Company Founding and Origins
The Back Nine was founded by Wil Bangerter and two friends, who discovered their passion for golf as adults despite busy schedules and unpredictable weather making regular play difficult. Bangerter, a lawyer-turned-entrepreneur, left his legal career to pursue this venture full-time. The concept emerged from a simple idea: create an indoor, simulator-powered venue where golfers could play world-class courses anytime.
What began as a way to cover costs quickly evolved into a profitable business model as memberships grew. The company secured private equity investment after the network expanded past 25 locations, with Bangerter retaining majority ownership whilst gaining resources to accelerate growth.
Mission and Core Values
The Back Nine's mission centres on creating a dynamic golf community where golfers and franchisees succeed both on and off the course. The company is dedicated to providing opportunities for players of all levels, from seasoned professionals to newcomers discovering the sport.
The organisation operates on five core values:
- Show Integrity: Leading with transparency and building trust
- Be Kind: Treating all people with respect and humanity
- Be Resilient: Facing challenges with focus and adaptability
- Take Ownership: Taking pride in proactive problem-solving
- Live for Golf: Understanding golf's history whilst breaking down traditional barriers
Business Approach and Growth The Back Nine positions itself as "the fastest-growing name in indoor golf", offering 24/7 access to world-class technology in modern, welcoming environments. The company uses Full Swing simulators exclusively - the same technology trusted by Tiger Woods - and operates as Full Swing's largest commercial retail partner worldwide.
The business model focuses on complementing rather than replacing traditional golf courses, providing a climate-controlled, year-round venue for skill development and access to world-famous courses. Since opening its first franchise in early 2025, the company has sold over 300 franchises with nearly 100 locations open across the U.S. and is expanding internationally into Australia, the UK, and Canada with plans for 100+ Australian franchises over the next decade.
Current Market Position
The company operates in the rapidly growing indoor golf and simulator facilities sector, targeting a market where Australian households spend an estimated $10.3 billion annually on golf-related activities. The Back Nine's brand messaging centres around "Where Golf Never Sleeps," positioning the facilities as places where passion for golf continues beyond traditional courses.
