Game Changer

A new chapter in Rollins athletics has taken shape on the west side of campus, redefining how student-athletes train, compete, and connect. Facing Elizabeth and Ward halls, the 9,961-square-foot Tennis & Golf Center officially opened this past October as the new home for men’s and women’s tennis as well as the men’s and women’s golf teams.

“This new space represents the best of what athletics can offer: precision, passion, and purpose,” says Pennie Parker, associate vice president of athletics. “It’s a space built to inspire excellence, to support our student-athletes in their pursuit of greatness, and to bring our campus community together through sport.”

The state-of-the-art facility features reconfigured courts, golf simulators, locker rooms, dedicated coaches’ offices, a stringing room, meeting space, and spectator areas. But more than a collection of spaces, the center is designed to shape experience, drawing student-athletes together throughout the day, shortening the distance between training and downtime, and creating a shared home for competition and connection.

“The competitiveness of the Sunshine State Conference attracts top athletes, and Rollins’ academic reputation sets it apart for students seeking both athletic and academic excellence,” says varsity tennis player and computer science major Sydney Eckstein ’26. “The new Tennis & Golf Center embodies these principles. It symbolizes Rollins’ commitment to its student-athletes as well as the values and skills that are developed throughout our time here. This building inspires us to continue to push each other and to dream bigger than what we thought was possible.”

Leveling Up

Designed by LaBella Associates, a firm specializing in tennis facilities, the space reflects Rollins’ Mediterranean aesthetic with a red tile roof, arched openings, and open-air transitions. A central breezeway leads to six competition courts—three east, three west—creating a natural indoor-outdoor flow.

A Better View

Above the courts, twin covered balconies redefine the spectator experience. Instead of traditional grandstands, an elevated viewing area puts approximately 120 spectators right above the action.

Tee Time

The second floor houses Rollins’ golf programs, featuring a specialized grip room with a fully equipped workbench, coaches’ offices, and secure team storage. An expansive simulator room, outfitted with the largest, most advanced simulators available, allows both the men’s and women’s teams to train simultaneously.

Building Community

Framed by sweeping views of the courts, the Players’ Lounge serves as a shared hub for both teams, hosting everything from team meetings and study sessions to events and match viewing. High-top seating and lounge areas invite camaraderie while surrounding trophies and team regalia ground the space in tradition and pride.