Chi Chi Academy Unveils Plans for Public Sports CenterBy Renee Burrell
Photo courtesy of Chi Chi Rodriguez Academy CLEARWATER - The Chi Chi Rodriguez Youth Foundation might be the hardest working non-profit in the area. Soon the game of golf and golf great Chi Chi Rodriguez and his mission to help suffering elementary school children will not be the only things they are associated with. Chi Chi Academy Director of Development Cary Stiff recently announced that, "Plans for a multi-sport center are underway and will offer new sports opportunities soon." The Foundation's facilities in Clearwater on McMullen Booth Road already serve the community in numerous ways. Topping the list is the Academy itself, which is a Pinellas public school for 95 at risk boys and girls grades 4-8. In addition to learning required curriculum, the students attending the Academy receive character education and other lessons learned from the game of golf. The Academy's educational programs are funded in large part from income raised by the 170-acre public course the Foundation operates. The new sports center will add to the kitty. "I'm really impressed with the Master Plan. . .This will be a great place for kids and the whole community." said James Poulter, the Academy's Director of Golf and COO. Earlier this year, the Academy acquired the driving range and property across from them at 2987 McMullen Booth Road. "Right now there are 50 bays at the driving range with plans to renovate over 13,000 square feet of grass teeing area," said Poulter. The range is open year round and accommodates 100 golfers. In the future, the complex will be fully lighted and some bays will be covered as plans call for a 100 foot moving Cover Shot Canopy. Clearwater Sports Group Inc. will be offering Paintball on the premises by October 1. And a short game area, projected to be completed by November 10, will boast 15,000 feet of greens, including a putting green, a chipping green with two sand bunkers and a pitching green for 60 yard and less shots. The Academy is also evaluating the possibility of adding a seven station batting cage to the complex. Along with sporting fun, the Center will also be one for learning. Said Stiff, "Everyone is welcomed and our friendly, fully-trained staff members are ready to help you make the most of your experience at the Center. The complex offers a variety of teaching professionals for the beginner to the person wanting to play on a pro level." Five teachers are on hand and all teach private lessons. There are group lessons available with clinics, special membership programs, long drive contests and more being planned for the future. At present lessons at the Center are a great value.
Adult Group Lessons (one hour each)
Junior Group Lessons (one hour each) For future announcements and upcoming specials, visit: www.chichi.org
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