“Just golf, no B.S.” That’s how franchise owner Matt Waller describes Back Nine, a new simulation experience that provides casual and serious golfers a private, relaxed setting to work on their game at any time of day or night.
The United States Golf Association cited a recent boom in golf interest in a 2025 Golf Journal article. Participation is up from about 30 million players in 2014 to 45 million in 2023, boosted in part by off-course options such as indoor simulators and driving ranges. Back Nine is taking advantage: Founded in Utah in 2021 by Wil Bangerter, it has spread nationally. Its third Hoosier State location opened Feb. 28 in Evansville at 6840 Logan Drive, Ste. C.
“I wanted to pay tribute to the rich history and tradition of Evansville golf,” Waller explains. A large mural nods to the city’s universities and golf courses, as well as TaylorMade Golf, one of Back Nine’s corporate partners in Evansville, which provides clubs for members’ use. Graphic artists and Evansville natives Corey and Casey Wilkinson of Fishers, Indiana, created the mural; Waller reached out after seeing their “Summer’s Funner” design on the July/August 2025 Evansville Living cover.
Warrick County’s Victoria National Golf Club is one of dozens of simulated courses that Back Nine members can tackle. Famous courses include Pebble Beach Golf Links in Southern California, TPC Sawgrass near Jacksonville, Florida, and the Old Course at St. Andrews, Scotland. Back Nine members book tee times and gain entry via an app; the club operates 24/7 for those who purchase memberships.
Back Nine uses Full Swing technology, in which high-speed cameras and infrared light wave technology measure ball flight and club data at the moment of impact, offering real-time feedback. Three studios each can accommodate four golfers, with room for more if needed. Waller has his eye on private events and group outings, and he’s been in touch with area high school and college programs, plus the Evansville Junior Golf Association.
The Washington, Indiana, native is happy to be back in the Hoosier State after a career in sports sales and marketing in Atlanta, Georgia. “Family brings you back home, and I ran around going a thousand miles an hour for 26 years,” he says. “It’s nice to be settled here, and I can put all my 30-plus years of sales and marketing experience to work. And I feel really confident this is going to be successful.”
More simulators can help you hone your skills in golf and other sports:
Club 18 at Mister B’s
TrackMan technology lets you compete with friends on dozens of world-renowned courses.
Pure Golf Lab
True to its name, this is a spot fit for a beginner or more skilled players. It’s limited to 30 members, ensuring plenty of open tee times.
Birdies
This Downtown spot offers axe throwing as well as golf, zombie dodgeball, soccer, football, basketball, and hockey simulations.
Tee Box
TrackMan technology also factors into this facility, which is equipped for kids’ and adults’ parties.
Swings at Wings, Etc.
Simulations for golf, football, baseball, basketball, zombie dodgeball, soccer, hockey, and carnival games are available.
Golf Galaxy
Simulate play at iconic courses and browse golf apparel and gear.
