Blonski may have never officially lived in Manhattan Beach, but you’d never know it—he’s always felt like one of the crew. Whether it’s the laid-back vibe, the golf talk, or just his natural ability to fit in, Blonski has always had that 'local' energy, even from the other side of the country.
Every year, he makes the trek all the way from Detroit to join the crew, proving that distance is no match for his dedication to the game and the good times that come with it. He's the kind of guy who makes every trip feel like home, from the first tee to the last drink at the 19th hole. Whether he’s crushing it on the course or just making everyone laugh, Blonski is the kind of guy who brings the perfect mix of heart and humor to every round.
Brett recently joined the prestigious ranks of fatherhood, welcoming his first daughter and earning himself a lifetime supply of dad jokes, sleepless nights, and the occasional spit-up on his golf polo. After years of playing musical zip codes across the country, he’s finally planted roots in Orange County. But don’t let the newfound stability fool you—Brett still radiates that ‘ready to pack up and roll’ energy, making him the ultimate down-for-whatever guy. Whether it’s a last-minute tee time or an in-depth discussion about the best diaper brands, Brett’s always game.
When he’s not chasing birdies or trying to catch a few Z’s between late-night feedings, Brett proudly dons his Clemson orange. A die-hard Tigers fan, he’s been known to sneak in a few game highlights between holes—or remind everyone of their latest big win. On the course, Brett’s laid-back vibe is as consistent as his swing (well, almost). He’s here to have a good time, crack a few jokes, and maybe even sneak in some quiet time disguised as ‘working on his short game.’ With Brett around, every round is guaranteed to be a fun one—dad humor and all.
Ryan is a committed father and talented golfer with a deep passion for life. As the former leader of the fastest-growing golf simulator restaurant concept, Ryan’s innovative mindset and love for the sport have left a lasting impact on both the golf and business worlds.
Ryan’s first trip was marked by an infamous sleeping arrangement mishap that may have initially given him pause about becoming a regular. However, those days seem firmly behind us. With more time on his hands and a renewed commitment to the group, Ryan made a statement in 2024 by captaining the winning team in Ojai, solidifying his reputation as a leader and fierce competitor. Whether he’s coordinating matchups, sinking clutch putts, or bringing energy to the crew, Ryan’s presence elevates every trip, making him an indispensable part of the experience.
Drew is hands down the best golfer in the group, boasting a personal best of 74—a score the rest of the crew can only dream of. But don’t let his impressive game fool you—Drew is anything but serious. Known for cracking jokes mid-swing and turning even the most competitive rounds into comedy hours, he’s the ultimate blend of skill and silliness.
Drew approaches life with the same laid-back energy he brings to the course. When he’s not lining up birdie putts or nailing impossible approach shots, he’s all about "relaxing" and enjoying the moment. Let’s just say Drew has a creative approach to unwinding that makes every hangout a little more... colorful.
Whether he’s lighting up the scorecard or lighting up the mood, Drew’s the kind of guy who keeps the game—and the group—fun and unpredictable. His motto? "Low scores, high vibes."
Fred is the mastermind behind our golf trips, balancing spreadsheets and tee times like a pro—after his three little girls are tucked in, of course. While most of us are working on our swings, Fred is working on detailed itineraries, ensuring every meal, tee time, and laugh is perfectly scheduled. He spends so much time planning these trips, we’re starting to wonder if he even remembers how to swing a club.
Fred’s biggest pre-trip challenge? Avoiding injury. Whether it’s a basketball game gone wrong or a random mishap while tying his shoes, Fred’s track record for self-inflicted downtime is legendary. His goal every year is the same: make it to the first tee in one piece. So far, he’s undefeated... barely.
While his swing might not see as much action as his Google Docs, Fred’s dedication keeps the trip running smoother than his jump shot. Without him, we’d be lost—literally. Thanks to Fred’s hard work and his determination to stay upright, all we have to worry about is our golf game (and maybe beating him, if he’s still standing).
Jordan’s love for golf runs deep. A passionate golfer who plays for the pure joy of the game, Jordan doesn’t let a bad round dampen his spirits. In fact, his unwavering positivity is what makes him the heart and soul of our group.
Recently stepping into a new role as a proud dad, Jordan is learning to balance his love of the course with late-night feedings and diaper changes. Fatherhood hasn’t slowed him down, though—it’s just added to his perspective. He cherishes every chance to hit the links, seeing it as a way to recharge and spend quality time with his closest friends.
