The Communi-Tee Golf Classic supported Lakewood Ranch Community Activities. Photo by Dylan Campbell.

On a hot September day, where the sun shined down with a certain relentless quality, over 100 golfers gathered at Calusa Country Club in Lakewood Ranch. The sprawling property, a golf course community built by Lennar, opened in early 2025 and features two courses designed by renowned architect Gordan Lewis—an 18-hole championship course and an auxiliary 12-hole course.

The sun, however, was not a deterrent for the golfers participating in the second annual Communi-Tee Golf Classic on September 9, a fundraiser supporting Lakewood Ranch Community Activities (LWRCA). The nonprofit organization is responsible for curating and producing all types of events and resident-led clubs for those that live in Lakewood Ranch, helping to create connections in the master-planned community.

“Last year was our first year, and we did this to celebrate our 25 year anniversary as a nonprofit in Lakewood Ranch,” says Danielle Bugel, marketing manager for LWRCA. “Our organization was created to bring residents together and create a fun lifestyle by all we do with the parks and recreation programming, community events and clubs that people can be a part of. We are hosting this tournament as a fundraiser to help us give back to residents through our events.”

For businesses, the Communi-Tee Classic was a chance to promote their wares to area residents, with sponsorship opportunities at each hole. For the players, the tournament offered the opportunity to play on an emerging golf course. Long, undulating Bimini bermuda grass fairways, pockmarked with expansive white sand bunkers made for an approachable, yet challenging venue.

The Communi-Tee Classic was open to all that wanted to participate, regardless of handicap. Golfers played in teams of four, competing in a “best-ball” scramble format. The tournament featured on-course contests such as longest drive, closest to the pin and hole-in-one, in addition to prizes for the top finishers. “The first place finishers all get medals and a free foursome to come back and play here. The second place winners get $50 each to spend at the pro shop and third place all receive a $25 gift card to GROVE in Lakewood Ranch,” says Bugel.

Calusa Country Club, 5667 Calusa Golf Blvd, Lakewood Ranch

The Communi-Tee Golf Classic supported Lakewood Ranch Community Activities. Photo by Dylan Campbell.

To learn more click here