Cherokee Pines Fall Newsletter
October 13, 2026
The course is in great shape
If you haven't played Cherokee Pines lately, you're due. The greens and fairways are in the best condition they've been in for years, and there's a lot more waiting for you off the course too.
Here's what's changed, who's taking care of the grass, and what's coming next.
Meet our new superintendent, Lee Fillingim
Lee joined Cherokee Pines as Golf Course Superintendent in September. He's an Auburn graduate with degrees including Agronomy and Soils, spent many years as a superintendent in Georgia, and most recently worked at Anniston Country Club. He has also served in leadership roles in professional turf and golf course organizations.
If you see Lee out on the course, say hello. He's the reason the greens are rolling the way they are.
Lee Fillingim holds a B.S. in Operations Management from Auburn University and began his golf course management career at The Fields Golf Course in LaGrange, Georgia. After earning a second degree in Agronomy and Soils from Auburn, he moved to Macon, Georgia, where he became a Golf Course Superintendent. Although he once told his wife, Lagina, that they would only be in Macon for a year and a half, Macon became home for the next 18 years.
Lee and his family later relocated to Anniston, Alabama, where he held the position as Golf Course Superintendent for Anniston Country Club. Throughout his professional journey, he has been deeply involved in industry leadership—serving on the Board of Directors for the Georgia Golf Course Superintendents Association, later becoming President of the Alabama Golf Course Superintendents Association, and now preparing to serve as the incoming President of the Alabama Turfgrass Association.
Lee and Lagina have four children and two grandchildren, all of whom have played an instrumental and supportive role in his career. Time off the clock, Lee enjoys spending time with his family and playing golf—especially on the days he breaks 100.
Irrigation: from zero to 80!
A year and a half ago, not one irrigation zone on the course was automated and only a few worked at all. Today 80 of roughly 130 zones are repaired and running, with automated watering overnight so the course is ready when you tee off in the morning.
Consistent water is the foundation of healthy turf. The course now gets watered on a regular schedule every night, and you can see the difference on every hole. We're continuing to bring the remaining zones back online.
More reasons to stay after your round
- Restaurant. Grab lunch before you go out or dinner after you come in.
- New bar. A full bar right alongside the restaurant for a drink after your round.
- Members lounge. A comfortable place for members to relax before or after a round.
- Private event room. Seats 30 to 40 guests for birthdays, rehearsal dinners, and company meetings. Call (256) 927-5070 to book.
- TrackMan simulator. Practice or play in a private room, rain or shine, any time of year. (almost complete)
- Covered patio. Shade, a view of the course, and a good spot to settle bets.
New carts and a cleaner property
We've added a fleet of new golf carts. We've also hauled off 12 roll-off dumpsters of debris and old, unused buildings, which opened up the property and cleaned up the views around the course.
What's next
We're not done. There's still plenty on the list, and we'll keep you posted as each piece comes together.
New twilight rates. Tee off at 2 p.m. or later, cart included:
Twilight (2 p.m. and later)Price with cart
Weekdays | $30
Weekends | $40
In the meantime, come see the course for yourself. Book an afternoon tee time, bring a friend who hasn't been out in a while, and stay for a meal on the patio.
(256) 927-5070
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