TWIG Kidz 25th anniversary

What is one special memory or experience from your time as TWIG Kidz Chairperson that still stands out to you?

“While my time as Chairperson provided countless memorable moments, one particular experience remains deeply special to me: an unexpected moment when a golf instructor specifically requested to work one-on-one with a TWIG KID.”

How did you see the girls grow—in their golf skills, confidence, leadership, or friendships—during your time with the program?

“Seeing her confidence skyrocket after that camp was a hilarious, humble reminder to never underestimate what a little dedicated coaching, a group of women dedicated to helping young ladies learn golf—and a whole lot of grit—can do.”

As TWIG Kidz celebrates 25 years, what message would you like to share with former, current, and future participants?

“Take lessons learned on the fairway and apply them to college, careers, and leadership in your community.  Golf, like life, challenges you, tests your patience, and sometimes surprises you.  Always hold your head high, trust your swing, and know you belong in every room, at every table, and on every course.”

What is one special memory or experience from your time as TWIG Kidz Chairperson that still stands out to you?

“The trip to the 2014 Women’s U.S. Open in Pinehurst, NC has left a special memory that I’m sure is shared by the girls and the TWIG members who attended. The excitement was palpable, as was their pride in being a ‘golfer’ amongst golfers at a major professional tournament. They experienced watching and receiving autographs from pros, and received golf tips from previous U.S. Open golf legends. Additionally, they were able to see 11-year-old player Lucy Li, African American players Cheyenne Woods and Sierra Sims.”

How did you see the girls grow—in their golf skills, confidence, leadership, or friendships—during your time with the program?

“Their golf skills improved greatly when they transitioned from lessons at a driving range, where they refined there driving and chipping and putting skills, to the Wildwood Green Golf course. The primary focus at the course was to teach the girls how to play golf, learn the rules of the game, etiquette, and scorekeeping. They were separated into groups by skill level which allowed for more individual improvement. Each year, they played in the annual TWIG Kidz Captain’s Choice Tournament. Their skills were on full display as they confidently competed against one another for 9 holes. “ 

As TWIG Kidz celebrates 25 years, what message would you like to share with former, current, and future participants?

“Former participants: Use your golf skills to socialize and network, mentor younger golfers by sharing your experience and knowledge, and volunteer with TWIG."

"Current participants: Have fun and make friends, get good grades, hone your skills, and strive for a golf scholarship and inclusion on a college team."

"All participants: Acknowledge your greatness and know that you belong in every space.”
 

What is one special memory or experience from your time as TWIG Kidz Chairperson that still stands out to you?

“Hosting their 2014-2024 closing ceremonies each year and hearing how each kid used Eat That Frog goal setting/achievement steps.”

How did you see the girls grow—in their golf skills, confidence, leadership, or friendships—during your time with the program?

“Published their "TWIG Kidz Character Building Playbook" and mentoring them through the golf season to successfully complete their books.”

As TWIG Kidz celebrates 25 years, what message would you like to share with former, current, and future participants?

“Continue to use golf as a stepping stone in your lives to develop mental strength and remove all of life's obstacles.”

What is one special memory or experience from your time as TWIG Kidz chairperson that stands out to you?

“What stands out most is watching the girls grow step by step - from learning how to hold a club, to making contact with the ball, to eventually hitting it 100 yards or more. Seeing their faces light up with pride and delight when they hit the ball successfully for the first time is a memory that never gets old”

How did you see the girls grow in their golf skills, confidence, leadership, or friendships during their time with the program?

“Each year, when returning participants came back, there was a natural sense of confidence and ease in the way they approached the program. That confidence often allowed them to guide, encourage, and share their experiences with girls who were new to TWIG Kidz. Friendships also developed naturally as the girls learned to interact with one another, celebrate each other's progress, and cheer each other on.”

As TWIG Kidz celebrates 25 years, what message would you like to share with former, current, and future participants?

“To current participants, I would encourage you to use golf as a building block for your future - whether as an extracurricular activity, a source of fun, a way to strengthen your resume, or a skill you can continue to enjoy and develop throughout your life.”

“To future participants, remember that golf continues to grow as a sport. It is becoming more competitive, more challenging, and more demanding as the years pass. The number of players continues to increase, while academies, teaching institutions, and golf programs continue to expand. Follow the game, follow the sport, and stay up to date on the changes in golf. Pay attention not only to how the game can shape your own life, but also to the ways it can strengthen and influence the communities in which you live.”