As a crucial part of the Strand executive committee, Jordan helps make sure every trip is as seamless as a perfectly struck 7-iron. He might not always be the lowest scorer in the group, but he’s the one who keeps us all coming back for more - and always In contention for low net. Whether he’s cracking a joke after a missed putt, celebrating your birdie like it’s his own, or simply enjoying the walk, Jordan reminds us what golf is really about: the friendships, the laughs, and the memories made along the way.
Hummel is the guy who can make any round of golf feel like a great time, whether he’s sinking putts or cracking jokes. A true lover of the game, he’s always up for a few holes, but it’s off the course where he really shines. Hummel is a big helper on the trip—especially when it comes to taking over the grill and turning every meal into a culinary masterpiece. From burgers to steaks, he’s got the perfect recipe for keeping everyone fed, fueled, and ready for the next round (or the next drink).
While he’s got a solid game on the course, it’s his ability to keep the energy high and the laughs rolling that makes him an essential part of the trip. Whether he's grilling, sharing a story, or simply enjoying the day, Hummel’s all about making sure everyone has a good time. If there’s a good laugh to be had or a burger to be flipped, you can count on Hummel to be the one leading the charge!
Justin is proof that great athletes never truly retire—they just trade bats for clubs. A former baseball standout with a killer swing, Justin has channeled his competitive spirit into the world of golf. On the course, he’s laser-focused, always looking to outdrive, outputt, and outright dominate the rest of us (and trust us, he usually does).
But Justin’s talents don’t stop on the fairway. Off the course, he’s our resident trip chef, whipping up meals that could rival anything from a five-star kitchen. From perfectly grilled steaks to hearty breakfasts that fuel us through 18 holes, Justin’s culinary skills are as sharp as his short game.
Whether he’s chasing birdies or crafting the perfect post-round feast, Justin brings his A-game to every part of the trip. Just don’t expect him to go easy on you in a golf match—or skimp on the spices in his famous chili.
Jason is the rock-solid presence every golf trip needs. Introduced to the crew by Justin, Jason has quickly become a key member of the group, seamlessly fitting in with his easygoing nature and reliability. He might not be the loudest guy on the course, but when it comes to delivering solid play, steady encouragement, and keeping things on track, Jason is always there when you need him.
His consistency on and off the course makes him a great teammate, whether it's keeping up with the group or offering that perfectly timed piece of advice. Jason's calm, dependable demeanor helps keep the energy grounded, ensuring everyone enjoys the day without getting too caught up in the highs and lows of the game.
Since Justin brought him into the fold, Jason has been an absolute perfect fit. He’s the kind of guy you can count on to show up, bring good vibes, and always keep the group moving forward—no matter what the scorecard says.
Kane might have traded the coastal vibes for the rolling hills of Tennessee, but his love for golf has stayed firmly on par—and maybe even a little above it. Since moving, he’s fully embraced the Southern lifestyle, complete with sweet tea, BBQ, and just the right amount of “y’all,” but don’t let that fool you; his heart is still planted squarely on the fairway.
Known for his boundless enthusiasm and a love of the game that teeters on obsession, Kane has transformed his swing from “yikes” to “nice” with a level of dedication that could rival a Tour pro. His relentless drive to improve and tireless commitment to the game has inspired the rest of us to step up our game.
Kane’s competitive spirit is matched only by his infectious laugh, which has a way of cutting through even the thickest morning fog on the course. Whether he’s sinking birdie putts or cracking jokes, Kane is the ultimate guy to have in your foursome.
Kevin is the Bay Area local who gave us the perfect excuse to plan our trip to Monterey. Despite playing only occasionally, Kevin’s golf game is annoyingly good—proof that some people are just born with it. He’s the kind of player who can roll up to the first tee after months off and still make you question your handicap.
Off the course, Kevin is the chillest guy in the crew. After a day of birdies, bogeys, and banter, you’ll find him in his element: zoned out, kicking back, and enjoying the moment. Whether it’s a deep dive into his favorite shows or simply soaking up the post-round vibes, Kevin’s relaxed energy is the perfect counterbalance to our group's chaos.
This trip isn’t just about great golf; it’s about great friends—and Kevin’s local ties, sneaky-good game, and epic rivalry with Rhett are at the heart of what makes this adventure unforgettable.
