By Ms Jheri Worldwide
Staff Writer
Designed by legendary Golf Architect Bob Toski in the late 70's, Northgreen Country Club has become a staple of the Rocky Mount community, beloved by both veterans and newcomers in the sport of golf. Northgreen Country Club is back, and according to the Stanley and Cheryl Campbell, it's on a path to becoming "the best golf course within the region," to be "the best course in the state." What was once a source of historical pride, but more recently a subject of conversation due to its state, is now a course being meticulously brought back to glory.
In a recent interview, details were shared regarding the comprehensive revitalization efforts currently underway. While the course may not be the "neatest" at the moment due to ongoing projects, the work being completed is extensive. Seven miles of new cart paths have been added, the greens are being carefully restored with weekly fertilizing and monthly treatments, and the fairways are being repaired to eliminate concave paths from collapsed, 50-year-old pipes. The timeline for completion is ambitious, with the course expected to be back to its old self within three weeks.
The course itself, which meets all PGA certifications, is described as both "very difficult" for professionals and "very easy" for the average player—the true "beauty of Northgreen." Beyond the course itself, other facilities are also being upgraded. The driving range, which was uncovered from under dirt and grass, will soon have new cushioned pads for teeing off. Plans are also in place to reopen the tennis courts and the pool, and the clubhouse is receiving a facelift.
The ownership story behind this revival is as compelling as the course's history. The Campbell family are among only eight Black owners of PGA-certified country clubs in the United States, and they are the only people of color to own more than two, with three total clubs. The ownership team lamented the lack of diversity in the business of golf. This historical context is a driving force behind their mission.
Northgreen's history is illustrious, having hosted the ACC championship when the conference had the best golfers in the world. The Mr. Campbell recalled that even legendary golfer Davis Love III, who was once the best golfer alive, never won here despite playing three times. Their ultimate goal is to bring that prestige back by inviting the ACC to return for a championship or tour play within a year.
The ownership team’s passion for golf goes beyond the greens and into the community. The club is currently hosting students from the Boys and Girls Club of Rocky Mount in a eight-week program designed to teach them the game and golf culture. They are also actively mentoring future PGA professionals, including Xavier Williams, a North Carolina A&T alum who is now competing for a spot in the Wyndham Classic. Williams developed into one of the top golfers on N.C. A&T's team. He has had an outstanding career thus far not allowing COVID-19 pandemic to hampered his collegiate career. He has played 73 1/2 rounds as an Aggie with 5,605 strokes for a career average of 76.3. Mr. Campbell emphasized that this mentorship includes not just golf skills but also the business of golf and a rigorous training regimen that rivals that of NFL players.
Mrs. Campbell elaborated that the club is not just for golfers; it’s a versatile facility for the entire community. It's open to the public, with no membership required to enjoy its offerings. The club has recently hosted family reunions, weddings, baby showers, and even a "paint and sip" event. Mrs. Campbell encourages non-golfing women to get out of the cart and play the game, reinforcing the idea that this is a place for everyone to engage and enjoy. Northgreen County Club welcomes you to visit the website, book a tee time, and enjoy this gem in eastern North Carolina.
