The field of 264 players competing in the 76th U.S. Junior Amateur will tee off Monday surrounded by steel beams of Oakland Hills Country Club's future clubhouse.
The Club’s "Next 100 Project" has briefly paused to host the USGA championship, featuring the world’s best players under 19. The project includes the development of a new world-class clubhouse for members and guests.
The clubhouse’s steel framework was topped out during a July 9 ceremony attended by members and contractors. "It’s truly a spectacular feat by the team," said Club Second Vice President Mark Bowman, regarding the progress made since breaking ground in late December 2023.
Bowman praised the tireless collaboration between contractors, staff, and member-run committees. "Our hopes and excitement have been raised," he told attendees. Construction of the clubhouse is on schedule, with a anticipated opening in the first half of 2026.
Ahead of the Championship, the Club released an updated rendering illustrating a view up the South Course’s 18th hole, which has crowned numerous champions, including Cyril Walker in the 1924 U.S. Open.
"We look forward to seeing many of the competitors in this year’s U.S. Junior Amateur walk the hallways of our future clubhouse when the U.S. Open returns in 2034," said Club President K. Dino Kostopoulos.
Players and fans will experience minimal disruption from ongoing construction while on the grounds. The Club’s interim golf shop will be open to the public throughout the week, and a central concession area will be available along the South Course #1 fairway. The 1918 Pavilion (the club’s temporary member dining facility), will be reserved for player dining.
Iconic Architecture Restored
The Club’s member-run design committee prioritized the original design of celebrated architect C. Howard Crane for the clubhouse exterior. Restoring the grand pillared verandah, original roofline, and expansive views from dining areas were key focus areas. When completed, the front of the clubhouse will once again be three steps away from one of golf’s most iconic Championship venues.
Inside, Oakland Hills’ rich heritage, which includes eleven USGA championships, three PGA Championships, the Ryder Cup matches, the Western Open, and many Hall of Fame champions, will be proudly displayed throughout the new clubhouse. Additional displays will commemorate eight more USGA championships, starting with this week’s U.S. Junior Amateur and continuing through the 2051 U.S. Open.
About the U.S. Junior Amateur
The U.S. Junior Amateur is open to the public from Monday, July 22, through Saturday, July 27. The ticketless Championship is free to attend, with parking provided at fan lots located in Southfield and Bloomfield Township. Additional fan information regarding the U.S. Junior Amateur is available on the Oakland Hills website at oaklandhillscc.com/spectatorinfo and usga.org/junioram
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