Named in honor of TDTD Founder and President Emeritus, this award was presented by TDTD Junior Chairperson Jenny Bethune in recognition of the Foundation’s outstanding mentorship, golf instruction and revitalization of Maggie Hathaway GC.
“The SCGA Junior Golf Foundation has been an amazing partner to Tee Divas and Tee Dudes,” Bethune said. “We know that we can put our kids in their hands, and they’ll not only learn how to play golf but also receive scholarship opportunities, mentoring and attend college campuses on visits. The SCGA Junior Golf Foundation is just opening the doors to so many possibilities about things the kids can do in their lives.”
In his acceptance speech, SCGA Junior Golf Foundation Executive Director Kevin Gigax expressed gratitude for the honor and underscored the value of collaborative partnerships. “We thank Tee Diva & Tee Dudes for their belief in us,” he said. “We achieve this work together with our community partners. Our efforts to revitalize and invest in local golf programming and instruction underscores our belief that every kid, no matter their circumstances, should have real access and opportunities in golf.”
To give a firsthand account of the Foundation’s positive impact, SCGA junior golfer Alysa Davis reflected on some of her favorite memories. “Through the SCGA, I’ve had the opportunity to be on the cover of a regional magazine with PGA major winner Collin Morikawa, walk inside the ropes of an LPGA tournament alongside Lexi Thompson and Patty Tavatanakit, attend USGA promotional events where the CEO of the USGA was my caddy, and play on prestigious golf courses such as Los Angeles Country Club where the US Open was held.”
Also during the celebration, two SCGA Juniors, Dontya Bell and Monique Thomas, were recognized as the most improved golfers of 2023. In her acceptance speech, Thomas said, “It has been refreshing and empowering to see Black and brown golfers that look like me throughout my youth golf journey.”
The event, organized by TDTD, brought together state and city leaders, junior golfers and other members of the community to celebrate the rich history and contributions of Black golfers to the region and to promote diversity and inclusion while honoring the achievements of Black golfers past, present and future.
We are so grateful to our partners for recognizing our collaborative work to grow the game across Southern California, providing opportunities and life skills to all who pick up a club.
