First Tee Northern Nevada announced it will break ground on January 6 for the First Tee Project at Wildcreek, marking a significant development for the Wildcreek Golf Course. The project aims to establish a new golf and learning center at the longstanding Sparks location.
The First Tee is a nonprofit organization dedicated to youth development through golf, providing educational programs that build character and instill life-enhancing values. Since its inception in 1998, First Tee Northern Nevada has reached thousands of young people across various locations.
Phase 1 of the Wildcreek project will introduce a new driving range, a 9-hole championship course, and a renovated 9-hole executive course. These facilities will be available to First Tee participants and the general public at affordable rates. The first phase is expected to conclude in late fall 2025, necessitating a temporary closure of the golf course.
“Over the past two years, the community has responded, and we are 90 percent in meeting our fundraising goals, making this dream a reality,” said Chris Mazzaferri, CEO of First Tee Northern Nevada. “This new facility is our community’s opportunity to make a transformational investment in a permanent home for First Tee to help kids better understand themselves through interactive games, and immersive golf skills & exercises.”
The entire renovation is budgeted at $16 million, partially funded by the County’s land sale to the School District. Major donors contributing $100,000 or more include the E. L. Cord Foundation, the Bretzlaff Foundation, and the Gaston Sheehan Trust, among others.
Phase 2 will feature a new learning center for year-round programming, a renovated clubhouse with a public restaurant, pro shop, and restrooms, and new administrative offices. A multi-tier driving range, the first in the Reno/Sparks area, is also planned.
Mazzaferri credited Washoe County, the City of Sparks, and the Washoe County School District for their support in the public-private partnership. The acquisition of Wildcreek began in 2021 when the Washoe County Commission transferred ownership to First Tee Northern Nevada.
Mazz Golf Management will continue to operate Wildcreek, which will remain open to the public post-construction. The new Hug High School was built on part of the old Wildcreek Championship Golf Course, a decision made for cost-effectiveness.
The Wildcreek Project will make First Tee Northern Nevada one of the few chapters nationwide to own and operate a public golf course. The organization serves about 1,100 students on-course and reaches 30,000 through in-school programs.
