Springfield, OR – Bushnell University and Pine Ridge Golf Club celebrated the grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony for the Bushnell Player Development Center on Tuesday. The event marked the official launch of a cutting edge indoor/outdoor golf facility set to redefine NAIA collegiate training in the Pacific Northwest.
The event brought together community leaders, student-athletes, university leadership, donors, and club members in the scenic Mohawk Valley. Following a warm welcome from representatives of both institutions, the dignitaries joined together for a ceremonial ribbon cutting to officially open the facility aided by the Springfield Chamber of Commerce. “We are excited to be able to provide a home for Bushnell Golf,” shared Pine Ridge Golf Club owner Ron Perkins. “Our hope is that the Player Development Center will be a place where Bushnell’s student athletes grow not only as golfers, but as positive members of our community.”
Situated between the 12th and 14th holes on the site of the original clubhouse, the 135,000 square foot outdoor short game practice area features multiple sand traps, a two-tiered green, and varied chipping and wedge targets—perfectly crafted for honing precision and technique. Adjacent to it, the refurbished 3,000 square-foot clubhouse now offers a high-tech golf simulation range, indoor putting green, locker rooms for men and women, a spacious team and meeting room, and public restrooms.
“We are blessed to see this facility come to life,” said Corey Anderson, Athletic Director at Bushnell University. ”Today’s ribbon-cutting highlights more than just a building—it celebrates a relationship between Bushnell and Pine Ridge that will enrich our communities beyond golf.”
“This facility reflects the highest level of commitment to the comprehensive development of Bushnell student athletes. It provides a strategic space in which to cultivate their academic, athletic, personal, and spiritual growth,” said Dr. Joseph D. Womack, President of Bushnell University.
Attendees had the first look at the state-of-the-art facility and participated in guided tours of both indoor and outdoor training zones. Many commented on the striking blend of performance-oriented design and welcoming atmosphere.
“This facility is a game-changer for our student-athletes and the broader golf community. It’s the realization of a vision that began with faith and partnership,” said Larry Watts, Director of Beacon Golf, “and I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built together with Pine Ridge.”
The facility is believed to be the first of its kind in the NAIA, offering student-athletes the rare combination of simulation-based instruction and expansive outdoor practice. The partnership between Bushnell University and Pine Ridge promises long-term educational, athletic, and civic benefits.
About Bushnell University
Founded in 1895, Bushnell University helps students discover and answer God’s call on their lives. Devoted to offering a Christ-centered environment, Bushnell encourages students to grow in wisdom, informed by faith, and leading to lives of service. Accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, the University was founded by pastor-educator Eugene C. Sanderson and pioneer businessman and church leader James A. Bushnell.
Bushnell is the largest private university in Eugene’s vibrant University District. The University offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees for undergraduate and graduate studies through course formats on campus, online, and hybrid formats. More information about the University is available at www.bushnell.edu.
About Pine Ridge Golf Club
Located in Springfield, Oregon’s stunning Mohawk Valley—just eight miles northeast of the Eugene–Springfield area—Pine Ridge Golf Club is a beautifully maintained 18hole championship course weaving through the Marcola hills and along the banks of the Mohawk River. Established in 1957 and revitalized in 2018 under local ownership, the course offers challenging play paired with inviting Pacific Northwest landscapes.
At its core, Pine Ridge is about more than golf—it’s about relaxation, community, and continual improvement. Whether you’re walking the course or enjoying a ride from a pull or riding cart, you’ll experience exceptional service and a welcoming atmosphere designed for golfers of every skill level. For more information about memberships, current rates, course conditions, tournaments, lessons, or to book tee times directly, visit https://pineridgegolfclub.net