West Bluemound Road in Brookfield, Wisconsin, solidifies its status as a prime destination for golf practice with the impending opening of Atlas Golf and Performance Center. Owner Jeb Vachuska, formerly a pro at Wanaki Golf Course, plans to launch the facility at 17445 W. Bluemound Road, Suite 200, by Friday, pending a final fire department inspection. This addition intensifies the corridor's concentration of indoor hitting bays, outdoor ranges, club fittings, and lessons already offered by nearby outlets like PGA Tour Superstore, Golf Galaxy, Storm’s Golf Range, Club Champion, and GolfTEC.
Members-Only Access Sets Atlas Apart
Atlas distinguishes itself through a members-only model unprecedented in the area, featuring seven Trackman bays for practice and one dedicated bay for teaching and club fitting. Members gain 24-hour access, enabling late-night or early-morning sessions without restrictions. Vachuska explained that until all memberships sell out, three bays remain open to the public from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., bookable by anyone, while the remaining bays operate around the clock for members only.
The facility also includes a 1,000-square-foot chipping and putting area, with local instructors welcome to book space for lessons. Vachuska emphasized flexibility, stating he has discussed arrangements with several teachers and will prioritize options that best serve members. This setup caters to dedicated practitioners seeking convenience and exclusivity amid growing demand for year-round, technology-driven practice spaces in regions with harsh winters.
Drive, Chip and Putt Evolves with Pace Rules
Online registration opened for 2026-27 Drive, Chip and Putt qualifying, a free program for boys and girls ages 7-15 run by the Masters, USGA, and PGA of America. Local events start May 2 at 353 nationwide sites, advancing top performers through subregional, regional, and national stages, culminating April 4, 2027, at Augusta National before the Masters. Whistling Straits hosts a regional qualifier on Sept. 12, while Wisconsin's Hallie Fisch of Suamico competes in the Girls 12-13 national finals this April as the state's sole representative.
Organizers introduced a pace-of-play bonus at nationals: competitors earn half a point per shot completed in 40 seconds or less, up to three points for all six shots (two drives, two chips, two putts). This addresses observed delays, such as AimPoint green-reading methods noted by Masters Chairman Fred Ridley, who last year predicted time limits. The change underscores golf's emphasis on efficient execution, potentially influencing junior development amid broader efforts to shorten rounds and broaden appeal.
Pro Connections and Market Buzz
Former Marquette University golfers Hunter Eichhorn and Tyler Leach, now Korn Ferry Tour members, drew attention by pairing for the third round in consecutive events, including The Panama Championship where both made the cut alongside Cole Sherwood. University of Wisconsin's Sam Anderson tied for 11th there. Meanwhile, Wisconsin pros Mick Smith and Jamie Christiansen placed 11th in the PGA Senior-Junior Team event in Florida, posting 21-under par.
Other notes include Eric Popovich and Michael Grossman launching Performance Golf Academy at Pin High Golf Center in Mequon after Popovich's long pursuit of PGA Class A membership; strong TV ratings for The American Express amid weather disruptions and Scottie Scheffler's debut; Phil Mickelson's announced absence from early LIV Golf events due to family matters; and eBay listings like etched Masters tumblers starting at $10. These developments highlight sustained local and professional interest in golf infrastructure and participation.
