Business Buzz
Some entrepreneurs build businesses. Others create destinations that leave a lasting impact on an entire community.
Frank Ruocco has become one of those visionaries. Throughout his career in real estate development, site development, hospitality, and entertainment, he has built a reputation for recognizing opportunities that others overlook and transforming them into thriving, successful ventures. Today, he serves as executive vice president of Ocean Casino Resort while also owning two of South Jersey’s most recognizable golf properties—Greate Bay Country Club in Somers Point and the newly reimagined Mays XII, formerly the historic Mays Landing Country Club.
Originally from West Haven, Connecticut, Ruocco relocated to Atlantic City in 2016 with one ambitious goal—to become part of the ownership and leadership team that would breathe new life into the former Revel Casino. That vision became reality as Ocean Casino Resort emerged as one of Atlantic City’s premier destinations, thanks in part to significant investments, continued expansion, and a commitment to first-class guest experiences.
While Frank’s professional responsibilities are extensive, those who know him best say family remains at the center of his life. His wife, Christina, has been a constant source of encouragement throughout his business journey, and together they have built a blended close-knit family with their children, Jordan, Jesse, Jojo and Gigi.
Revitalizing Greate Bay Country Club
Ruocco’s first venture into the South Jersey golf industry came with the acquisition of Greate Bay Country Club, one of the region’s premier private clubs.
Rather than simply operating the club, he invested heavily in its future. Members immediately noticed the difference. The clubhouse underwent extensive renovations, the golf course received significant improvements, new landscaping enhanced the property’s beauty, and major infrastructure upgrades—including the construction of new tunnels beneath Route 9— improved playability and member convenience.
Equally important was creating a welcoming, member-friendly atmosphere where golfers of all ages and abilities could enjoy the club. Under Ruocco’s leadership, Greate Bay has evolved into more than a golf course; it has become a vibrant social destination known for exceptional service, outstanding dining, weddings, special events, and an active membership.
Adjacent to the golf course, Ryan Homes is currently developing an attractive community of townhome- and condominium-style residences, creating a complementary neighborhood that enhances the long-term value of both the club and the surrounding area.
Frank’s long-term vision for Greate Bay is to continue investing in the property, preserving its reputation as one of New Jersey’s premier private country clubs while enhancing amenities, expanding member experiences, and ensuring that future generations enjoy the same outstanding golf tradition for decades to come.
A new chapter begins: Mays XII
After witnessing the success at Greate Bay, Ruocco and his partners turned their attention to another legendary South Jersey golf property—the former Mays Landing Country Club.
Originally developed in 1962 by the late Leo Fraser, along with partners Jack Nugent, Bill Christiansen, Bill Rafferty, and Bruce Coltart, the course opened with golf legends Sam Snead and Tony Lema participating in the grand opening festivities.
For generations, golfers affectionately referred to the course as “The Best Birdie for the Buck.” Leo Fraser, one of South Jersey’s true golf pioneers, helped establish the club as one of the area’s premier public golf destinations.
During the early 1990s, Leo Fraser’s children—Jim Fraser, Doug Fraser, and Bonnie Fraser Siok—assumed leadership of the club. They expanded banquet operations, developed a successful wedding venue, enhanced the Grille Room restaurant, and completed numerous clubhouse improvements while preserving the Fraser family’s commitment to affordable, enjoyable golf. In 2011, the club proudly celebrated its 50th anniversary.
In 2023, Ruocco acquired the historic property with an entirely different vision—not simply to renovate another golf course, but to re-imagine the public golf experience.
That vision became Mays XII.
“We believed that a golf experience and a housing component would be mutually complementary. In order to accomplish both, it was not possible to restore the historical 18-hole golf course. We spent a lot of time considering a 9-hole option and the much more unique 12-hole option. There was no science, metrics or analytics that drove this decision. Simply a sense that many people would enjoy the unique, shortened version of the traditional 18-hole golf experience. Although golf first started as 12 holes, it may not be for the golf purist. Our hope is that many people will enjoy the benefits of shortened version that that Mays XII will present”
Mays XII offers a unique 12-hole layout designed for today’s golfer—perfect for busy professionals, families, seniors, and anyone seeking a fun, relaxed day on the course.
The entire property has undergone extensive renovations, including the clubhouse, golf course, outdoor gathering areas, and landscaping.
Adding to the excitement is Ruocco’s partnership with the iconic LaScala Restaurant Group, bringing authentic Italian cuisine, signature pizzas, and a lively dining experience to what will become LaScala’s at Mays XII.
But golf is only part of the experience.
Visitors will also enjoy a bocce court, ping pong, a beautifully designed 1,200-square-foot putting green, fire pits, live entertainment, outdoor social spaces, and an atmosphere designed around one simple goal—having fun.
The development also includes approximately 212 attached townhomes that are expected to break ground in early 2027, creating another vibrant residential community while preserving an exciting public golf destination.
Frank Ruocco’s long-term vision for Mays XII extends well beyond golf. He envisions the property becoming a casual, fun, social experience—a place where golfers, families, friends, and neighbors gather to enjoy great food, live music, outdoor recreation, and unforgettable experiences.
The golf course is scheduled to officially open on July 11, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter for one of South Jersey’s most historic golf properties.
If Frank Ruocco’s track record at Ocean Casino Resort and Greate Bay Country Club is any indication, Mays XII is poised to become one of the region’s most innovative and enjoyable recreational destinations—where everyone can find something to enjoy, whether they’re carrying a golf bag, sharing a pizza with friends, or simply relaxing around the fire pits after a great day.
Rich Baehrle, of Berkshire Hathaway Fox and Roach, can be reached at 609-226-6680 or 609-641-0011. Email richardbaehrle@gmail.com or see www.getrichinrealestateSJ.com
