Golf simulator business X-golf is headed for Rockford. Here's what you need to know

Matt Trowbridge, Rockford Register Star
·2 min read
X-Golf will be opening in Rockford this summer. The company has franchises in 32 states, including this one that opened this year in Wes Des Moines, Iowa, where teams are shown playing in a league on April 17, 2023.
X-Golf will be opening in Rockford this summer. The company has franchises in 32 states, including this one that opened this year in Wes Des Moines, Iowa, where teams are shown playing in a league on April 17, 2023.

When Rockford’s weather is bad — as it has been much of this spring — you can still golf with your friends on a simulator.

Soon, you'll be able to enjoy Rockford's newest golf simulator business, X-Golf.

Here is what you need to know about the new indoor facility:

Who founded X-Golf?

Two brothers from Australia founded X-Golf in 2005 but the store did not become a franchise until 2016. Seven years later, X-Golf has stores in 32 states.

When does the Rockford location?

The business will open sometime between late July and late August in the old Art Van Furniture building at 7047 Newburg Road near CherryVale Mall.

More: New golf simulator business opens this week in the Rockford area. What players can expect

Is X-Golf new to Illinois?

No. There are 12 other X-Golf stores in Illinois, including Sterling, Schaumburg and Naperville. When Rockford's facility opens, Illinois will tie Wisconsin for the most X-Golf franchises with 13.

What will X-Golf offer?

The simulators will have more than 50 golf courses to choose from. They will also have practice modes and training modes. X-Golf will have a PGA pro on staff and offer lessons and golf clinics. There will also be a full bar and restaurant.

How big is it?

The building is 50,000 square feet. The golf simulator part of it will be 9,000 square feet.

How much will it cost?

Exact prices are not set yet, but should fluctuate between $30 and $60 an hour based on the time of day. Charges are per simulator, not per person. Up to six people can share a simulator.

Can I compete against others?

Yes. X-Golf will set up various tournaments, both for individuals and team scrambles, often timed to run the same time as major golf events such as The Masters. It will also offer a variety of golf leagues, both private leagues and X Leagues that anyone can join. Players can sign up at playxgolf.com or at the Rockford store's Facebook page or Instagram or Yelp.

What can I win in an X-Golf tournament?

Prizes will include golf trips and meeting X-Golf spokespeople such as Paige Spiranac.

The former Art Van Furniture store at 7047 Newburg Road, pictured on April 30, 2023, will be converted into an X-Golf franchise.
The former Art Van Furniture store at 7047 Newburg Road, pictured on April 30, 2023, will be converted into an X-Golf franchise.

Contact: mtrowbridge@rrstar.com, @matttrowbridge or 815-987-1383. Matt Trowbridge has covered sports for the Rockford Register Star for over 30 years, after previous stints in North Dakota, Delaware, Vermont and Iowa City.

This article originally appeared on Rockford Register Star: X-Golf opening golf simulator business in Rockford Illinois in 2023