NEWS

Palm Beach Gardens, Fl - Leah Gram carded consecutive under-par rounds to win the girls division while Gatlin Albright defeated Brooks Hansen in a playoff to win the boys division at the Srixon South Florida PGA Medalist Tour event at PGA National Estates Course. Gram of Jupiter clinched her second consecutive Medalist Tour victory of the season with a 6-under total, 60-70–138. Gram managed only four bogeys, aiding in a six shot victory over Alexander Phung of Boca Raton and Petra Compton of Palmetto Bay with Phung taking second place honors in a scorecard playoff. Albright of Stuart and Hansen of Jupiter completed 36-holes tied at 1-over, forcing a sudden death playoff starting on the first hole. After a drive down the middle and with a wedge in hand Albright stuck it just inside of Hansen's ball, making the birdie putt to win the playoff. Beginning the day three shots back of Albright, Hansen managed the tournament low round in the boys division with 3-under 69 to tie Albright. In addition to the 36-hole tournament, Saturday’s opening round also served as a qualifier for South Florida Junior PGA Championship, with 17 of boys and five girls qualifying. Boys: Michael Vivone, Nicholas Lehto, Jack Rose, Wylie Inman, Brooks Hansen, Matthew Stigliano, Clint Lewis, Ethan Sullivan, Brett Shaw, Nathan Crawford, Grady Albertson Luke Harrigan, Orlando Torres, Jj Hyun Her, Cooper Roth, Jack Zeder and Kenny Klein. Girls: Madison Hyndman, Alexandra Phung, Petra Compton, Danielle Hernandez and Mia Heuberger. The South Florida Junior PGA Championship will take place June 16-17 at Stonebridge Country Club with the top-2 boys and girls advancing to the National Junior PGA Championships. The Medalist Tour season will continue April 26-27 at Indian Spring Country Club. Leaderboard

Port St. Lucie, FL - Joshua Fleming, Jj Hyun Her and Lilly Parker won the fifth Srixon South Florida PGA Medalist Tour event of the season, played April 5-6 at Santa Lucia River Club

