Golf at SHP is now right on campus. The new putting green is officially up and running. If you have not seen it yet, it is located by the entrance to Dollinger Field. This new amenity of the SHP campus offers golfers and those curious about the sport a place to practice, learn, and enjoy the game of golf without leaving the campus. 

SHP Spanish Teacher Ms. Bianca Matta coaches the Women’s Varsity Golf Team. Matta is thrilled about the facility. “I thought; no way. We are mini-Stanford. This is crazy exciting,” she said, “I never imagined I would work for a school that would even consider building a golf facility on campus.”

The goal of this new putting green is to inspire students who may never have picked up a golf club before. It offers a chance for students to develop new skills and explore the game. Matta emphasized that golf challenges both the mind and body: “Most people argue that it’s not a sport, but I like to say it’s the hardest game that’s ever existed on planet Earth. For athletes, it’s a different kind of challenge… It’s a mental game.” Her statement highlights how golf is more than just a game. Golf teaches patience, focus, and hard work, and it challenges both the mind and body. The lessons golfers learn may apply in school, hobbies, and other parts of life. 

Previously, the team had to commute off-campus to Baylands to practice putting, which limited their time for skill development. With the new putting green, players can now improve their short game right on campus. “We’ll be practicing there at least twice a week. On other days, we’ll either be in a match or practicing at the Stanford Driving Range,” Matta explained.

The putting green is more than just a training facility—it is a reminder of the dedication and discipline behind the sport. Coach Matta hopes students and faculty will see the effort that goes into every swing, especially the short game, which is often overlooked in golf. 

By having a putting green on campus, golf is able to be more accessible to everyone. Students can experience the game firsthand. The putting green opens opportunities for growth and the kind of focus and patience that golf uniquely fosters. With this addition, golf is no longer a remote or an off campus activity; it is right here, ready to inspire new players.