Before the 2019-20 season was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Abilene Christian opened the doors to its brand new Byron Nelson Clubhouse last February.
“Even though he wasn’t an ACU graduate I think he felt an affinity for the university and especially the golf program” said head coach Tom Shaw.
In 1984 a fundraiser was held and Nelson helped to endow the first scholarship. Once he got involved, the door was opened for ACU golf. While Nelson never attended ACU, he served as a member of ACU’s Board of Trustees from 1965-74 and chaired the Fort Worth Region of its National Development Council. Nelson’s widow, Peggy Nelson Jaros, donated several items from his career for display.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yusfw5YcrrU
Jack Maxwell, ACU professor emeritus of art and design, was commissioned to create two distinctive pieces for the clubhouse: a painting of the 12th green and Byron Nelson Bridge at Augusta National Golf Club is displayed, as well as his collaboration with Geoff Broderick, associate professor of art and design, to create a bronze bust of Nelson with a golf club in hand.
The clubhouse overlooks The Jim, ACU’s short-game practice area, and features a training room that includes swing-simulation technology (McGlothlin Simulator Bay), a full-size living area, offices for coaches, men’s and women’s locker rooms, a College Golf Fellowship Conference Room and kitchen.
More: Check out our list of college golf practice facilities