In 1994, while playing golf as a guest at Rolling Hills Country Club in an American Cancer Society fundraiser, Maurice “Buzz” Thropp did something he had never done before and hasn't done since. He recorded a hole-in-one.

But this wasn’t any regular ace as his sweet six-iron on the 152-yard par 3 netted him a special prize. A brand-new Jeep Grand Cherokee. Needless to say, he fell in love with the course, joining shortly thereafter.

A couple of months ago, Thropp was named president of the club, a fitting choice as he has spent nine years on the board and beams when he talks about the facility.

“I love this club,” said Thropp. “I’ve played a lot of places and I can honestly say this is one of the most user-friendly golf clubs around. There aren’'t any cliques, it's family oriented and it’s easy to find a game.”

The 195-acre facility is aptly named, as its rolling fairways and constant undulation highlight a course that will challenge every facet of a player’s arsenal. The course also boasts fast, silky greens that are well-guarded by an arra of hazards.

The club opened in 1947 and for slightly more than two decades was known as Mt. Lebanon Golf Club. In 1968, the facility was formally opened as Rolling Hills Country Club. Over the years, the membership has enjoyed steady growth, and currently 427 members enjoy the benefits of the club, which includes a variety of golf options, including ladies and youth programs, a pool, tennis courts, a driving range, a mixed grill, a men’s grill and a ballroom.

“We also offer an intermediate membership for people under 40,” said Michelle Glod, membership coordinator. "It offers the same
privileges at a discounted rate.”

There’s a lot to be proud of at the club, but Thropp is particularly fond of the S.W.A.T. programs available, which is an acronym for Single Without A Team. It’s a way for players who don’t have a partner to play in a group in a fun, competitive setting.

“It’s a great way to get a game on short notice and helps you meet other members,” he said. The S.W.A.T. program plays Saturday and Sunday mornings, as well as Wednesday and Friday afternoons.

“Anywhere from 20 to 40 people show up to play in it. It’s flourishing here and I think that says something about our members. We make people feel welcome here.”

While the demands on a club president are great, Thropp feels he has gotten much from the course and wants to continue helping it move in a positive direction.

“Craig Komatz, our manager, and John Rech, the pro here, really make this a special place. They go out of their way to make you feel welcome.

For more information about membership to Rolling Hills Country Club, please contact Michelle at 724-941-6123.