Mulligan’s: Family, Fun and Community
Nestled in the heart of Harrisonburg, just off Route 11, Mulligan’s Golf Center is more than just a driving range — it’s a hub for community, a space where golf meets friendship, and a testament to the visionary determination of two remarkable women. Co-owned by Nancy White, a former LPGA professional and lifelong athlete, and Wendy Kern, a dedicated teaching pro, Mulligan’s has become the Shenandoah Valley’s premier golf facility. With a state-of-the-art range, a full-service pro shop, miniature golf and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s a place where both beginners and seasoned golfers can find joy in the game. But the real magic of Mulligan’s lies in the people behind it.
Nancy White: From Speed Skating to the LPGA
Before Nancy White became the power-house behind Mulligan’s, she was a fierce competitor on the ice. Growing up in Canada, she first made a name for herself as a speed skater. Her athleticism and drive eventually led her to golf, a sport where her strength and determination found a new home.
She pursued a professional career, competing on the LPGA Tour, placing in the top 10 multiple times, and even golfing alongside the legendary Mo Norman.
Life on the LPGA Tour was a tight-knit experience. “Back then, we didn’t have entourages or sports psychologists — we had CB radios and a caravan of cars, driving from tournament to tournament,
figuring things out as we went,” Nancy recalls. The game was just as competitive as it is today, but far less structured.
After her playing career, Nancy sought a place to build something lasting. “This place started as a run-down golf range and an old farmstead at the end of a dirt road. But I saw something in it — potential, just like in a good golf swing. It just needed the right kind of work,” she says. That neglected piece of land, once home to an aging red-brick farmhouse, became the foundation for Mulligan’s Golf Center. Through years of dedication, she transformed it into a top-tier facility, incorporating cutting-edge technology and an environment where golfers of all levels feel welcome.
Despite her personal achievements, Nancy remains private, redirecting the spotlight to her staff and customers. This humility, her decades of success and her commitment to service have made Mulligan’s a trusted place for golfers looking for the right clubs, expert fittings, and a warm sense of community.
Wendy Kern: The Teacher Who Builds Confidence through Golf
If Nancy built the foundation of Mulligan’s, Wendy Kern is its glowing hearth. A co-owner and LPGA teaching professional, Wendy has an undeniable passion for coaching and watching her students grow in skill and confidence. As a former JMU golf captain and a talented golfer to this day, she has yet to beat Nancy in a round —something she laughs about with genuine admiration. The duo’s partnership embodies mutual respect.
Wendy’s love for teaching is evident in the way she works with beginners, especially young girls just finding their way in the sport. “Golf can be intimidating, especially for kids and women just starting out. My job is to make sure they feel welcome, to show them that they belong here just as much as anyone else,” she says.
She believes golf is more than a game — it’s a tool for building self-assurance, resilience and community. Through specialized lessons, programs and activities like attending the Solheim Cup (see p. 44), she ensures that every student, regardless of experience, feels empowered.
Her dedication extends beyond lessons; Wendy fosters an environment where golfers form lasting friendships. The driving range isn’t just a place to hit balls — it’s a space to practice, pretend you’re playing a famous course and engage in friendly competition. Mulligan’s setup encourages interaction, with natural grass areas lending themselves to spontaneous conversations and camaraderie.
The Mulligan’s Experience: More Than Just a Driving Range
Mulligan’s Golf Center is more than a place to work on your swing — it’s an experience. Whether you’re there for the high-tech range with individual monitors, the Smash Factory’s private and climate-controlled practice bays, or the laid-back vibe of Grilligans, the Center offers something for everyone. The facility blends the best of golf’s traditions with modern advancements, making it an ideal spot
for families, serious golfers and those just looking for a fun outing.
Beyond technology and amenities, it’s the sense of belonging that keeps people coming back. The staff — Nancy, Wendy and friendly faces like Alex and the Mulligan’s team — take the time to make everyone feel at home. “This isn’t just a driving range — it’s a place where people come to connect, to relax, to enjoy the game without pressure. That’s what golf should be about,” Nancy explains. Customers aren’t just players; they’re part of the Mulligan’s family.
The Future of Golf at Mulligan’s
With Nancy and Wendy at the helm, Mulligan’s continues to evolve. They see technology playing an increasing role in the game, from mobile app-driven ball dispensers to advanced tracking metrics that help players fine-tune their swings. “We’re always looking ahead, whether it’s new technology, new ways to teach or new ways to make people feel at home here. Golf is evolving and so are we,” Wendy says. They also believe in growing the game by making it more accessible to younger players and new audiences.
Whether you’re looking to improve your game, introduce a friend to golf or just enjoy a welcoming community atmosphere, Mulligan’s delivers.
