Bethel Golf Facility Becoming a Reality

McKENZIE — The dream of a Coach Jerry Wilcoxson Golf facility for current and future Bethel University golfers is becoming a reality. The facility off Highway 22, just north of the Dr. Deb Thompson Tennis Complex, is taking shape.

Dirt work by Surber Farms, prompt work by the city of McKenzie, and construction by Nathan Eaton and Eaton Construction are making the dream become a reality. In-house assistance by Bethel golf coaches, John Austin and Larry Joe Smith, is playing a key role in getting the 60 X 40 facility off the ground.

The building will house an indoor putting green, player’s lounge and study area, coaches’ offices, a simulator and two indoor bays that would hit onto a 300-yard outdoor range. A two-tier hitting area with a sprinkler system is also in the plans.

The effort would not have been possible without the contributions of Bethel supporters, the Rosenjack and Flangan families.

During Dr. Wilcoxson’s time at Bethel, he served as the Athletic Director, Coach, and Professor. After he passed away in 2015, the annual homecoming golf tournament was named in his memory to honor his many contributions to Bethel golf and to the athletic program.