SCGA Staff Tours Maggie Hathaway GC Construction Site

The SCGA Junior Golf Foundation team recently had the opportunity to tour Maggie Hathaway GC, the 9-hole course in Southwest Los Angeles which is being rejuvenated thanks to the success of the 2023 FORE Youth Community Legacy Campaign. A special thank you to Kevin Gigax, Pat Gradoville and Tommy Naccarato for educating our staff and giving us a sneak peak of what is to come once the course is fully rejuvenated!

Program Coordinator Shani Waite, who grew up playing at Maggie Hathaway GC, shared her perspective on the visit.

I had the incredible opportunity recently to tour the renovation site of our city’s beloved golf course, and I have to say—I was truly blown away. The sheer amount of progress and the incredible work already completed left me in awe. What struck me most was hearing about the level of thought and care that’s gone into every detail: from the specific placement of each tree and the sculpting of the greens to the underground sprinkler systems and the reimagined layout of the driving range. Most inspiring of all is the intentional design focused on making every golfer feel welcomed, all while showcasing the breathtaking views our city is known for, such as the Hollywood sign.

I’ve never had the chance to see a golf course renovation up close before, and it was genuinely eye-opening. I hadn’t realized just how extensive and intricate the process would be. Honestly, at one point I found myself thinking I should buy lunch for every single worker there, they deserve it!

When I first arrived on site, I felt a bit emotional. This was the very first golf course I ever played and it holds a special place in my heart with so many memories from my childhood. As we walked through the evolving landscape, I couldn’t help but reflect on those moments. But by the end of the tour, after seeing the vision and heart behind the redesign, I felt an overwhelming sense of hope and excitement. I can already imagine the new memories our juniors will soon be making here.

I’m so grateful to be part of this journey—it truly feels like a full-circle moment.

-Shani Waite