Our History
The Miners’ 9 was originally built as an exclusive club for the mining bosses in Iron River Michigan. Iron River was a bustling mining town in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The discovery of iron ore in the region led to the establishment of several mines, attracting workers and their families. The Iron River Country Club, as it was originally called, was founded during this period, serving as a social hub for the mining elite. The club’s exclusivity and the black ball test reflected the hierarchical nature of the mining industry, where company bosses held significant power and influence. As the mining industry declined in the mid-20th century, many mines closed, and the population of Iron River dwindled. The transition of the Iron River Country Club to a public golf course mirrored the town’s shift from a mining-centric economy to a more diversified one. Today, the Miners’ 9 stands as a testament to Iron River’s rich history, offering a glimpse into the town’s past while providing a recreational space for the community.
The golf course itself was designed by Langford and Moreau during the “Golden Age” of golf design. The prolific partnership of William Boice Langford (1887-1977) and Theodore Moreau (1890-1942) is recognized among the great golf course designers of this era. Joining forces in 1918, Langford and Moreau combined a profound appreciation of strategic golf with modern construction practices. The result was an artistic melding of natural and constructed golf course features, providing a diversity of challenges that reward skilled and thoughtful play.
The Miners’ 9 is a 9-hole course but plays like an 18-hole course due to the numerous tee boxes and varying distances. The course continues to follow the Langford and Moreau design philosophy, offering rewards for good shots and challenges for missed ones.
Our Staff
Toby Brzoznowski – Owner
Email: [email protected]
A native of Iron River and graduate of West Iron County High School, Toby is an entrepreneur, investor and business advisor with a focus on growth strategy and value creation for early-stage technology startups. His philanthropic focus includes educational access and equity and numerous mental health initiatives.
He was the co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer of LLamasoft, helping grow the company from a two-person startup to over 700 global employees and a $1.5B acquisition by Coupa. During his time at LLamasoft, he helped bring Supply Chain Design into the corporate mainstream as a key business process and competitive weapon and positioned LLamasoft as a leading global supply chain analytics technology provider.
In roles as founder, executive advisor and board member, Toby has over 25 years of experience in building and growing high-tech businesses, primarily focused on enterprise software, AI and analytics. His expertise has been used to launch new technologies into mainstream use within global corporations, the U.S. military, public sector organizations and public health NGO’s. He is a graduate of the University of Michigan.
Sari Franzene – Events Manager
Email: [email protected]
Sari Franzene, nicknamed “Sunshine”, is a proud lifetime resident of Iron River, MI, and an alumna of West Iron County Schools. Born and raised in the heart of this close-knit community, Sari has always been deeply rooted in its events and traditions. Sari is a loving mother to two daughters and in August of 2024, she joyously married Adam Holroyd, and together they formed a blended family of eight. This new chapter in her life has brought her immense happiness and excitement, particularly as she embarks on adventures in the world of golf—a game that she and Adam enjoy playing together.
Throughout her life, Sari has exemplified dedication to community service. She has volunteered and served over 20 non-profit organizations, most of which focus on supporting the youth in this community. Her unwavering passion for serving others is matched by her enthusiasm for event planning, a skill she has honed through years of involvement in various community initiatives.
Sari’s commitment to her community extends to her professional life as well. She is the clubhouse manager and event coordinator, roles that allow her to blend her love for service and organization. Her passion and drive in event planning ensures that every occasion is memorable and runs smoothly, while her management skills contribute to the efficient operation of the clubhouse.
Sari’s life is a testament to the power of community service, dedication, and passion. Her story inspires those around her, and her contributions to Iron River are both significant and enduring.
Tommy Heuer – Head Chef
Email: [email protected]
Tommy Heuer, the distinguished chef at The Miners’9, hails originally from Chicago. From the age of five, Tommy’s passion for cooking and baking was ignited in the kitchen with his grandparents and mother. The aromas and flavors of those early years fostered a deep love for culinary creation that has carried him through life’s journey. Tommy then moved to Appleton where he spent 16 formative years honing his culinary skills and embracing the vibrancy of the city’s diverse food scene. His culinary preferences span Italian and Asian styles, reflecting his versatility and appreciation for global flavors.
Tommy’s dedication to the culinary arts contributed to the successes of several renowned establishments. He played a role in the opening of Carmella’s an Italian Bistro, Author’s Kitchen & Bar, and showcased his talent at Sap Brunch & Bakery and Houdini’s Gastro Pub. Each restaurant benefited from Tommy’s innovative approach and commitment to excellence.
Tommy, his wife Ashley, and their three adult children relocated to Iron River, Michigan, near Ashley’s family in 2018. This move marked a new chapter in Tommy’s career, bringing him closer to simple roots and the community he now serves.
Tommy is thrilled to join The Miners’ 9 team, where he aims to elevate the culinary experience of the Iron River community. His passion, experience, and vision promise a remarkable contribution to this exciting project.
Jeffrey Wilson – Course Superintendent
Email: [email protected]
Jeffrey Wilson is a dedicated professional with over 30 years of experience in golf course maintenance and development. Jeff’s career began at Treetops Resort in Gaylord, MI, where he gained valuable experience in golf course management and maintenance. He progressed from General Laborer to Assistant Superintendent and eventually Superintendent, overseeing the Fazio course and Threetops.
In 2000, Jeffrey joined Destination Kohler Golf in Kohler, WI. He served as Superintendent at the River course at Blackwolf Run and later at Whistling Straits Golf Course. His major achievements include coordinating the Ryder Cup World Golf Event in 2021, leading the Lake Michigan shoreline erosion project, and managing the total renovation and re-grass of River and Meadow Valleys courses.
In 2025, Jeff has returned back to the first golf course he worked at when he was in high school attending West Iron County. The Miners’ 9 is excited to have Jeff bring his extensive experience and dedication to the local community.
Adam Holroyd – General Manager
Email: [email protected]
Adam has spent his life starting and building businesses. In 2007, he moved to the Upper Peninsula, where he founded a wireless ISP to provide internet to rural Northern Wisconsin and the U.P. of Michigan. After growing the company to over 1,000 customers, Adam sold his portion and started Contrast Coffee.
As the Chief Operating Officer and head roaster of Contrast Coffee, Adam was instrumental in building their first five shops and two roasteries. From 2016 to 2024, Contrast Coffee grew from a startup in his garage to over 150 wholesale accounts. In June 2024, Adam resigned from his position and began searching for his next venture.
Adam has always had a passion for golf, which began at age 11 when he played in local golf leagues with his dad. His love for the sport has continued to grow over the years.
Owning a golf course has been a dream for Adam and his wife, Sari. In January 2025, their dream became a reality with the opportunity to be part of the renovation of a golf course and restaurant at The Miners’ 9. Adam brings years of operations experience and a deep passion for golf and good food. He is excited to work alongside his wife as they pursue their dream together.