Florida Unveils Plan to Build Champion-Level Golf Facility
Consumer Cellular Chairman and CEO Ed Evans has provided funding to build a new golf course for the University of Florida’s men’s and women’s golf teams, the University Athletic Association announced.
The 18-hole course will span 500 acres and be designed by Beau Welling and Steve Smyers. Welling is known for his work with Tiger Woods on Bluejack National in Montgomery, Texas.
The Evans University of Florida Golf Club will also feature a clubhouse designed by Hart Howerton and guest cottages. One of the firm’s most recognizable projects is Naples Beach Club, a Four Seasons Resort in Naples, Florida.
“Our lead donors understand what golf can mean to a university and a community, and their vision and generosity will help provide our student-athletes with resources that match the caliber of our programs,” UF President Stuart Bell said.
Evans has served on the UAA’s board since 2024 and on the Gator Boosters Board of Directors since 2008. He also volunteers as a committee member for the United States Golf Association, a position he began while owning Oak Tree National Golf Course in Edmond, Oklahoma.
In addition to Evans’ contribution, Florida-based contractor Power Design will sponsor the Power Design Team House. The facility will be part of a collegiate golf training complex featuring specialized training spaces, practice environments and player-development technology.
Power Design previously worked with the university on the development of the UF Honors Residential College.
“Having a championship-level home golf course changes everything for how we can develop our student-athletes and compete nationally for championships every year,” women’s golf coach Emily Glaser said.
Both teams use Mark Bostick Golf Course on campus as their primary practice facility.
The course was last renovated in May 2014, with its most recent redesign taking place in 2001, years before any player on the UF golf teams was born.
“Championship programs require championship-level resources,” men’s golf coach J.C. Deacon said. “This new facility gives us something we don’t currently have — access to a championship-level course and expanded practice environment right here in Gainesville.”
The new course will open doors not only for collegiate competition but also amateur and professional tournaments. Welling and Smyers have created PGA-level courses before, while Evans’ previous course hosted the 2014 U.S. Senior Open.
This development also provides opportunities for students in the UF Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences to gain research and practical experience in turfgrass management, irrigation and environment management.
The UAA has not released the expected completion date.
Category: Gainesville, Gator Sports, Gators Men's Golf, Gators Women's Golf, Golf
