MOSCOW, Idaho – The University of Idaho's Big Sky championship golf teams took another step forward Thursday with the opening of the Jess and Kathleen Hall Vandal Golf Performance Center on Nez Perce Drive near the UI golf course.
 
Four years ago, through a series of chance meetings with women's coach Lisa Johnson and Director of Athletics Rob Spear, Jess Hall learned of the need for a practice facility – the type of indoor training ground featured on college campuses across the country. As Moscow natives – and even more so as current Alaska residents, the Halls know all about winter and the obstacles golfers face as they try to train during the winter months.
 
Hence the 1,400-square foot facility that features two hitting bays, which can be used with the doors up or down; a putting green, and state-of-the-art video equipment that analyzes the most minute aspect of every swing.
 
As they decided to put not only their financial resources behind the project but Jess Hall's expertise as a contractor, there was one thing on their list – that whatever they did, it would support female and male student-athletes.
 
"Having been in the building industry for 42 years," Jess Hall said, "we felt that we could contribute a well-built, low-cost building that would give the university a permanent facility to benefit many generations of golfers. 
 
"Building a golf facility was an easy choice for us because it will benefit the men's and women's golf programs.  Since Idaho is a northern state and weather can be a limiting factor on practice, this learning facility would help the golf teams stay competitive all year."
 
The building is virtually maintenance free with a 30-year roof and lifetime paint along with innovative heating and lighting that guarantee low energy costs.
 
"We hope that the Idaho golf teams are successful for many years to come and will bring attention to the university and inspire other alumni to support all athletic programs," the Hall said.
 
In addition to their leadership gift, the facility also received contributions from Mack Construction, Germer Construction, Gropp Electric, Motley and Motley, Atlas Sand and Gravel, and Corey Triplet of Benjamin Moore Paint.