Georgia Southern University Golf Course Opens

October 11, 2013

It is almost time to tee off at the new Georgia Southern University Golf Course. Public play begins Saturday, Oct. 12 on the redesigned course at 1031 Golf Club Road.

During a ribbon-cutting ceremony Thursday afternoon, University leaders shared praise and excitement about the addition of a golf course to the long list of outstanding recreational facilities for students. “This represents a number of things that speak loudly and boldly about what Georgia Southern is and where we are going,” said University President Brooks A. Keel, Ph.D.  “We are a university on the move and are always looking for ways to better serve our students and community. This is one more way in which we can tell the world that we are different, and we are special.”

Money collected from student fees paid for the transformation of the 167 acres located about six miles from campus. Three years ago, the University spent $650,000 to purchase Southern Links, which had been closed for several years. With $5 million spent on renovations and a new layout designed by Robert Walker, Georgia Southern now has an attractive 18-hole championship golf course open for students, faculty, staff and people in surrounding communities.

“This is what a student-centered university is all about,” said Teresa Thompson, Ph.D., vice president of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. “What we were buying was the opportunity to expand our recreational and student activity opportunities. We have very bright students who have high expectations inside and outside the classroom.” Thompson also pointed out the golf course could help keep students enrolled. “We have found in studies that students who are involved in recreational activities are retained and graduate at a higher rate.”

The public course has five sets of tees and has been redesigned so golfers of all skill levels can enjoy playing a round. It measures 6,900 yards from the back tees and 5,300 from the front tees. Water is in play on 11 of the 18 holes, and the course has 53 bunkers in the fairways around the greens.

“This is an opportunity for us to provide an experience to our students and community members and expose them to the game of golf,” said Gene Sherry, executive director of Campus Recreation and Intramurals (CRI). “This facility is a great addition to meet the needs of our active and growing student body as we promote healthy lifestyle habits.

The facility also has a driving range, practice putting and chipping greens, along with a renovated 8,000 square foot clubhouse, which includes a pro shop, snack bar and meeting space. Find out about greens fees, schedule tee times and learn more about the course by visiting GeorgiaSouthern.edu/golf

Georgia Southern University, a Carnegie Doctoral/Research University founded in 1906, offers 125 degree programs serving more than 20,000 students. Through eight colleges, the University offers bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree programs built on more than a century of academic achievement.  Georgia Southern is recognized for its student-centered approach to education. Visit: www.georgiasouthern.edu.