STANFORD, Calif. – Already regarded as one of the best practice facilities in the world, the Siebel Varsity Golf Training Complex on the Stanford University campus is getting an upgrade.
In 2012, the complex was impacted by the construction of Stanford’s Replacement Central Energy Facility. This energy facility allowed for the golf teams and athletic department to rethink the layout of the Siebel Varsity Golf Training Center.
Jay Blasi designed the reconfiguration of the Siebel Varsity Training Complex and has worked closely with shaper Doug Ingram. Located adjacent to the par-4 second hole on the renowned Stanford University Golf Course, the facility will encompass 18 acres and includes six green complexes, one large block tee area and additional short game practice areas. The project is expected to be completed early next fall.
“During the past seven years, we have studied how the teams used the facility and we are using that data to guide to us,” Blasi said. “We are adding a large putting complex, framing the driving zone targets and offering different areas to work on shot execution versus shot creativity. All are the result of feedback from the men’s and women’s teams.”
Two other key additions are a 3,800-square foot Stanford Varsity Clubhouse -- that will house coaches offices, team locker rooms, conference room, team lounge, bathrooms, showers and storage space -- and a 1,200-square foot performance studio behind the main hitting tee that will offer an indoor to outdoor area for all users to utilize the latest state-of-the art training technologies like Trackman, Sam Putt Lab, video and 3D motion capture.
In an effort to conserve water, drought tolerant Bermuda and fescue grasses are being used, and there will be stand-alone native areas. A new cutting-edge irrigation system will also make more efficient use of water.
Conrad Ray, the Knowles Family Director of Men’s Golf, and Anne Walker, the Mitch and Margot Milias Director of Women’s Golf, provided key input during the planning process. Both led their respective teams to Pac-12 Championships in 2014, with the men repeating in 2015. The project also received valuable assistance from a number of key consultants, including civil engineers and building architects.
“The Siebel Golf Varsity Training Complex is one of the key pieces to the success of Stanford golf,” said Ray, who led the Cardinal to an NCAA title in 2007. “We have invested a tremendous amount of planning, resources and support in providing our student-athletes a place where game development through efficient, thoughtful and high-quality practice can become a reality. The updated complex will provide a backdrop to practice for any type of shot our student-athletes will encounter in competition.”
Added Walker, “It’s an exciting time for all involved with the Stanford golf program. Current and future players will have access to what will undoubtedly be one of the finest practice facilities in the world. The commitment from the university and donors who have made this possible speaks volumes about Stanford’s commitment to excellence and the student-athlete experience. We want to make sure our student-athletes have all the tools they need to achieve their goals and accomplish their best in the classroom and on the golf course.”