2026 Foundation Cup Junior Athletes
Meet your fourth group member! All juniors are fundraising to raise money for the SCGA Junior Golf Foundation. Visit their personal fundraising page linked in their bio to help your junior meet their fundraising goal and win a prize! Don’t know who your junior player is yet? Contact Camille Mahlknecht at cmahlknecht@scga.org to find out!
Joshlyn Ayala
Index: +3.1
*RESERVED* Hi, my name is Joshlyn, and I recently graduated from Cal State LA, where I played on the women’s golf team. I first started playing golf because of my dad, who taught me the game and would bring me along to hit balls with my brother. I love golf because of the challenge and the mental side of the game. There is always that one great shot that keeps you coming back. My golf mentor is Lizette Salas. We come from similar Mexican backgrounds, and she is someone I can relate to and lean on for advice. My favorite course to play is Sandpiper, and my favorite club in the bag is my putter. Off the course, I volunteer with the SCGA and the Latina Golfers Association, and I also enjoy drawing and animating short stories. As I begin the next chapter of my journey, I plan to pursue professional golf while continuing to give back to the game that has given me so much.
Zebulon Barnes
Index: 1.8
*RESERVED* Hi, I’m Zebulon, and I’m a sophomore at Lincoln University of Missouri, where I study Business Administration and compete on the men’s golf team. Over the past year, balancing college golf and academics has taught me the importance of discipline, consistency, and the development of good habits. One of my proudest accomplishments was earning Dean’s List honors, a goal I had worked toward for many years. Off the course, I enjoy giving back through SCGA Junior and mentoring younger golfers, because I know firsthand the impact the game and the SCGA community can have on a young person. Looking ahead, I hope to pursue a career in business or real estate while continuing to grow as a golfer and leader.
Justin Brinkman
Hi, I’m Justin Brinkman, and this fall I’ll be a freshman at UC Santa Cruz. I recently completed my senior year as a member of the Peninsula High School golf team. Over the past year, I’ve learned that golf is about much more than scores. It’s about character, resilience, and building meaningful relationships. The game has given me lifelong friendships, incredible mentors, and opportunities to give back by coaching younger golfers in my community. As I begin college, I look forward to carrying forward the lessons golf has taught me: competing with integrity, leading with humility, and always valuing people over scorecards.
Kingston Cao
*RESERVED* Hi, I’m Kingston. I’ll be a freshman at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln this fall. My dad taught me how to play golf at a very young age, but I started to pursue golf competitively during the pandemic. I love the sport because it is one of the few sports where I have to learn to take complete responsibility for my actions. Outside of golf, I am a concert pianist. I also enjoy table tennis, swimming and running with my dad. In the future, I hope to continue working in the golf industry, and I plan to return to Los Angeles with my PGA License, prepared to share everything I’ve learned with the community I grew up in. Thank you for having me!
Jose Chavez
Index: 5.4
I’m Jose and this fall I’ll be attending Cerritos College. Golf has taught me the importance of patience, accountability, and thinking through challenges before making decisions. Through SCGA Junior, I’ve had the opportunity to build lifelong friendships, volunteer more than 100 hours, and experience some incredible moments, from working the SCGA Amateur to playing at Los Angeles Country Club. The game has shown me that relationships and how you carry yourself matter just as much as your score. I’m excited for this next chapter and look forward to continuing to give back to the game and the community that has given me so much.
Alysa Davis
Index: 5.1
My name is Alysa, and this fall I’ll be a sophomore at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, where I compete on the Women’s Golf Team. I’m majoring in Criminal Justice with a minor in Political Science and hope to attend law school after graduation. This past year, I was proud to maintain a strong GPA while balancing Division I golf and was accepted into the National Criminal Justice Honor Society. I first started playing golf by chance when I was five years old, and I love that every day on the course brings new challenges and new opportunities to connect with people. My golf mentor is Jenny Bethune, who has provided incredible support through the Tee Divas Tee Dudes program. My favorite course I’ve played is TPC Sawgrass, my favorite club is my putter, and off the course, I enjoy volunteering and spending time with my family. Thank you for supporting the SCGA Junior Golf Foundation! I look forward to meeting you and spending the day together!
