CHESTER, Pa. (September 23, 2010) – With a band playing in the background, politicians delivering speeches, young golfers displaying their dedication and volunteers proudly viewing the fruits of their labors, the new Eyre Park practice facility and learning center of the First Tee of Suburban Philadelphia opened today.
Situated in a formerly depressed area of Chester that is slowly being reclaimed and rehabilitated step by step, the Eyre Park First Tee Facility is a free-standing driving range, practice facility and learning center for the youth of Delaware County. The facility was built with funds raised by the First Tee of Suburban Philadelphia.
“This facility is an amazing triumph for those who believe in this cause,” said Jack Nilon, First Tee of Suburban Philadelphia president. “The effort of our volunteers, the City of Chester, Delaware County and the State of Pennsylvania should be lauded for working together on a project and seeing it through to a successful conclusion.”
The facility includes a 225-yard driving range with a net at the end, a 100-foot artificial turf hitting area, a 20-foot by 30-foot covered hitting area and short game practice areas. The building includes one, large all-purpose room, storage area and bathroom facilities. Construction began in 2009 and finishing touches will be completed soon after today’s grand opening ceremony.
“There were times when I have to admit I didn’t know if this project ever would be completed,” confessed Gregg Russell, executive director of the First Tee of Suburban Philadelphia. “But the members of our board were totally committed to the effort and kept working at it. The end result is one of the finest golf and educational facilities for young people in the entire state. It is something that should make everyone proud.
“One of the things that make this learning center so special is the proximity to all of the schools within Chester-Upland School District,” Russell continued. “We are very proud that all four elementary schools will participate in the First Tee National Schools program. Every elementary school child will be exposed to golf and its inherent values through the physical education curriculum.”
The enormity of the Eyre Park project and its effect on the youth of the area was not lost on Joe Barrow, executive director of the national First Tee program.
“In my position, I see first hand the positive effects of working with the youth of America,” said Barrow. “The First Tee of Suburban Philadelphia is on the brink of a monumental accomplishment with the opening of the Eyre Park training facility in Chester. Combined with the National Schools Program that has allowed them to run successful programs in four middle schools, the First Tee of Suburban Philadelphia is leading the way in the important job of helping to mold tomorrow’s citizens.”
For more information or photos, contact TL Golf Services at 610-279-9220
Contact:
Tony Leodora
610-279-9220