Matty O. is a Manhattan Beach and Strand fixture, which made it all the more surprising when he moved across the country, staying true to his patriotic, red-blooded beliefs that golf is best played with a cold drink in hand and an American flag somewhere in sight. While he might not get the most rounds in during the year, Matty O. wins in the style department every time. His golf attire is so sharp, even the ball gets intimidated.
When it comes to our trips, Matty O. is all in. His dedication to making every round memorable and every moment with the crew unforgettable is unmatched. Whether it's coordinating the details or just making sure we're all having a great time, Matty O. is the heart and soul of the trip—ensuring it's packed with laughs, stories, and plenty of good times with the boys.
Matty O. has also solidified his place in Strand Invitational history by being the winningest golfer in its history, going a perfect 6-for-6 in his appearances. His winning streak adds yet another layer of legendary status to his already iconic presence in the group. Can he stay hot?
Nick is the resident funny man, always ready with a joke or a sarcastic quip that keeps the group rolling in laughter. But don’t be fooled by his jokes—Nick is intense when it comes to golf. His competitive spirit is like a firecracker, explosive and full of energy. For him, this event isn’t just another round; it’s his Super Bowl.
Golf might have a love-hate relationship with Nick, but when it’s game time, all that intensity comes out. He’s the first to get fired up over a great shot and the first to let out a groan after a bad one, but his passion for the game is undeniable.
Every round with Nick is an experience—full of laughs, fire, and moments where you’re never quite sure whether he’s about to high-five you or throw his clubs in frustration. One thing’s for sure: he plays hard, he plays with heart, and when it comes to this trip, he’s ready to bring it. This isn’t just a golf outing for Nick; it’s his championship, and he’s here to win it all... or he'll try to fight someone.
Rhett is a proud Orange County local whose golf game might not earn him a green jacket anytime soon, but his betting skills are truly championship-worthy. Known for his "creative" approach to golf, Rhett's drives may wander, and his putts might surprise, but his uncanny ability to win side bets keeps his buddies on their toes. If you're playing with Rhett, you’d better bring your A-game—and your wallet.
Rhett recently checked a big milestone off his life list: buying his dream home. Between fixing divots on the course and fixing up the house, he’s always got a project or a punchline ready.
When he’s not on the fairway, you’ll find Rhett tearing it up on the softball field, where his competitive spirit really shines. Whether he’s snagging impossible catches or rallying the team with his go-to jokes, Rhett is a cornerstone of any lineup—on and off the field.
He’s the guy you call for a laugh, a round, or a wager you’ll probably regret. As Rhett says, "You might beat me at golf, but good luck beating me at fun."
Tony is a true lover of the game, and when it comes to golf, he’s all about the rules—no exceptions. Whether it’s an obscure rule about ball placement or a tricky hazard, Tony’s the guy you turn to for clarity. His respect for the game and its traditions is unmatched, making him not just a great player but a walking rulebook.
When he’s not schooling us on the finer points of golf etiquette, you’ll likely find Tony hitting the links in La Quinta, where he spends a lot of his time perfecting his swing on some of the most beautiful courses in California. His dedication to the game is second to none, and it’s clear he’s made golf a key part of his life.
While fatherhood hasn’t yet put a dent in his annual rounds (lucky for us), Tony’s commitment to the game and to his friends remains strong. As an essential part of organizing our trips, Tony ensures every detail is covered. Whether he's playing for fun, winning side bets, or offering a friendly reminder about proper course conduct, Tony makes every round more enjoyable—and a little more by-the-book.
Wix is the kind of guy who’s good at everything he tries, from sports to life in general—though these days, his back might argue otherwise. A natural athlete and a great golfer, Wix earned the prestigious title of Most Improved Player a couple of years ago, and he’s been riding that high ever since. But now, instead of hitting birdies, he’s busy trying to avoid hitting the floor, as his back issues have become a bit of a 'hazard.' Despite the occasional back spasm, Wix’s competitive spirit is still as strong as ever, proving that you don’t need a fully functioning back to deliver a great shot—or a good laugh.
When he’s not trying to keep his back in one piece, Wix is the creative genius behind our logo each year. Whether he's designing our shirts, hats, or anything else with our name on it, Wix’s artistic touch makes sure we look as good as we (occasionally) play.
Last year, he made Ojai history (or at least his personal record books) by earning his very first patch, a moment he considers the crowning achievement of his golf journey so far. It's proof that miracles do happen when you practice… occasionally. Whether he’s sinking putts, cracking jokes, or finding creative ways to recover from the rough, Wix is always a welcome addition to any round.