The University of Florida's vision for a championship-level golf facility is officially one step closer to reality. After a key vote by the Alachua County Commission, the proposed 36-hole course—spanning 580 acres—has moved forward in the approval process, clearing the way for state and regional agencies to review the land use.
Located just east of Southwest 122nd Street (Parker Road) and south of Myra Terwilliger Elementary School, the new course promises to be a game-changer for both the UF men's and women's golf teams. But it's not just for the Gators: the public will also get limited access through UF/IFAS, First Tee, and other educational programs, blending elite athletics with community engagement.
The April 28 vote was unanimous, and the meeting opened with remarks from UF Vice President for Government and Community Relations Chuck Clemons, who praised the collaborative spirit of the three-year partnership behind the project. He then handed the mic to a familiar face in Gator sports: men's golf head coach J.C. Deacon.
Deacon, who has led the program for 12 years and racked up an impressive resume—including a national championship, two SEC titles, and over 30 tournament wins—didn't hold back about the team's current struggles. Just two days before the vote, the Gators suffered a tough loss to Ole Miss in the SEC championship, and Deacon made it clear that outdated facilities are holding the program back.
"We're currently using a facility that's over 100 years old," Deacon told commissioners. "All of our competition in the Southeastern Conference—and that other school up north here in Florida (FSU)—have facilities that are just so far above and beyond us. This project would be a game-changer for recruiting and the student-athlete experience."
Commissioner Marihelen Wheeler raised a practical question: what would happen to the Mark Bostick Golf Course? Deacon reassured her that the program would retain and continue using the historic course, effectively giving UF two top-tier facilities to work with.
Wheeler also addressed public concerns about accessibility, asking whether the Mark Bostick course could be opened to non-university golfers. Deacon confirmed that it already is—the course is available for public play, ensuring that local golfers still have a place to tee off while the new championship venue takes shape.
With this vote, the Gators are one step closer to a facility that matches their championship ambitions. For fans and players alike, the future of Florida golf is looking brighter than ever.