Great River Golf Club Named One of the Best in State

The University course earned a top spot in Golf Digest’s state ranking.

Sacred Heart University’s Great River Golf Club has earned another top recognition, adding to its already acclaimed history. Recently, Golf Digest published its annual ranking of Connecticut’s top courses and Great River ranked 14. It was one of only three public courses to earn a coveted spot on the list.

The 18-hole course, designed by legendary course architect Tom Fazio III in 1999, has become a staple in the state’s golfing heritage. The course, located on the banks of the Housatonic River in Milford, features a distinct layout as the course weaves in and out of the illustrious waterside landscape. Since 2023 the club has also hosted the annual Hartford HealthCare EPSON Tour Women's Championship, a mainstay on the LPGA tour.

Jason Loomis, executive director of administration at Great River, was incredibly thankful for the distinction received. “First, I want to thank our tremendous staff who go above and beyond to ensure that this club is successful,” Loomis said. “A spot on this list is a true honor for the club and is a testament to the diligent efforts of the Great River community.”

The awards, however, do not stop here. More recently, Great River earned the number one ranking on JourneyJunket’s top 20 best courses in Connecticut. The club was praised for its design, hospitality and experience for golfers of all levels.

JourneyJunket is an independent travel publication, dedicated to providing its readers with the highest quality travel guides, planning tools and location information.

In 2015, the course was purchased by Sacred Heart University to create a dynamic new home for its Division I men’s and women’s golf teams. The course now provides Pioneers with a comprehensive collegiate athletic experience, featuring coaching facilities, indoor training spaces and a dedicated staff of golf instructors.

Additionally, the club now offers discounted rates for University students, staff, alumni and faculty. The club is located just 11 miles from SHU’s Park Avenue Campus and also sports a 32,000-square-foot clubhouse known for hosting spectacular events and weddings.

The club also plays host to the annual Pioneer Open, a golf tournament that brings together alumni, family members and community partners to support student success at the University. This year’s tournament, the 36th edition, was held on Monday, June 9.