Inflatable pool obstacle course at the Oak Brook Bath and Tennis Club

Changes made in 2024, including financial and facilities improvements are positioning the Oak Brook Sports Core for continued success and expansion in 2025 and beyond.

Oak Brook Golf Club

The Oak Brook Golf Club has seen a significant increase in its popularity, with rounds played rising to nearly 51,000 in 2024, a record high for the golf course. The club’s annual operating profit has soared by an impressive $500,000, providing financial means to implement long-desired improvements. “Cutting out theft and insider deals, combined with a review of existing policies and market-based pricing, unlocked substantial additional profit, allowing the Village to finally invest in new amenities that our members have long requested, including repaving of cart paths, parking lot expansion, new golf cart GPS units, and improved club landscaping,” according to Village Trustee and Sports Core Committee liaison Michael Manzo.

2024’s notable enhancements included the introduction of priority tee time access for Village residents and a partnership with a new restaurant operator, which greatly enhanced the dining experience at the club. Additionally, the installation of a new range ball machine, which allowed more convenient and faster access, generated a staggering 1.27 million golf balls dispensed for use at the driving range in only five months after its introduction.

Bath & Tennis Club

In 2024, the Village proudly welcomed a new tennis pro, Ryan Rader, who has been instrumental in expanding tennis memberships and programming. The new inflatable pool obstacle course has become a favorite attraction among children, alongside weekly scheduled activities, including themed nights and family movie nights at the pool. Village Trustee and Sports Core Committee liaison Melissa Martin noted that, “the Bath and Tennis Club is finally achieving its potential as a fun-filled family destination and represents an incredible value for our residents.”

Additionally, the poolside café, under the management of a new operator, has elevated the overall experience for members and visitors alike. These changes in 2024 have led to a remarkable 25% growth in resident membership as more people discover the club’s hidden charm and the exceptionally low resident membership fees.

Oak Brook Manor

A new partnership with Chic Chef Catering has transformed Oak Brook Manor’s financial outlook. Previously, the Village operated the banquet facility at a $200,000 annual loss and the new partnership has now turned the financials around to a $200,000 operating profit in 2024, a remarkable $400,000 improvement, with further growth anticipated in the future. Chic Chef Catering offers a diverse array of event menu options, including an extensive selection of South Asian cuisine, all prepared from scratch on-site. Oak Brook Manor can accommodate up to 175 guests for a wide variety of events, including business meetings, bridal and baby showers, and full weddings alike.

The Future Looks Bright

“While in the recent past, some units of the Sports Core fell short of covering operating expenses, the Village Board has focused on each and every sub-unit operating in an economically sustainable manner; achieving a wholesale financial turn-around that no longer strains the Village’s General Fund,” according to Village President Larry Herman.

The Oak Brook Sports Core is experiencing a period of remarkable growth as well as both amenity and financial improvements, driven by strategic partnerships and innovative programming. The positive changes are not only enhancing the experience for current members and visitors but also attracting new enthusiasts to discover all that Oak Brook has to offer. With these advancements and more planned for 2025, the Oak Brook Sports Core is well on its way to becoming a premier destination for sports and recreation in the region.

Patio Dining at Oak Brook Golf Club