South Florida PGA Junior Tour Alumni Spotlight  For many young golfers, competing at the collegiate level and beyond is a distant goal. For one alumni, that dream became a reality, and his journey through junior golf, college athletics, and into a professional role with the LPGA is truly inspiring. For Drew Steiner, a former South Florida PGA Junior Tour Member and current Player Content Producer at the LPGA, one moment stands out in his junior golf career: winning the 1st Annual SFPGA High School Championship with the Spanish River High team. The victory at Qual Ridge Country Club reinforced the teams talent but it was the comradeira shared that aided in the win. Spanish River was the strongest in the field and Steiner led the way, capturing the overall Individual Boys Championship with a 1-under par performance. "It wasn’t just about winning; it was about how strong we were as a team," Steiner shared. "Winning that event together really showed us how much potential we had as a group." The moment was more than just winning a golf tournament, it further helped him secure a spot on the Lafayette College men’s Golf Team, allowing Steiner to fulfill his dream of playing Division 1 golf. "It gave me the confidence to pursue my goal of playing college golf," he explained. "And doing it with my teammates was a perfect way to prepare for the next chapter." As he transitioned to college golf, the experience playing on a competitive, high-caliber team became even more valuable. "I loved the camaraderie of college golf. It’s just more fun to win as a team than individually,” Steiner recalled. Unlike many who stumble upon the idea of college golf too late, Steiner always knew it was where he wanted to be. "I played all sports up until high school, but once I focused on golf, I knew that was the path," he reflected. "My goal from eighth grade onward was to play college golf and use the sport as a vehicle to get a great education." College golf, especially at the Division I level, was everything he expected. "It wasn’t just about golf. It was about the connections you make, the experiences, and the opportunities that come from being a part of a program." However, the transition from high school to collegiate athletics wasn’t without its challenges. "When you get to college, you realize it’s not just about showing up to class. You have to manage your time, juggle schoolwork, and maximize your practice time," he explained. "Coming from Florida to the Northeast also meant adjusting to the weather, which was a huge change for me." Despite these challenges, Steiner thrived in the competitive atmosphere and loved the camaraderie of the team. "If you're surrounded by good people and teammates, it makes it all worthwhile." During his time at Lafayette in which he graduated in 2022 with a degree in Film and Media Studies, Steiner was an active member of the men’s golf team, further cultivating his passion for both the game and media. It was during this time that his two passions—golf and media—began to converge, ultimately guiding him toward his professional career. Looking back, Steiner knew he was fortunate to work with mentors like John Brooks and Shane Riser, who guided him through the recruiting process, and he looks to share that same knowledge. "Don’t be afraid to reach out to coaches, whether at Division I, II, or III schools. While also being aware of the player you are, the education you want to receive and if you wish to continue to work towards a tour card. The key is getting exposure, and you need to play on competitive teams to get better, no matter the level,” he explained. He also emphasized the importance of choosing a school that fits you, beyond just the golf program. "Go visit the campus. Make sure you like the dining halls, the facilities, and everything around the school. You need to imagine what it’s like in all (weather) seasons." After graduating from Lafayette, Drew was ready to take on the world. Initially pursuing a career in sports journalism, he eventually shifted gears to focus on social media and content creation within the world of golf. Steiner’s journey took him to the PGA of America and the PGA Tour before landing his current role with the LPGA. "I’ve been with the LPGA for a year now, and my day-to-day involves creating video content for player channels—hype videos, graphics, and other creative pieces," he shared. With 13-15 events a year to cover, his job allows him to travel, meet amazing people, and experience the sport in a whole new light. "It wasn’t a planned transition, but I’ve learned so much and I’ve just been taking it all in day by day." Reflecting on his journey, Drew credits much of his success to the experiences and connections he gained both on and off the golf course. From the lessons learned in junior golf to the valuable connections made in college, it’s clear that his time spent in the game has shaped his career path. For any young athlete aspiring to follow in his footsteps, his advice is simple: "Maximize every opportunity. Whether you’re playing junior golf, going through the recruiting process, or figuring out your career path, take advantage of the resources around you." As Steiner continues his work with the LPGA, it's evident that his passion for golf—both as a player and now in the industry—has taken him to new heights… And the journey is just getting started.

Lake Worth, FL - Brandon Rinker, Mia Heuberger, and Reed Abdelnour won their respective age divisions during the South Florida PGA Medalist event, March 22-23 at Park Ridge Golf Course.

