News Summary
Augusta University recently inaugurated the Alvin and Yvette Harris Sports Performance Center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Christenberry Fieldhouse. This facility is set to enhance training resources for student-athletes, supporting their athletic development. Equipped with advanced facilities, the center promises significant improvements in training environments. Under the leadership of new Head Coach Kyle Smith, student-athletes like golfer Chapman Barnett have already expressed the positive impact on their training and teamwork, marking a new chapter for Augusta’s athletic programs.
Augusta, Georgia – Augusta University recently celebrated the grand opening of the Alvin and Yvette Harris Sports Performance Center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony held at Christenberry Fieldhouse. This new facility aims to provide student-athletes with enhanced training resources to support their athletic development.
The Sports Performance Center is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities designed to facilitate rigorous training regimes and physically demanding workouts that will substantially improve student-athletes’ performance capabilities. The opening of this center marks a significant milestone for Augusta University’s athletic programs, providing necessary upgrades to their training environment.
This year also marks the inaugural year for Head Coach Kyle Smith, who stepped into this leadership role after serving as the assistant coach for four seasons. Coach Smith is expected to leverage this new facility to invigorate the training programs and strengthen the performance of the teams under his guidance.
Student-athlete Chapman Barnett, who plays on the men’s golf team, highlighted the positive impact the facility has had on both training and team cohesion. He indicated that the modern equipment and expanded training options have transformed their workout sessions. Exercises that were not feasible in their former training space can now be conducted effectively, enhancing overall physical performance and teamwork.
Barnett described the experience of utilizing the new training equipment as “unbelievable,” emphasizing that it fosters a greater sense of camaraderie among teammates. The environmental improvements are not just about physical training; they create opportunities for athletes to uplift each other and dedicate quality time together, which is hugely beneficial for team spirit and collaboration.
The ribbon-cutting event attracted attention from various stakeholders, including university officials, local community members, and athletic program supporters, all of whom recognized the significance of the new center in advancing the quality of training for student-athletes. The commitment to providing top-tier training environments reflects Augusta University’s broader goal to elevate its athletic programs at both state and national levels.
The establishment of the Alvin and Yvette Harris Sports Performance Center represents a considerable investment in the future of Augusta University’s student-athletes, providing them with the necessary tools and a conducive environment to enhance their athletic skills. The facility is expected to be widely utilized by various sports programs, empowering not only the golf team but also all athletes at the university.
This initiative aligns with the university’s mission to facilitate educational excellence alongside athletic growth, ensuring students not only excel in their studies but also achieve their potential in sports. With the new Sports Performance Center, Augusta University is affirming its commitment to nurturing talent and fostering an environment where student-athletes can thrive.
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Additional Resources
- WRDW: Augusta University Cuts Ribbon on New Sports Performance Center
- Augusta Jags: Major Softball Facility Upgrades
- WFXG: Augusta University’s Sports Management Program Gains Momentum
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Sports Management
- Augusta Chronicle: New Augusta Tennis and Pickleball Courts
- Google News: Augusta University Sports Performance Center

Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.


