Today we’d like to introduce you to Bill Ricigliano.
Hi Bill, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
More Than Just a Game — A Mission
The Putting Zone (TPZ) began as a passion project over 30 years ago, born at the intersection of two lifelong interests: golf and creative flooring design. In the late 1980s, Bill Ricigliano—a golf enthusiast since high school and a seasoned flooring contractor since 1973—envisioned a new kind of golf experience. While not a pro golfer, Bill enjoyed the challenge and camaraderie of the game, often testing his putting skills on local short courses. As his skills—and love for the game—grew, so did a novel idea: what if a golf course could be built entirely from carpet?
With decades of experience designing and installing custom flooring, including intricate patterns, logos, and artistic rug layouts, Bill saw a unique opportunity to merge craftsmanship with sport. In 1993, this vision became a reality with the approval of a U.S. patent for an environmentally simulated golf course—a concept ahead of its time.
Relocating from New York to Naples, Florida in the early 1990s during an economic downturn, Bill sought new opportunities and a better future for his family. Naples’ upscale market and appreciation for design proved to be a perfect match. As the patent process was finalized in Florida, early momentum began to build. Strategic connections followed, including a partnership with Stephen Drezen and the support of a Wharton School graduate who helped formalize TPZ’s first business plan. A focus group conducted at Temple University delivered positive insights, validating public interest in the concept.
Over the next decade, the TPZ journey took Bill across the country—from PGA Superstores in Texas to meetings with golf legends like Brad Faxon, Ken Venturi, and Gene Sarazen. Despite promising partnerships and media coverage, including front-page business news in the Naples Daily News, raising capital and launching the concept at scale proved challenging.
In 2024, an unexpected opportunity surfaced. A long-time friend, now a commercial property owner, had acquired a 600,000 sq. ft. mall in Kentucky and was developing a new entertainment project in Nashville, Tennessee. The concept included an indoor pickleball facility and restaurant, with additional space available. For the first time in decades, the conditions were right, and a lease was signed in December 2024.
Today, The Putting Zone is preparing to launch its flagship location in Nashville in November 2025. Backed by decades of innovation, passion, and perseverance, TPZ is positioned to redefine recreational putting—bringing the spirit of competition, creativity, and community to a new generation of golfers.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Like any entrepreneurial venture, bringing The Putting Zone to life has come with its share of challenges. The most significant has been securing funding, despite having an incredibly strong foundation — including holding US, Canada, and international patents, validation from the National Golf Foundation, and partnerships with respected brands like Bettinardi Golf, Cobra Puma Golf, and The First Tee Program.
On example dates back to 2005, when our founder partnered with golf historian and collector Ralph Smith. Together they acquired 13 acres in Fort Myers, FL, and commissioned the NGF to conduct a feasibility study, which confirmed strong market interest for an indoor putting facility. Unfortunately, the 2008 real estate collapse derailed those plans — the bank financing the project was sold, funding was pulled, and the property was ultimately returned, despite having appreciated significantly in value. It was a major financial and personal setback, and Ralph later passed away in 2015 before seeing the dream realized.
That experience, however, only reinforced the team’s belief in the concept. We’ve since rebuilt the vision with a stronger, more resilient business model — leveraging technology, proven industry partnerships, and a market that’s now more receptive than ever to indoor golf. The journey hasn’t been easy, but it’s made The Putting Zone far more strategic, sustainable, and purpose-driven in its approach.
We’ve been impressed with The Putting Zone, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
The Putting Zone – a premium experience that does NOT dilute the game of golf.
The Putting Zone (TPZ) is the world’s first professional indoor putting and competition venue, redefining one of golf’s oldest traditions for a new generation. Located in Nashville, our 30,000 sq. ft. flagship facility features an 18-hole, par-72 indoor course designed by world-renowned golf architect Ron Garl, built entirely with proprietary turf engineered to simulate championship-level greens.
At TPZ, we specialize in competitive putting — a format that blends the precision of golf with the energy of social sport. From individual play and league competition to private events, tournaments, and team outings, we’ve created an environment that welcomes golfers and non-golfers alike.
What sets us apart is our authenticity and purpose. We’re not mini golf — we’re golf, reimagined. Our partnerships with Bettinardi Golf, Cobra Puma Golf, The First Tee, and the National Golf Foundation validate our commitment to growing the game responsibly and inclusively. We’ve created a space that merges the heritage of golf with the spirit of innovation. Inside TPZ, guests will find a Scottish village aesthetic, a “MuZeum” featuring over 300 antique putters dating back to the 1800’s.
Brand-wise, we’re most proud of our “Putt for a Purpose” program — our philanthropic initiative – we will donate $1 from every round played to a local charity of your choice from our curated list, supporting local organizations that serve, uplift, and directly impact our community in powerful ways. We anticipate over $97,000 poured back into the local community in year 1.
Ultimately, we want readers to know that The Putting Zone is more than a venue — it’s a movement. We’re creating the next major recreational sport, competitive putting, and inviting everyone to be part of it. Whether you’re playing, practicing, or just enjoying the atmosphere, TPZ is where golf truly comes alive, 12 months a year.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
As a kid, I spent countless summer evenings on the local course — chasing daylight, scuffed golf balls, and the dream of making par. I didn’t have the newest clubs or the perfect swing, but I had persistence. I remember one particular evening when I was about ten years old; I’d driven the ball surprisingly well for my age, chipped onto the green, and stood over a short, downhill putt to finally make a par. It was maybe three feet — nothing to panic about.
I missed. Then I missed again.That moment stuck with me more than any perfect drive ever could. I realized that putting wasn’t just part of the game — it was the game. The smallest stroke carried the biggest consequence, and mastering it required equal parts focus, feel, and forgiveness.
That lesson became the seed of The Putting Zone — a place born from that same childhood frustration and fascination. Because somewhere between those missed putts, I fell in love with the most challenging, and most rewarding, part of golf.
Pricing:
- Memberships range from $179 – $699 per month with unlimited waived greens fees and other perks
- Adult rates $25-$30 per round
- Senior Rates $20-$24 per round
- Junior Rates $15-$19 per round
- Family of four <$100 per round
Contact Info:
- Website: https://theputtingzone.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/puttingzone/#
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theputtingzone/
- LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/theputtingzone/
- Twitter: https://x.com/theputtingzone
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.putting.zone
