Clubhouse for the Century: A modern clubhouse is unveiled, reflecting Elmwood’s championship status.
The new clubhouse and Legends Lounge & Grille opened on March 13, 2026.
In 1923, the first tee shot at Elmwood Golf Course signaled more than the start of a round—it sparked the beginning of public golf in Sioux Falls. For a century, this land on the city’s northwest side has thrived as "the people’s course," enduring early challenges, adapting with city growth, and evolving into a championship facility. Elmwood’s 100th anniversary stands as a testament to the vision of city leaders who believed that golf belongs to everyone.
Elmwood began with Fred Spellerberg, the "father" of the Sioux Falls park system. He led the city's decision to buy land for Elmwood and other parks. Skeptics called his plan for a large municipal course a mistake, doubting enough interest in golf.
With Elmwood’s foundation firmly established, the course would eventually enter a transformative era. From 2013 to 2016, Dakota Golf Management (DGM) led a massive $5 million, three-phase renovation. During this period, they worked closely with the city and architect Kevin Norby to navigate the complex issues surrounding the airport runway. As part of the renovation, holes 10, 11, 16, and 18 were rerouted to meet FAA safety zones for the airport’s runway expansion.
Building on this renovation, DGM and clubhouse manager Tom Jansa oversaw the reconstruction and re-grassing of tees, greens, and fairways, upgrades to irrigation and cart paths, and a new 5-hole short course. Meanwhile, Julie Jansa expanded the First Tee program, growing youth access and securing Elmwood’s future.
The Highlight: Legends Lounge & Grille
The star of the new facility is Legends Lounge & Grille, a full-service restaurant and bar that officially moves Elmwood into the modern era of "golf-and-dine" culture.
- Elevated Dining: Moving far beyond the standard turn-shack hot dog, the menu features chef-crafted options ranging from the OG smash burger and Cuban sandwich to grilled bistro steak.
- The "19th Hole" Reimagined: The lounge offers a sleek, modern bar with a selection of local craft beers and signature cocktails, perfect for settling up bets after a round.
- Prime Viewing: A spacious covered patio overlooks the 18th green, featuring high-definition TVs and fans. Enjoy comfort and camaraderie during every season.
Key Personnel at the Helm Today:
- Justin Arlt, PGA (Area Market Manager): Justin oversees the entire "Sioux Falls Golf" portfolio (Elmwood, Prairie Green, and Kuehn Park). He is the strategic lead for LGM in the local market.
- Chad Veire, PGA (Head Golf Professional): The "on-the-ground" leader at Elmwood. He manages the daily operations, pro shop, and tournament schedules.
- Norm Parsons (Regional Superintendent): A veteran of the Sioux Falls golf scene, Norm provides high-level agronomic oversight for all city courses.
- Todd Zoerink (Head Superintendent): The man responsible for the "turf" half of the legacy. He manages the maintenance of the 27 holes and provides regional support for LGM’s other properties.
- Cat Clark (General Manager / Director of Sales & Marketing): Cat is a driving force behind the "new" feel of the course, focusing on the social experience and community outreach.
Following this period of progress, a new chapter began with Landscapes Golf Management (LGM) in 2018, bringing fresh energy and focus to Elmwood’s modern era. Building on DGM’s foundation, LGM has grown rounds, expanded community engagement, and continued to champion youth golf. This progress is thanks to a dynamic leadership team: Area Market Manager Justin Arlt, PGA; Head Golf Professional Chad Veire, PGA; Regional Superintendent Norm Parsons; Head Superintendent Todd Zoerink; and General Manager/Director of Sales & Marketing Cat Clark. First Tee director Julie Jansa, Danny Sinksen, and more enhanced youth programs and cemented its reputation as a hub for the next generation of Sioux Falls golfers.
For nearly six decades, Elmwood’s mid-1960s clubhouse served as a steadfast gathering place for champions and dreamers—though it never truly reflected the prestige of the course. In 2026, anticipation grows as Elmwood debuts a state-of-the-art, 10,000-square-foot facility that finally gives the course a worthy centerpiece. Today, the new clubhouse serves as Sioux Falls Golf’s central hub—alive with camaraderie, celebration, and belonging, and welcoming everyone year-round. With dedicated youth spaces, a home for the South Dakota Golf Hall of Fame, and space for shared memories, it promises another century of community and excellence.
-Derek Soukup, Editor of Sioux Links
The "New" Elmwood Clubhouse Specs
- Total Size: 10,000 square feet (replacing a nearly 60-year-old building).
- Estimated Cost: $7 million (with a $1 million contribution from the First Tee and South Dakota Golf Association).
- Opening Date: Opened to the public on March 13, 2026.
- Capacity: Includes a dedicated banquet section capable of hosting 110 people for events like weddings, graduations, and tournaments.
New Amenities & Features
- Full-Service Dining: Moving beyond hot dogs, the new facility features a full restaurant (with a hired chef) and a bar/lounge area.
- First Tee Headquarters: A year-round facility for youth golf development including:
- Indoor putting green.
- Golf simulator.
- Dedicated kitchen for youth programs.
- South Dakota Golf Hall of Fame: The clubhouse is the new official home for the Hall of Fame (moved from the nearby Holiday Inn), featuring digital displays, trophies, and memorabilia.
- Outdoor "Fan-Cooled" Patio: A covered patio overlooking the 18th green equipped with outdoor TVs and specialized cooling fans for hot summer days.
- Electric Fleet Infrastructure: A new golf cart garage designed to house and charge an all-electric cart fleet from Club Car and NB Golf Cars.
- Enhanced Parking: 30 additional parking spaces were added to the grounds to accommodate the increased traffic for the restaurant and events.