Sam Jonell
Director of Golf
Sam joined the River Wilds staff as the Director of Golf in Spring of 2023. He graduated from University of Nebraska Lincoln with his Bachelors in PGA Golf Management and was elected to the PGA in May of 2013.
Sam came to River Wilds from Miracle Hill Golf & Tennis Center where he spent the past 7 years as an Assistant Professional and the prior 2 years in Saint Louis at Persimmon Woods Golf Club.
Sam and his wife Gabbi live in Omaha with their two boys Lincoln and Ford.
Phone: 402-426-2941
Email: sam@riverwilds.com
Ryan Walpole
Superintendent
Ryan Walpole has been the Golf Course Superintendent at River Wilds Golf Club since 2004. Ryan began his career with Golf LLC, where he became the Grow-In Superintendent at Iron Horse Golf Course, in Ashland, NE.
Previously, Ryan has been the superintendent at Fox Run Golf Course. Ryan will strive to provide players at River Wilds with a challenging yet fun environment for all levels of golfers.
Ryan graduated from SETI in 1998 with a degree in Turf Grass Management and Horticulture.
Ryan is married to Amber and has 2 daughters
Phone: 402-426-2941
Email: ryan.riverwilds@gmail.com
Trevor Svec
Assistant Golf Professional
Trevor joined the River Wilds staff as the Assistant Professional in Spring of 2026. He graduated from University of Nebraska Lincoln with his Bachelors in PGA Golf Management and was elected to the PGA in December of 2019.
Trevor came to River Wilds after spending three seasons as a Class A professional at Happy Hollow Club and Indian Trails CC, most recently in 2022. Returned to the golf business in 2026.
Trevor resides in Omaha with his dog, Kevin.
Phone: 402-536-9445
Email: trevor@riverwilds.com
Joel Waters
PGA Director of Instruction
Started March 2025
Phone: 402-936-2100
Email: joeldwaters@icloud.com
Mallory Stirek
General Manager
Mallory joined the River Wilds staff in 2022 as a Pro Shop Attendant and became the Food & Beverage Manager in 2024. Since then, her role has continued to expand, and she now serves as General Manager, overseeing various aspects of the club’s daily operations, events, and guest experience.
Mallory is currently pursuing a degree in Entrepreneurial Studies with minors in Management and Leadership at South Dakota State University. She enjoys bringing new ideas to River Wilds, creating a welcoming environment for members and guests, and working on the landscaping and beautification of the course.
Phone: 402-237-2349
Email: mstirek7@gmail.com