Mitzi Duarte
Index: +3.2
*RESERVED* My name is Mitzi, and this fall I’ll be a senior at Cal State Fullerton, where I’ll continue competing on the Women’s Golf Team while studying Finance. I first started playing golf when my aunt and cousins took me to the driving range, and I quickly fell in love with the game. I love golf because of the connections I’ve made on and off the course and the opportunity to meet new people. This past year, I was proud to maintain a 3.56 GPA while balancing a demanding tournament schedule. My golf mentor is my friend Rachel, who has supported me throughout middle school, high school, and my college recruitment process. My favorite course I’ve played is Hillcrest Country Club, and my favorite club in the bag is my putter. Off the course, I enjoy watching movies and staying active by playing volleyball and pickleball. In the future, I hope to work in the sports industry.
Audrey Flores
Index: 3.9
My name is Audrey and in the fall I’ll be entering the 9th grade at Ramona HS. I first started playing golf when I was 6 years old when my dad’s friend first gave me a putter. I love this sport because it keeps me in nature, and getting to play beautiful courses is really cool. My golf mentor is my dad; he encourages me all the time and always makes time to take me to practice and to all my tournaments. My favorite course that I’ve played is the Catalina golf course, and my favorite club in the bag is my 7-iron. Off the course, I participate in band playing the clarinet, and I also like to watch baseball. In the future, I hope to play professionally on the LPGA Tour.
Leah Garcia
Index: 8.1
My name is Leah, and this fall I’ll be returning to Mt. San Antonio College for my second year, where I compete on the Women’s Golf Team while studying Business Administration. I first fell in love with golf because it gave me the opportunity to spend time with my dad and make lifelong friends. This past year, I was proud to maintain a 3.8 GPA while competing in 16 tournaments during a demanding season. I enjoy volunteering with SCGA Junior Girls Golf classes, where I get to help introduce young golfers to the game and gain experience toward my goal of becoming a golf coach. In the future, I hope to open my own training facility for young athletes and eventually coach golf in Pebble Beach.
Marie Hines
Index: 20
My name is Marie, and in the fall, I’ll be a senior in high school. I first started playing golf in 2023. I love golf because I get to meet new friends. Playing at different golf courses grows my technical skills. My great-grandfather played golf, and we talk about the game. My golf mentors are my SCGA Junior coaches, Pratima and Alegra. Off the course, I like to sing in the church choir and be a camp counselor at Monarch camps. In the future, I hope to become a social worker or a teacher. I love working with children.
Josiah Joseph
Index: 10
*RESERVED* My name is Josiah, and this fall I’ll be a junior at Grambling State University, where I compete on the track team. I’m now a double major and remain on track to graduate on time while balancing athletics, independent modeling, my barbering business, and several campus organizations. SCGA Junior has profoundly shaped my life both on and off the course. I first joined the program when I was seven years old, and it gave me not only a love for golf, but also lifelong friendships, mentorship, and opportunities that helped me become the person I am today. My goal is to continue growing my business while pursuing a career where I can make a positive impact on others. Thank you for supporting the SCGA Junior Golf Foundation and for investing in students like me.
Khivi Kaur
Index: +0.8
Hi members, I’m Khivi, a sophomore at CSU Monterey Bay, studying Biology and competing on the women’s golf team. My freshman year was filled with new experiences and exciting accomplishments, including multiple top-10 finishes and earning honorable mention All-CCAA honors. Balancing college golf with my academic schedule has strengthened my time management and study skills, and I take pride in maintaining excellent grades while pursuing my dream of playing professional golf. Off the course, I enjoy giving back to SCGA Junior and hope to inspire younger golfers the same way my coaches inspired me. Looking ahead, I plan to continue playing golf while pursuing a career in dentistry.
Evan Kim
Index: 17.8
Hi, I’m Evan, and in the Fall, I’ll be a freshman at North Hollywood High School. I started playing golf when I was 5 with my mom. We got into it after COVID, and over time, we both ended up loving the game. I grew to love golf because it gave me opportunities to play at amazing new courses. Through golf, I’ve also met a lot of different people and built connections with others who share the same passion for the game. I like how golf is both competitive and social at the same time, and it’s helped me become more confident, disciplined, and comfortable meeting new people. Off the course, I play volleyball and archery. One of my career goals is to become a real estate agent. I enjoy meeting new people and building connections. Thank you for having me, and I can’t wait to play with you.
