Trout National – The Reserve, a world-class private golf and destination club collaboration between Mike Trout, the three-time American League MVP and 10-time Major League Baseball All-Star, and local partner and businessman John Ruga, appoints David Altemus PGA, CCM as General Manager and Chief Operating Officer. In his role, Altemus will oversee operations and an elevated hospitality program, offering members luxury experiences at the southern New Jersey club, which is set to complete construction of all 18 holes in September 2024 and officially open in Spring 2026.
Altemus comes to Trout National after a highly acclaimed 25-year tenure with Royal Oaks Country Club in Houston, Texas. Starting as the Head Golf Professional, he earned promotions to Director of Golf and eventually to General Manager and Chief Operating Officer. Under his leadership, the team at Royal Oaks garnered numerous awards for excellence in golf operations. He also received multiple individual recognitions, including Golf Professional of the Year and Merchandiser of the Year.
“David has demonstrated success at every level of the private club industry,” said Trout. “He possesses exceptional leadership skills and an unwavering commitment to excellence that will ensure Trout National is a one-of-a-kind experience for members and their guests.”
“Joining the Trout National team is a true privilege,” said Altemus. “When Mike and John shared their vision of creating this destination club with a Tiger Woods-designed golf course as its centerpiece, I knew this would be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
Joining Altemus, LeslieAnne Wade will serve as the club’s Membership Executive, bringing more than 25 years of golf and business experience. In 17 years at CBS Sports, she served on the Chairman’s senior leadership team and became the sports division’s first female Vice President and Senior Vice President, which led to her being recognized as Woman of the Year by Women in Sports and Events (WISE). Throughout her career, Wade has worked with golf’s biggest stars, including several major champions, as well as business leaders and broadcasters.
“LeslieAnne is a sports trailblazer with tremendous relationships across the golf industry,” said Trout. “Adding someone of her caliber to our team will continue to raise the bar at Trout National.”
“Trout National’s combination of world-class golf and unparalleled experiences will set it apart from every other private club,” added Wade. “I am happy to curate connections and collaborate on the creation of this special membership program.”
Crafted by Tiger Woods’ TGR Design, the championship 18-hole golf course is routed through two unique natural landscapes that give Trout National its distinct character. Large and undulating greens with low-cut surrounds emphasize the challenging, yet fun layout where risk-reward opportunities create the ideal environment. In addition, the club will feature a wide array of innovative amenities, including a lighted short course, expansive putting course, as well as a world-class performance enter and practice facilities. Other club highlights include a state-of-the-art clubhouse, five-star lodging and more.
Located in Vineland, Trout National- The Reserve will feature an 18-hole championship course by Tiger Woods’ TGR Design, a trendsetting clubhouse by Marsh & Associates, five-star lodging, and much more. The destination club will offer an exclusive and awe inspiring on- and off-course experience that is personalized to members and distinguished by an unwavering commitment to meticulous detail, luxurious comfort and competitive fun.
