As many of the golf members know, EJ McDonnell is the esteemed Director of Golf Operations. With a remarkable 25 years of service at Bonita Bay Club, we would like to shine a spotlight on EJ and his journey to getting where he is now.

A Journey Begins
EJ’s story began in November 1999 when he first started working in Outside Operations at Bonita Bay Club. He had previously worked as the 1st Assistant at two public golf courses, both new facilities and still under construction when he started. When a friend mentioned BBC was hiring, he knew how well the Club was respected in the area and that he had to take the opportunity. While working in Outside Operations he continued playing in mini-tours for several years with some success, including two victories.
With the help of a member urging EJ to go through the PGA Program, he did so at an accelerated pace and moved into a role in Inside Operations. Here he organized all the Club’s major golf events before being promoted to 1st Assistant. In 2009, a year before the turnover to a member-owned club, EJ was promoted to Head Professional at the West Facility. When the position of Director of Golf became available in early 2014, he was a candidate along with the national search. EJ was offered the position of Director of Golf in the spring of 2014.

“Being named the Director of Golf at Bonita Bay Club is certainly the highlight of my professional career,” EJ.

EJ’s Early Life
While EJ was raised in an urban area, he spent a lot of time with his grandparents in rural Iowa where he enjoyed playing sports and being outdoors. There, he earned the honor of being an All-State basketball player before he found himself learning golf at a local municipal course with a shag range.

EJ was first introduced to golf by a cousin who invited him to hit some balls off the hill at school. At first, he was not interested in a sport like golf because basketball, baseball and football were his thing. However, after some convincing, he went and was able to launch a few nine irons way past his cousin’s, laughing at him the whole time about how easy it was. After he started topping it, a few shanks, etc. he realized how difficult the game really is and was hooked. EJ and his friends took to creating “golf courses” with their lawnmowers in a large open field nearby.

“The golf gods taught me a lesson!” EJ.

EJ at World Long Drive Championship

Daily Life at Bonita Bay Club
Part of what has kept EJ rooted at BBC is knowing that when he wakes up in the morning the day’s work will be different than the day before. His main duty is to ensure the members have an exceptional experience on a daily basis. This entails providing support to the Golf Operations Team when they need it and ensuring they are striving to get better every day. It is important to EJ that he is visible to both the Members and staff, so he manages his time to be in the office and have in-person interactions with Members.

“I can always do some office work at home in the evening, but I strive to be available as much as possible while at the Club,” EJ.

Throughout his time at BBC, EJ has seen how the Club has changed. From the infrastructure and golf course changes since the membership took over to how we use technology. These technologies have changed how events are organized and conducted and has advanced golf instruction.

“I remember when Members would line up at the Golf Shop door before 7:00 a.m. to turn in tournament entry slips,” EJ.

While each day has separate challenges, the Golf Team is always looking for new ways to improve the operation and member experience. This is done with constant communication and continually challenging each other to come up with new ideas.

A Personal Touch
When he is not at the Club, EJ enjoys grilling in the evenings and has recently started learning how to use a griddle. Some of his favorite accomplishments are being recognized by the SWFL PGA as Golf Professional of the Year, Assistant of the Year, awarded the Bill Strausbaugh (dedication to mentoring fellow professionals and community involvement), and Merchandiser of the Year, which of course was an award for the entire professional staff. He has also made three hole-in-ones, all in tournaments, including one on a par four.

Looking Ahead
As Bonita Bay Club continues to grow and adapt, EJ remains a steadfast leader, ensuring that the spirit of golf and community thrives. His dedication to excellence and passion for the game enriches the experience of every Member. When asked what makes BBC a special place to him, EJ answered “It is the enjoyment I get from interacting with the membership and staff daily.”