While the middle of Madison Street in Forest Park is probably one of the last places someone would consider taking a swing at a golf ball, one of the downtown area’s newest businesses is hoping that this spring, locals of all ages and golfing abilities will do just that.
Swing Away Sports Club, which opened its doors in January, is owned and operated by Forest Park residents Lance Pruett and his wife, Jill Williamson. Located at 7247 Madison St., the business offers golfers of all skill levels the opportunity to try their hand at simulated, data-powered golf lessons.
After a two-decade career coaching rugby, Pruett says opening Swing Away was his way of doing something entirely new in his retirement.
“I came across indoor golf and thought it would be a great idea, as there are few opportunities to practice golf in the immediate area,” he explained. “We thought that it was something missing from the area and are glad to be able to help fill that gap. We love our community and wanted to offer it something for everyone.”
At Swing Away, golfers get to play at one of two golf simulator bays, practicing distance control, speed and swing analysis using software with over 1,900 courses available, from fictional children’s courses such as Jurassic Park to world-renowned courses including Pebble Beach Golf Links (often rated the No. 1 public course in the U.S.) and Augusta National Golf Club (known for hosting the annual Masters Tournament).
“The simulator gives you data that you might not be able to access otherwise, and even shows a video of your club hitting the ball, to help you understand what may have happened on that last shot,” he said.
Patrons can either practice their golf game on their own or book private lessons with one of the center’s experienced instructors, with coaching tailored to each person’s skill level and goals.
Whether you’re itching to play golf on a rainy day, perfect your golf swing before hitting an outdoor course or just have fun with friends, Pruett says Swing Away strives to help people learn about and enjoy golf in a welcoming, judgemental-free space.
“It’s important to us to make golf accessible to everyone,” he said. “Going to a golf course can be an intimidating thing, and we want to help people overcome that feeling. We have had golfers from 5 years old to over 70 years old come in. We have avid golfers who come in regularly, and first timers who have never swung a club before. It’s a great environment to give golf a try.”
Since opening, Pruett says he’s been happy to see that men, women and children have come from across the golfing spectrum, from local high-school and college athletes to seasoned golfers and those just looking to try something new.
In addition, Swing Away is currently hosting a “Women’s Intro to Golf” program, with an LPGA-certified instructor, and also offers opportunities for small group leagues and private party space. In the near future, Pruett says Swing Away will include a fully-stocked snack bar — with hopes of selling alcohol as well — as well as several dart boards, offering locals a new spot for corporate events and fundraisers.
Overall, Pruett says he hopes locals find Swing Away to be a place where they can feel comfortable to truly come as they are.
“We enjoy being a local company with local clients,” he said. “We want to be a virtual golf club, where people can meet and get together with area neighbors — and we are working hard to create that environment.”
For more information or to book golf games, visit swingawaysports.club.