Today we’d like to introduce you to TJ Brogan.
Hi TJ, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I’ve spent the last eight years running small businesses in Austin, and by mid-2025 I found myself stepping back into more of a part-time role — which meant it was time to start thinking about what was next.
Growing up in Michigan, golf simulators were just part of winter life. Austin doesn’t have that problem, but it has its own: brutal summer heat, early sunsets in winter, and municipal courses that are nearly impossible to get on. The demand felt obvious.
What wasn’t obvious was why every simulator concept looked the same. After digging into the market, I kept finding spaces that felt generic — more like a sports bar than somewhere you’d actually want to spend time. I thought we could do it better: build something with a real club feel, done in a way that’s distinctly Austin.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Starting any business has its challenges — and one that requires building out a physical space has a few extra layers. Finding the right location took time. I knew I didn’t want a generic strip mall storefront; I wanted a building with real character, and that’s not something you stumble into overnight.
Once we found it, the real work began: designing and building out the space, developing the brand, and figuring out the model — how to market it, how to run it, how to make it actually work. The playbook isn’t always clear but solving all the small problems that come along with a new venture is something I enjoy.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Swingville Golf Club?
Swingville feels more like the clubhouse and less like a training facility.
With 4 premium Trackman® tech in each bay, 24/7 access, personal lockers, and a vintage atmosphere, it’s built for golf and designed for the hang.
Make it your spot to work on the swing or the next plan for the group chat. No gimmicks, no pressure. Just a place for you and your friends to swing away.
Swingville is membership only club which is much different than your typical simulator business who often offers memberships but then also allows non members to come use the space.
What I’m most proud of is the culture we’ve already created in the space. Nothing makes me more happy than hearing members get to know each other inside the space and seeing that transition to hang outside of Swingville. Community building is at the center of what we want to create.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
Ask your customers what would make their experience better and try to execute on realistic feedback.
Pricing:
- Two membership options: $265/month
- 340/month
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.swingvillegolf.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swingvillegolf/
