It might be one of the smallest golf courses in the region, but there’s no denying that Silver Spring Golf Course hits way above its weight class in terms of fun provided for your hard-earned dollar.

The charming and historic 6-hole course, located at 3303 Pawtucket Ave. on a spit of land owned by Exxon Mobile — who maintains an active pipeline hidden underneath the picturesque site that sits along the eastern bank of the Providence River and just south of St. Mary Bay View — was brimming with smiling faces this past Saturday during a celebratory tournament held in honor of those who have supported its reinvigoration throughout the past few years.

At the forefront of the efforts to reclaim Silver Spring as a destination for golf lovers, young and old, is its club president, Lou Roccabello.

The East Providence High School graduate and current Barrington resident built a reputation as a maestro of immaculate groundskeeping. His career resume includes maintaining and revitalizing some of Rhode Island’s most treasured recreational gems, including Colt State Park in Bristol and Goddard State Park in East Greenwich. His prowess also led him to become president of the Rhode Island Golf Course Superintendent’s Association for a time.

After finally retiring, Roccabello was then recruited in 2021 to try and revitalize Silver Spring, which had fallen into disrepair prior to and during the pandemic.

“What we did was take a golf course that had nothing and we tried to refurbish it as best as we could. The equipment was broken, the grass on the greens, half of it was grass and half were spots that were just pathetic,” he said. “I just took over three years ago, and since then we’ve come back and we’re giving them what we hope are very enjoyable playing conditions.”

From the driver’s seat of a golf cart prior to the start of the tournament, Roccabello’s passion for the little course was evident as he expertly navigated the course while explaining how the course’s creatively-designed 6 holes can actually be approached and played from different tees, providing the opportunity for shorter, one-hour sessions with 6 holes, or as many as 18 holes for longer outings.

But Roccabello is perhaps most proud of the fact that Silver Spring has managed to come back to life primarily through volunteer efforts. There is only one employee on payroll, Jimmy Alden, who takes care of the grounds.
“I don’t take a dime for it. We do it with volunteers,” Roccabello said. “Our whole budget, with chemicals, water, equipment, personnel, everything, is under $100,000. A superintendent of a private club can make $150,000.”

Scott Peters, the club Vice President, said during the tournament that there’s no better bargain in golf than a membership at Silver Spring, which will run $700 for a yearly membership for the 2025 season. Non-members can also enjoy a reasonable round at $15 to walk 9 holes, $25 for 18. Seniors also get discounted rates, and veterans can play for free on Veterans Day.

“Where else can you even get close to that?” Peters offered.

Additionally, Silver Spring has become a consistent spot for young Townies looking to hone their skills, as the East Providence High School Team is given free rein to practice there at their pleasure. Townies Golf Coach, Bill McHenry, was in attendance on Saturday enjoying the occasion with a couple members of the team, along with former Townie All-State standout, Michael Wetmore.

“We’re also great for beginners,” Roccabello said, as the course encourages a novice-friendly vibe that is not always apparent on larger courses.