The new Golf and Softball Training Center, located on Loyola University Chicago’s Lake Shore Campus, is a dynamic example of adaptive reuse. The facility was created by transforming a former theater—originally opened in 1968 and active until 2012—into a modern, integrated training environment for Loyola student-athletes. Rather than pursue new construction, the University chose a more sustainable and cost-effective approach by renovating an existing campus space. This decision also strengthened the Facility’s goal of keeping student-athletes connected, thanks to its direct link to both the Alfie Norville Practice Facility and the Norville Center.
RDG Planning & Design led the architectural design of the Center, continuing their work from the adjacent Alfie Norville Practice Facility. Power Construction served as the construction partner and has delivered numerous major projects for Loyola, including the Alfie Norville Practice Facility, Norville Center, and Damen Student Center.
Second Floor
The second floor features a dedicated team meeting room and the Loyola Softball office suite, which connects directly to the second floor of The Alfie Practice Facility.
First Floor – Home of Loyola Softball
Also connected to The Alfie, the first floor is home to Loyola Softball and includes approximately 4,500 square feet of high-performance synthetic turf. Student-athletes have access to two batting cages, two dedicated pitching lanes, and a state-of-the-art HitTrax radar system that provides advanced hitting and pitching analytics. The floor also includes a touch-down team space (for helmets, bat bags, gear, etc…), restrooms, and dedicated equipment storage.
Lower Level – Home of Men’s & Women’s Golf
The lower level, accessible from The Alfie as well, serves Loyola’s men’s and women’s golf programs. The space includes 2,500 square feet of putting and chipping turf and four premium simulation bays equipped with TrackMan radar technology for swing analysis and virtual play. Golfers also benefit from a SAM PuttLab system to refine their putting mechanics. The level features locker rooms for both teams, coaching offices, and dedicated storage.
