Today we’d like to introduce you to Cliff Van Rickley.
Hi Cliff, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I spent 20 years in the Army most in the United States Special Forces as a Green Beret. Earned my MBA as I was retiring from the military. The army brought me and my wife to Tennessee where we’ve made a home and raised a family.
After the military I began working in logistics. Currently am working in a logistics tech firm overseeing our relationship with some of the world’s biggest companies.
I knew I wanted to start a business one day and add fate had it, my son’s got into golf at the right time. That led to me responding to an Instagram ad about opening an indoor golf franchise. We decided that Clarksville needed this entertainment option and jumped in with both feet
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Starting a business and building it into a success is hard, harder when you have a full time job. Navigating all of the paperwork and loans and minding every detail has been a challenge. There were plenty of bumps in the road just getting the doors open. Sba loan process was brutal. One big challenge/ lesson learned was classifying my business correctly for tax purposes. For the first six months I didn’t charge sales tax, this obviously was a huge error I literally paid for.
We’ve been impressed with The Back Nine Clarksville, 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 Back Nine Clarksville is a locally owned, technology-driven indoor golf facility built to make golf more accessible, more enjoyable, and available year-round. Our state-of-the-art golf simulators allow players of every skill level—from first-time golfers to competitive players—to practice, play world-famous courses, compete in leagues and tournaments, or simply spend quality time with friends and family in a comfortable, climate-controlled environment.
What sets us apart is that we’re much more than a place to hit golf balls. We’re building a community centered around golf, connection, and fun. With 24/7 member access, flexible tee times, private events, youth camps, corporate outings, leagues, instructional opportunities, and social tournaments, we’ve created a space where everyone feels welcome regardless of experience.
We take pride in delivering an exceptional customer experience through premium technology, a welcoming atmosphere, and a commitment to helping people enjoy the game. Whether someone is looking to improve their swing, entertain clients, celebrate with friends, or introduce their children to golf, we strive to make every visit memorable.
Brand-wise, we’re most proud of creating a place where golf brings people together. Our mission is to grow the game by removing traditional barriers such as weather, time, and intimidation, while becoming a hub for the Clarksville community. We want people to know that The Back Nine isn’t just an indoor golf simulator—it’s a place to compete, learn, connect, and have fun, 365 days a year.
We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
First and foremost I was blessed to have found an amazing woman, my wife Jennifer, who has not only supported me through everything, but has given me the confidence to even try.
For the business, we opened right at the height of golf hysteria built around social media influencers and the TGL indoor golf league. We definitely have ride this wave of golf popularity.
Pricing:
- Memberships start at $220 a month which gives you unlimited golf
- Public non member tee times are $50 an hour
- Summer special, $25 an hour for public tee times
Contact Info:
- Website: https://thebackninegolf.com/local/clarksvilletn/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/b9golfclarksville