The South Florida PGA Junior Tour began recognizing a junior boy and girl annually in 2006 for displaying extraordinary sportsmanship with the Ed Ficker Sportsmanship Award. The award was established as a gesture to Ficker, his commitment to the South Florida PGA, the South Florida community, and his 41 years as the PGA Head Professional at Tequesta Country Club. “He was simply an incredible guy,” recalled Don Law, PGA of Don Law Golf Academy and a 2013 SFPGA Hall of Fame inductee. “He was one of the nicest humans you will ever meet in your life.” In 1965, Ficker took over as the club’s second head golf professional, succeeding Dow Finsterwald, who enjoyed a very successful playing career, proudly displaying his 1958 PGA Championship Wanamaker Trophy in the golf shop. Ficker stayed loyal to Tequesta, serving 41 years until his retirement in 2006. Following his retirement, the award was created and included in the South Florida PGA Junior Tour’s Annual Award honors. Since then, several recipients have gone on to work in the golf industry, including Matt Cahill, PGA, a 2008 Ed Ficker Sportsmanship award recipient and current Head Golf Professional at Seminole Golf Club. As a young junior golfer, it is difficult to expect one to know or understand the impact a retired golf professional had, but that is what raised the curiosity for Cahill to learn more. “I wanted to really find out what he stood for and learn about his life,” explained Cahill. “I was blown away at how much he gave back to the game of golf and the community. Not just going to work each day as a club professional, but spending time to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.” Samantha (Coleman) Lodigiani, PGA, a 2011 award recipient, went on to study Professional Golf Management at Florida Gulf Coast University and is currently an Assistant Professional at Babcock National Golf Club. And, Danny Green, a current University of Florida student, and 2021 award recipient. Green grew up as a member of Tequesta, and when he received the recognition, Ficker arranged a dinner to spend extra time with Green. “Dinner was wonderful, and he was kind, attentive, and very knowledgeable,” explained Green. “Mr. Ficker was a great man. I am honored to carry on his legacy.” The names featured above are just a few examples of individuals of whom Ficker had a positive impact on. The range of effects Ficker had is unmeasurable, and the Annual Ed Ficker Sportsmanship Award is a small indication of our appreciation. "Ed Ficker was the consummate PGA Professional and one of the most respected PGA members not just in South Florida but the entire country. Honoring and carrying on his legacy with the Sportsmanship award is a small way we can ensure the impact of Ed Ficker will never be forgotten," said South Florida PGA Executive Director Geoff Lofstead. All Award Winners: 2024: Boy: Thomas Nevico Girl: Eva Lye 2023: Boy: Alex Greer Girl: Dounia Bezzari 2022: Boy: Danny Green Girl: Punchy Mahathep 2021: Boy: Michael Rivera Girl: Ariana Silva 2020: Boy: Chase Cohen Girl: Erin Marcelino 2019: Boy: Matthew Myers Girl: Madyson Gold 2018: Boy: Chase Scholze Girl: Kelli Kragh 2015 Boy: Joe Lewis Girl: Jillian Bourdage 2014 Boy: Timothy Simpson Girl: Emily Faulkner 2013 Boy: Matt Newman Girl: Mary Janiga 2012 Boy: Robert Butler Girl: Radi Sauro 2011 Boy: Jackson Schoenfelt Girl: Samantha Coleman 2010 Boy: Harley Abrams Girl: Annie Dulman 2009 Boy: Jaime Rodriguez Girl: Ashley Burke 2008 Boy: Matthew Cahill Girl: Julie Olmo 2007 Boy: Derek Wilcox Girl: Christina Amoriello 2006 Boy: Ben Vertz Girl: Kristen Hill

Boca Raton, FL - Gabriel Holtz and Leah Gram won the Srixon South Florida PGA Junior Medalist Tour event, played March 8-9 at Osprey Point Golf Course. Gram of Jupiter managed a two-day total of 7-under, the lowest total score of anyone in the field, boys or girls. The performance sealed her 4th victory on the Medalist Tour and marked her best two-day total since joining the Tour in 2021. Gram led the girl's division in birdies with 14, seven more than the closest competitor.

