In a landmark initiative that promises to expand educational and recreational access for youth in the Augusta area, Augusta National Golf Club and five-time Masters champion Tiger Woods have announced a long-term partnership to deliver high-quality STEAM programming and affordable golf opportunities to the local community.

Through a collaboration with Woods’ nonprofit, the TGR Foundation, and his course architecture firm TGR Design, the partnership will bring two major developments to Augusta:

1. A TGR Learning Lab, to be built at the former site of Lamar Elementary School, offering free year-round STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) enrichment, health and wellness programming, and college and career readiness resources to students in Richmond County and surrounding CSRA districts.

2. A major renovation of the Augusta Municipal Golf Course (The Patch), including a new 9-hole short course called The Loop at The Patch designed by TGR Design, and a reimagined 18-hole course led by renowned golf course architects Tom Fazio and Beau Welling. 

“This partnership reflects a shared commitment to investing in Augusta’s future,” said Fred Ridley, Chairman of Augusta National Golf Club and the Masters Tournament. “We are proud to work with Tiger Woods and the TGR Foundation to provide meaningful educational opportunities and create accessible pathways into the game and industry of golf.” 

Tiger Woods echoed the sentiment, calling the project “a transformational opportunity” for Augusta. “My passion for education and golf has always guided the mission of the TGR Foundation. I’m proud to partner with Augusta National to deliver free, high-impact programming and affordable access to golf where it matters most—at the community level.” 

The TGR Learning Lab in Augusta is scheduled to open in April 2028, with in-school curriculum, community events, and educational programs launching in advance. The Lab will serve as a hub for youth empowerment, offering cutting-edge learning environments and mentorship for students from under-resourced communities.

Simultaneously, The Patch Project, LLC, a collaboration between Augusta Technical College, The First Tee of Augusta, and Masters Tournament Charities, Inc., will oversee the revitalization of the municipal course. The initiative will not only enhance public golf facilities but also provide workforce development opportunities in turf management, hospitality, and sports management—creating a direct pipeline to careers in the golf industry.

"Augusta Technical College’s mission is to build a skilled workforce and economically stronger communities and these two major initiatives show a deep commitment to addressing workforce needs while driving regional economic progress," stated Dr. Melissa Frank-Alston, Interim President for Augusta Technical College. "The College has positioned itself as a key player in workforce development, especially with its specialized programs like golf course management dating back to 1998 which reflects how the institution not only meets industry needs, but also produces the next generation of golf’s workforce."

The project brings together education, recreation, and workforce development in a historic and community-driven endeavor. By combining the legacies of Augusta National and Tiger Woods with local institutions, this partnership is set to inspire and uplift future generations in Augusta and beyond.