The women of Canyon Crest CC, the Mission Hills Women’s Club and the Associated Women’s Golfers of Annandale each came together to kick off the year supporting a special cause. The Long Drive for Girls Golf is a fundraising initiative where SCGA member clubs raise funds to support the SCGA Junior Golf Foundation’s girls programming and an annually named Deb Long Scholar.
Starting in February, Canyon Crest CC hosted their debut Long Drive event, inviting two of our Riverside community Girls Golf coaches out for a round of golf and to speak about their involvement with SCGA Junior.
Lexie Houchens joined SCGA Junior programming at the age of 15, eventually earning a college scholarship, and shared her experiences at Canyon Crest’s event.
“When I was 15, I became an SCGA Junior member which allowed me access to practice more,” said Lexie. “I wasn’t the perfect golfer or perfect student, but the Foundation saw something special in me and had faith that I had a bright future ahead of me. The Foundation inspired me to be more involved in the golf community and, for that, I am forever grateful.
“In June of 2022, I was offered a coaching position, which was one of the best things to ever happen to me. I love that I have the ability to help them develop a love for golf at such a young age. I am truly grateful to have the opportunity to give back to a program that has given so much to me
March was another big month for the Long Drive with the Mission Hills Women’s Club bringing in $2,745 through their Mission Hills Cares initiative.
Additionally, the Associated Women’s Golfers of Annandale hosted their annual Spring Mixer. Raising a record amount of $4,780, the event brought out four SCGA Junior girls who participated in a five-hole scramble and post-round reception with a heartfelt speech from SCGA Junior member Sophia Martinez.
The support of SCGA women’s clubs allows SCGA Junior programs to engage and keep young women in golf.
“It’s because of you I am able to play golf, meet amazing players and gain valuable and unforgettable experiences,” says Martinez. “I first joined SGCA Junior when I was six years old and have been a member ever since [but] SCGA’s impact on my life goes beyond just golf. They have helped me to develop my personal and professional skills and prepare me for my next step – college.”
To learn more about how you can get your club involved with the Long Drive, contact Faith Bender at fbender@scga.org.