As the project manager for American Golf, Inc., Richard Stoffel is breaking ground for a golf renaissance by strategizing and overseeing the revitalization of golf clubs and facilities nationwide. He’s also helping to transform the world of driving ranges and miniature golf into entertainment opportunities that go well beyond drivers and putters, and ushering in a new golf experience for golf aficionados across the country.  

Stoffel has had a very successful career in construction management for more than three decades, first in multifamily and then in commercial construction. He explains, “I grew up around golf with my father, who was a semi-professional golfer and my mother a recreational golfer.  Combining golf with my construction management career was a natural fit for me.” 

American Golf manages, owns and operates more than 50 golf clubs nationwide and Stoffel travels coast to coast regularly as its sole project manager. “Many clubs we manage for municipalities and private owners are in great need of renovation and modernization,” he says. “Golf is a very old sport — six centuries old. We are updating these clubs to make them relevant and attractive to new generations.”

“There’s incredible potential for golf-centered entertainment that draws all demographics for a dynamic social experience.” — Richard Stoffel, Construction Project Manager

Also under American Golf’s umbrella are Drive Shack and Puttery, two divisions focused on multilevel driving ranges and miniature golf as entertainment venues with dining, wine and spirits and more. “There’s incredible potential for golf-centered entertainment that draws all demographics for a dynamic social experience,” says Stoffel. 

Originally from Sacramento, Stoffel is pleased to be back in the region after more than a decade. His positive outlook, a business day that starts at 5:30 a.m. and commitment to working with clients in person has led to much success. Stoffel’s education and knowledge in business, law, architecture and design serve him well, as he enhances the golfing experience to both capture and recapture golfers of all ages. “Common sense is my strongest suit,” adds Stoffel. “Golfers today not only wish to golf, but desire entertainment, music and a club that engages the family as well.”  

With more than 20 projects currently underway across the country, Stoffel’s latest geographical area of focus will be the Northern California market. His vision includes the company’s growth of 10 to 20 golf clubs per year. “The wise golf club ownership understands that the clubs of yesteryear, with chandeliers and brocade wallpaper, are behind them,” notes Stoffel.  

He concludes, “I truly enjoy this environment with all its challenges and rewards. I can walk into a venue, diagnose the challenges of the club and lead them into the 21st century. “We’ve already achieved some amazing things and will continue this successful track we’re on
for many years to come.”