By Hazel Scott/ASU
Alabama State University (ASU) marked a milestone on Thursday, April 9, with the grand opening and ribbon-cutting of the new Hornet Golf Clubhouse. This advanced indoor facility is set to enhance training and create new opportunities for ASU student-athletes.
The ceremony gathered University leadership, Board of Trustees members, student-athletes, coaches and community members. Following opening remarks, dignitaries cut the ribbon, officially opening the doors to a 3,000-square-foot clubhouse adjacent to the Houston Markham Jr. Football complex.
Filled with state-of-the-art features, the clubhouse includes a high-tech golf simulation range, a putting green, locker rooms, a lounge and study area, and coaches’ offices.
Dr. Jason Cable, ASU’s vice president of Intercollegiate Athletics, described the facility as “more than a building — it’s a bridge between the University and community, built on values of inclusion, opportunity and excellence, aligning with our CommUniversity values.”
Cable added that the facility is a welcoming space, one that reflects the University’s commitment to study success. “As we open the doors to this incredible facility, let us also open the doors to new possibilities, new achievements and for new generations of Hornets to come. This is just the beginning; the best is yet to come.”
ASU President, Dr. Quinton T. Ross, Jr., highlighted the significance of this project as one of the first of its kind at a Historically Black College or University (HBCU). He praised the vision that began in 2020 with Coach Quincy Heard’s belief in elevating the golf program and noted how the clubhouse will attract talent and build a lasting championship culture.
“We stand before you as a symbol of our vision, our progress, and our unwavering commitment to excellence. In building this space, we made a deliberate decision to make room for our golf students to thrive and to fully enjoy their experience at Alabama State University. Most importantly, we made room for greatness. As we reflect on the proud legacy of this program, we are even more excited about what lies ahead.”
Heard, head coach of Men’s and Women’s Golf, expressed great pride in the new home for the Hornets, emphasizing its role not only as a training space but as a hub for studying and fellowship. “It is more than a facility; it is a home. This facility is for our student-athletes. We believe in you, and this is just the beginning of great things to come,” he said.
Heard thanked the University administration for believing in this vision and investing in our student-athletes. “Your support made this possible. This state-of-the-art facility allows our student-athletes to train year-round while providing a space for studying, bonding and growing.”
Attendees toured the modern training zones, impressed by the blend of high performance and welcoming atmosphere.
“The Hornet Golf Clubhouse stands as a powerful symbol of ASU’s commitment to investing in its students and crafting a bright future where excellence thrives on and off the course,” remarked Ross.