In the world of golf, where tradition and exclusivity often reign, a new breed of club is emerging, one that challenges the status quo and redefines the very essence of the game. Enter NewClub, a revolutionary concept that has captured the imagination of golfers across the nation, and now, the Northeast Ohio region. This innovative venture, co-founded by Akron's own Matt Considine, is not just a golf club; it's a movement that seeks to democratize access to the sport, fostering a sense of community and inclusivity that transcends the boundaries of traditional country clubs.
A Visionary's Journey
Matt Considine's journey to creating NewClub began with a deep-rooted love for the game, a passion that was almost too intense for him at times. As a child, he was a 'range rat,' spending countless hours perfecting his swing. He caddied, played in tournaments, and even ran carts at prestigious clubs. However, as he entered college and his identity as a golfer began to take shape, he found himself resenting the game. It had become a chore, a source of stress rather than joy. This led him to a hiatus in Ireland, where he rediscovered the joy of golf and the sense of community it fosters.
It was during a trip to Scotland that Considine had an epiphany. He visited The New Golf Club at St. Andrews, an ancient golfing society, and was struck by the diversity of its members. This experience sparked the idea for NewClub, a club without a course, but with a vast network of partners. The goal was to create a space where golfers from all walks of life could come together, share their passion, and enjoy the game in a sustainable and inclusive manner.
The Birth of a Movement
Back in Chicago, Considine and his co-founder, Mark Colwell, began to turn this vision into reality. They launched NewClub in 2017, and within a year, it had grown to 200 members and 15 courses. The key to their success was a flat annual membership fee, making golf accessible to a broader audience. The club's app-based platform allowed members to book tee times, chat with staff and fellow members, and enjoy a sense of community that was missing in traditional clubs.
NewClub's core values, including 'inclusive, accessible, and sustainable golf,' resonated with a growing number of golfers. The surge in golf's popularity in the U.S., with 48 million players last year, has created a demand for such innovative clubs. Erik Matuszewski, editorial director at the National Golf Foundation, notes that these application-based networks and social clubs are filling a void, offering a deeper sense of community than traditional private clubs.
Northeast Ohio's Embrace
Fast forward to June 2026, and NewClub has expanded to the Akron-Canton, Cleveland, and Youngstown areas, with a Northeast Ohio chapter launched on the backs of 50 founding members. Jim Sofia, a 60-year-old from Shaker Heights, discovered NewClub on social media and was immediately drawn to its inclusive culture and diverse membership. He praised the club's ability to bring together golfers of all ages and skill levels, creating a sense of camaraderie that is often lacking in traditional clubs.
The Considine family, known for their contributions to Akron's business and community, has been instrumental in NewClub's success. Bill Considine, a former CEO of Akron Children's Hospital, and his wife, Becky, are members, and they admire their son's ability to create a club that is not driven by the dollar but by a shared passion for the game. This sense of family and community is at the heart of NewClub's appeal.
Looking Ahead
As NewClub continues to expand, with plans to open in more cities, including the Detroit area, it is clear that the club is more than just a business. It is a movement that is reshaping the golf landscape, offering a new model for clubs to follow. The Considine-Colwell duo, with their complementary skills and shared passion, has created a club that is both innovative and sustainable. It is a testament to the power of vision and the ability to see beyond the boundaries of tradition.
In my opinion, NewClub is not just a golf club; it's a catalyst for change, a force that is bringing the game of golf to a new generation. It is a club that challenges the status quo, fosters a sense of community, and makes the game more accessible and enjoyable for all. As it continues to grow and evolve, NewClub will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on the world of golf, proving that sometimes, the club without a course can be the most powerful of all.
