsVille offers another option.
“We have five state-of-the-art indoor golf simulators — a completely weatherproof alternative to the outdoor bays — so you can play and practice in total comfort no matter how harsh the winter gets,” explained Lisa Khatoun, co-owner of SportsVille.
The facility’s pre-season and winter indoor golf leagues have become a major draw.
These “open” format leagues let players complete their weekly rounds at their convenience, the owners said.
Handicapped leaderboards keep the competition fun and fair, and the season ends with men’s and women’s playoffs and finals — complete with trophies and prizes.
“The leagues have grown every year,” added Joe Battaglia the golf pro at SportsVille. “And, this season is shaping up to be our biggest yet.”
But, SportsVille isn’t just about golf — it’s about connection, Lisa Khatoun said.
“SportsVille has been reimagined as more than just a practice facility — it’s now a social venue and a well-known hub of activity for the city and surrounding communities,” she said.
Weekly friendly Toptracer challenges, and annual mini golf competitions, with leaderboards, prizes and bragging rights keep guests coming back, the owners said.
“Our business strategy is simple,” Mohamad Khatoun said. “Guest experience and affordability are our top priority.
“We will invest in anything that improves customer experience without significantly impacting our prices — everything else is secondary.”
When asked about Topgolf opening in Avon, Mohamad Khatoun responded, we hope it will be a win-win situation; only time will tell.”
Miniature golf course
Outside, the 18-hole miniature golf course — complete water features, rivers and music playing — offers fun for families and friends of all ages, the owners said.
Fully lit grounds keep the energy going well into the evening, and batting cages with adjustable speeds provide another outlet of practice and fun, they said.
SportsVille is open year-round, with current hours from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m., though hours vary depending on the season.
The venue is wheelchair accessible, accepts all major credit cards and offers gift cards.
For more information, call 440-327-3040 or email info@SportsVilleOhio.com.
