Category: News

LION STAR ACADEMY 

We recently began a 6-week Fall special needs golf program in partnership with Lion Star Academy. Sixteen students will participate in the program held at their academy in Coral Springs.

Lion Star Academy is a special needs school that offers a loving environment and specialized learning for extraordinary students to discover their unique gifts.

First Tee-Broward Coach Robert Ferzoco leads the golf activities with help from numerous staff and councilors.   SHOUT OUT to Director Lisa Bennett and the entire staff and volunteers for making this program possible for these deserving students.

CELEBRATING TEAM SPIRIT

We hosted a spectacular PGA Junior League Draft Party at AllGolf at CB Smith Park. The event brought together young golfers, their families, and coaches for an evening filled with excitement, camaraderie, and a shared passion for the game. The event marked the official start of the fall season, setting the tone for what promises to be an unforgettable journey in youth golf.

Here’s to a fantastic PGA Junior League season filled with growth, learning, and plenty of birdies!

VETS PROGRAMS ARE THRIVING

PGA HOPE veterans’ program has begun at Palm-Aire Country Club in Pompano Beach. Twenty-one veterans are attending the program held on the practice area at the Oaks and Cypress Courses. The program will run through September and October.

We are delighted to share the success of our recent veterans’ golf class held at AllGolf at C.B. Smith Park. The class concluded with a wonderful display of progress and camaraderie. We are proud to support our nation’s heroes and look forward to continuing this program and enriching lives through the game of golf.

STUDENTS CAN APPLY FOR USGA GRANTS

The U.S. National Development Program provides a pathway to success in golf by delivering competitive opportunities, support, and training that develops American golf talent and reduces any financial burdens.

With key strategic partners, host venues, and champions, the USNDP provides education, experiences, and mentorship that help athletes achieve success at each level.

The USGA is committed to fostering a positive and healthy pathway for American golfers to follow their dreams and reach the pinnacle of the sport.

Please visit the U.S. National Development Program website to apply.

SIP, SWIRL, SAVOR: CAYMUS WINE TASTING

You are invited to our Sip, Swirl, Savor: Wine Tasting Fundraiser Extravaganza. October 15th at the spectacular Lauderdale Yacht Club. This special evening will be presented by Caymus Vineyards, our distinguished Presenting Wine Sponsor. 

The evening will feature an exquisite selection of wines from Caymus Vineyards, including:

CAYMUS CABERNET SAUVIGNON ‘22 | CALIFORNIA

CAYMUS SUISUN WALKING FOOL RED ‘22 | SUISUN VALLEY

MER SOLEIL CHARD RESERVE ’22 | MONTEREY

EMMOLO SAUVIGNON BLANC ’23 | SOLANO COUNTY

EMMOLO SPARKLING #7 | CALIFORNIA

And the highlight of the evening…

CAYMUS CAB SAUV 50TH ANNIVERSARY NAPA ‘22

Space is limited.  Please Register Now!

Sponsorships are available:

For more information, please contact Erica Bennett at [email protected]

100-HOLE CHALLENGE TIME!!

We had a fun time at our 100-Hole Challenge at Loop 19. The event was filled with friendly competition and plenty of smiles as everyone navigated the golf simulators. It was a day of impressive shots and enjoyable moments. Thank you to all our participants for making this event a success. We appreciate your enthusiasm and look forward to more fun events in the future!

The 2024 100-Hole Challenge goal is for each player to play a minimum of 100 holes of golf on a single day. Support one of our players by making a per hole pledge! 10 cents per hole is only a $10 donation.

We also offer a chance to win a trip to play and stay Pebble Beach!

Please visit our website for more information and to donate.

GREAT DAY AT ROYAL PALM

Our annual fall tournament was a fantastic success at Royal Palm Yacht & Country Club in September.

“We are very appreciative of the members and staff at Royal Palm for hosting our event. Our guests enjoyed the new golf course and the food was outstanding. We raised a lot of funds to support the children and veterans in our programs,” said Chapter President Greg Thompson.

The gross champions were the team of Colin List, Braden List, Wes Hitchcock and Michael Trombino (pictured above left).

The net champions were the team of Elias Angelopolous, Mark Brockelman, Derick Jaindl and Aaron Knafo.

Students were positioned on two par 3 holes to hit shots for our guests.  (Pictured below is Executive Director Carl Mistretta Jr. with students David Sandino, Haady Elneser and Andres Hernandez.)

THANK YOU TOURNAMENT SPONSORS

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CHEETAH EARNS 6TH AT US KIDS WORL

Chapter student Cheetah Baez is making waves in the junior golf circuit. With just under two years of experience, she’s already a force to be reckoned with.

Recently, Cheetah showcased her talent on the grandest stage in junior golf, the US KIDS World Championship at Pinehurst. Competing against over 2,300 young golfers worldwide, Cheetah displayed remarkable resilience, overcoming a challenging start to secure an impressive sixth-place finish in her age group. 

Her competitive spirit extends beyond the world stage. Cheetah has clinched the spring and summer local US KIDS Tour Championship in West Palm Beach and Stuart. Her exceptional skills earned her a spot in the sub-regional Drive, Chip and Putt competition. Cheetah also dominated the local qualifiers at Mirasol Country Club capturing blue ribbons for Drive, Chip, and Overall performance.

With a personal best of 3 under par, Cheetah recognizes several areas for improvement and is diligently working on her short game with her coaches Gabbie Budd, LPGA, and David Ladd. While she thrives on the thrill of competition, Cheetah’s true passion lies in the camaraderie shared with her golfing friends.

Cheetah’s inspiring journey is a testament to hard work, dedication, and a love for the game. She hopes to inspire more young girls to pick up a club and discover the joy of golf. As she wisely advises, golf is a lifelong journey that teaches patience, perseverance, and the importance of a well-defined process. Most importantly, Cheetah encourages everyone to have fun while chasing their golfing dreams.

Follow her story on Instagram

JOIN US AT THE SHORES OF NORTH RIVER GOLF CLUB

Get ready to tee off this school year with our popular after-school golf classes at The Shores of North River Golf Club.  Whether your child is an experienced golfer or just looking to try something new, our programs are designed for all ages and skill levels.

Under the expert guidance of Coach Gabbie, LPGA, students will have the opportunity to develop their golf skills, pursue goals, and grow through challenges. With classes available throughout the school year, there is plenty of time for practice and improvement.  The Shores is a fantastic course for kids to learn how to play!

For more information and to register, please visit our website.

For questions please contact Coach Gabbie at [email protected] 

YMCA SUMMER CAMP

YMCA Summer Golf Camp was a great success! The students engaged in multiple interactive games and activities facilitated by our enthusiastic Coaches. The hands-on approach made learning fun and fostered an appreciation of golf among the students.

One of the biggest highlights was our newest team member, Coach Chris, teaching campers the essentials of the full golf swing. With his expert guidance and encouragement, students learned the proper techniques that are fundamental to the game.