The Green Valley Golf Group, based in McDonough, Georgia, is a family-owned and operated company led by brothers Jon and Jason Schwendinger. Their leadership continues a legacy that began with their father, Gerald Schwendinger, who purchased the company’s first course in the mid-1980s. What started as a single investment has since grown into a thriving network of courses rooted in both tradition and community.
Growing up, Jon and Jason spent much of their time working on their father’s golf course. Those early experiences instilled in them not only a passion for the game but also a deep appreciation for the role a golf course can play in people’s lives. Over time, that passion evolved into a shared commitment to carrying forward their father’s vision while expanding it to reflect their own values. Today, that vision is centered not just on golf, but on creating welcoming spaces where the broader community feels invited and included.
Under their leadership, initiatives like Community Day on the Green have been introduced to encourage new visitors to step onto the course in a relaxed, approachable way. These events reflect a larger goal: to remove the intimidation often associated with golf and replace it with connection, curiosity, and fun.
Green Valley Golf Group now consists of five 18-hole courses: Crystal Lake, Georgia National, Heron Bay, The Providence Club, and River Forest. Each course offers its own unique layout, level of difficulty, and amenities, from scenic lake views to meticulously maintained greens.
Despite their differences, all five courses operate under a shared standard: delivering an exceptional member experience. That experience, however, is not one-size-fits-all. Each property brings its own personality and offerings to the table. At Georgia National, for example, the calendar extends beyond tee times and tournaments to include social and wellness-focused events such as Yoga on the Green, meditation sessions, and fitness classes. Crystal Lake, on the other hand, has become a hub for large-scale tournaments and competitive play.
At its core, Green Valley Golf Group aims to offer more than just a round of golf. The courses are designed as gathering places, spaces where people can connect, build relationships, and create lasting memories. For many members, what begins as a recreational activity quickly becomes something more meaningful. The courses serve as venues not only for play, but also for dining, events, and everyday social interaction.
Membership provides access to all five courses, which operate as semi-private clubs. This model allows members to enjoy exclusive benefits while still welcoming guests and visitors. As a result, it’s common to see both local members and out-of-town guests sharing the same spaces, further enhancing the sense of community.
This sense of connection extends beyond the greens themselves. Neighborhoods surrounding the courses include hundreds of homes, reinforcing the idea that these spaces are woven into the fabric of daily life. It’s not uncommon for members to describe the environment as family-oriented, where familiar faces and welcoming attitudes are part of the experience.
Recognizing that golf can feel intimidating to newcomers, Green Valley has made a deliberate effort to create entry points for beginners. Events like Community Day on the Green are designed specifically for those who may be picking up a club for the first time. These gatherings emphasize a relaxed, supportive atmosphere, where experienced players mingle with beginners, offering tips, encouragement, and camaraderie.
In recent years, the demographic of golfers at Green Valley has evolved. The group has seen a notable increase in the number of families, young professionals, and women participating in the sport. While men’s golf associations have long been a staple, new opportunities have emerged to support a more diverse range of players, including the formation of women’s golf groups. This shift reflects a broader trend in the industry, as golf becomes more inclusive and accessible to a wider audience.
For those still hesitant about stepping onto the course, it’s worth remembering that golf is about more than the game itself. It’s an experience – one that offers a chance to unplug, spend time outdoors, and connect with others. Whether approached as a therapeutic escape or a social outing, a day on the greens can be as rewarding as it is enjoyable. For those interested in becoming members, visit their website at greenvalleygolfgroup.com to submit an inquiry.
It’s an experience – one that offers a chance to unplug, spend time outdoors, and connect with others.