West Palm Beach, FL - The South Florida PGA Junior Tour has teamed up with Srixon, agreeing on a three-year partnership as the presenting partner of the SFPGA Junior Tour. The partnership will enhance the ability of the SFPGA Junior Tour, now the Srixon South Florida PGA Junior Tour, to deliver first-class, competitive, and fun tournaments hosted at prestigious South Florida facilities for juniors. “We are excited to join forces with the Srixon team,” said South Florida PGA Assistant Executive Director Meredith Schuler. “Between the commitment given at the Section Level to our South Florida PGA Professionals and now the relationship with our Junior Tour, we are confident this partnership will raise the standard and professionalism of all Junior events while further promoting our mission.” The announcement is shared as the Junior Tour is coming off celebrating its 25th year anniversary in 2024, where a record number of members was set at over 1,300. In this partnership, the SFPGA will look to set another record high as each event administered this year has included a sellout field. “Srixon is proud to partner with the South Florida PGA Junior Tour and support the next generation of talented golfers,” said Srixon’s Marketing Communications Director Noelle Zavaleta. “This partnership aligns with our commitment to growing the game by providing young players with premier competitive opportunities and access to top-tier equipment. We look forward to seeing these juniors develop their skills and passion for golf through the SFPGA Junior Tour.” Along with being the presenting partner, the Medalist and Prep Tour Player of the Year Points race, which annually recognizes the top male and female juniors in their respective age divisions, will be renamed the Srixon Player of the Year Points Race. The South Florida PGA Junior Tour falls under the umbrella of the South Florida PGA and its 501-c-3 not-for-profit, the South Florida PGA Foundation. The Junior Tour is composed of three separate Tours, each offering a different experience based on the level of play. ABOUT the South Florida PGA: The South Florida PGA Section is an association of golf professionals whose mission is to promote interest, participation, and enjoyment in golf, establish and maintain professional standards of practice, and enhance the well-being of golf professionals. Over 2,000 PGA members and associates are employed at over 375 facilities in the South Florida Section, ranking as the second largest Section amongst all 41 PGA Sections in the United States. Giving back, changing lives, and growing the game – that is the mission of the South Florida PGA Foundation, the charitable arm of the South Florida PGA. This mission has been carried out by enhancing the lives of youth, families, and military, on and off the golf course. The Srixon South Florida PGA Junior Tour has a membership of more than 1,300 junior golfers ages 6-18 and conducts nearly 100 events annually. We strive to provide opportunities to those juniors who possess the potential skill and aspirations to compete at the high school and/or collegiate level, in addition to those who are new to the game. ABOUT Dunlop Sports Americas: Based in Huntington Beach, CA and Greenville, SC, Dunlop Sports Americas (DSA) is the North American subsidiary of Sumitomo Rubber Industries, Ltd. We manufacture and sell premium golf and racket sports equipment to players of all skill levels under a portfolio of brands: Dunlop, Srixon, Cleveland Golf, and XXIO. DSA is also a licensed exclusive distributor of ASICS golf footwear. Our unique global sales network and infrastructure in R&D, manufacturing, and material science elevates our brands onto a global stage where we encourage players from around the world to experience our incredible products. For more information, please contact Noelle Zavaleta at noellezavaleta@srixon.com .

Boynton Beach, FL - Reed Abdelnour, Gatlin Albright and Maddie Roach won the Srixon South Florida PGA Medalist Tour event, played February 15-16 at The Links at Boynton Beach.

Vero Beach, FL - Reed Abdelnour, Matthew Marigliano, and Mila Zalsman won their respective age divisions during the South Florida PGA Medalist event, February 1-2 at Sandridge Golf Club - Dunes Course. Abdelnour, a 2031 graduate and West Palm Beach resident, fired a tournament-low 6-under 66 in the final round, managing a clean scorecard en route to winning the boys 11-12 division by 12 shots. Abdelnour wrapped the 36-hole-event at 5-under 73-66–139, only one of two players in the entire field to finish under-par. Simon Bustos of Chattanooga, Tennessee, finished in second at 7-over, while Palmer Buchanan of Port St. Lucie finished in third at 8-over. Marigliano, the reigning SFPGA Medalist Tour Player of the Year, captured a come-from-behind victory in the boys 13-18 division after an opening round of 3-over 75. The 2029 graduate entered the final round four shots behind Hogan Blais of Ottawa, Ontario. Marigliano bounced back with a bogey-free, 4-under 68 to claim the title by four over Blais and Martin Bustos of Chattanooga, Tennessee, who finished in a tie for second at 3-over. Bustos ultimately earned second-place honors, beating out Blais in a scorecard playoff. Zalsman of Saint Petersburg narrowly captured the girls 13-18 division by one shot after a close battle with Nicole Wu of Davie. After an opening round of 1-over 73, Zalsman held a four-shot lead over Wu heading into the final 18 holes. Wu managed an even-par 72, the tournament low round in the girls division, but a 3-over 75 by Zalsman was just enough to claim the wire-to-wire victory at 4-over, 73-75–148. The South Florida PGA Medalist Tour welcomed 62 boys and 25 girls, competing over three age divisions at Sandridge Golf Club’s Dunes Course. The SFPGA Medalist Tour is the premier membership-based junior golf program of the South Florida PGA Section. The Medalist Tour season will continue February 15-16 at The Links at Boynton Beach. Leaderboard