Nataliya Laciste
Index: +1.2
*RESERVED* Hi, I’m Nataliya, and this fall I’ll be transferring to California State University, Los Angeles, where I’ll continue my education as a communications major and compete on the Women’s Golf Team. I hope to pursue a career in sports broadcasting and am already working with the athletic department to gain hands-on experience.
This past year taught me a lot about perseverance. Adjusting to college life, balancing academics with collegiate golf, and living away from home for the first time was challenging, but it helped me develop stronger time management skills and become more disciplined both on and off the course. The SCGA Junior Golf Foundation has played a huge role in my journey.
Without the Foundation’s support, attending college and continuing my golf career would have been much more difficult. Being an SCGA Foundation Scholar is an honor because I get to represent an organization that has given me incredible opportunities, lifelong friendships, and a love for the game. I enjoy staying involved by volunteering with SCGA Junior whenever I can, including helping organize apparel for spring programs and assisting at the coaches meeting at Don Knabe Golf Center. Thank you for supporting the SCGA Junior Golf Foundation. I’m excited for the opportunity to spend the day with you and can’t wait to play together!
Alejandro Pedroza
Index: 0.8
*RESERVED* Hi, my name is Alejandro, and this fall I’ll be a senior at Gahr High School. I first started playing golf when I was six years old after my dad introduced me to the game, and it quickly became another way for us to spend time together. My current coach is Connor Nolan, and SCGA Junior played a huge role in teaching me the fundamentals when I was just getting started. I love golf because of the competition, the challenge, and the constant opportunity to improve. My favorite course I’ve played is Hillcrest Country Club, and my go-to club is my 8-iron. Off the course, I enjoy playing video games, working out, watching movies, and listening to all kinds of music. I’m still exploring different career paths and looking forward to discovering what interests me most. Thank you for having me. I can’t wait to play with you.
Ariana Perez
Index: 0.8
*RESERVED* Hi, I’m Ariana, and this fall I will begin my junior year at UC Irvine. I started playing golf in elementary school and began training at the TGR Learning Lab and SCGA Junior. I’m the first person in my family to pick up the sport, which has made building that foundation entirely my own. I’m now a double major in Political Science and Chicano Studies and was honored to make the Dean’s List this past year. Outside of the classroom, I’m involved in ROTC, Model United Nations, Delta Gamma Sorority, College Corps, and volunteer at a local food bank and with the OC Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. After graduation, I hope to attend law school and pursue a career in public service. Golf has introduced me to incredible mentors and opportunities, and I’m grateful to the SCGA Junior Golf Foundation for helping me continue my education and achieve my goals.
Adrian Rodriguez
Index: 6.9
Hi members, my name is Adrian, and I’ll be a Junior at La Serna High School in the fall. I started playing golf when my dad introduced me to the game, and I love playing with friends and competing. My older brother, Andrew, is my golf mentor. Off the course, I enjoy playing soccer and chess. In the future, I want to work for a technology company. Thank you so much for having me. I’m very excited to play with you!
Andrew Rodriguez
Index: +3.5
*RESERVED* My name is Andrew, and this fall I’ll be a freshman at California State University, Long Beach, where I’ll compete on the Men’s Golf Team while studying Business Finance. I first started playing golf when I was two years old after my dad introduced me to the game, and I’ve loved the challenge and competition ever since. SCGA Junior has been a huge part of my journey, helping me develop both as a golfer and as a person through incredible coaches, lifelong friendships, and opportunities that ultimately helped me earn a spot on a Division I golf team. In the future, I hope to play professionally, and if not, pursue a career in the business industry.
Adriel Sajor
Index: 19.1
Hi, my name is Adriel, and in the fall I will be in the 10th grade at Gahr High School. I first started playing golf because of my dad; he is my golf mentor and teaches me great lessons. I love golf because I get to play it with friends and family. It’s also really satisfying to hit perfect shots out on the course. My favorite course to play is Skylinks golf course, and my favorite club in the bag is my 7-iron. Other than golf, I like to snowboard, surf, and play basketball. In the future, I hope to someday pursue a career in the medical field and become a sports medicine physician. Thank you for this amazing opportunity.
Atticus Sajor
Index: 1.1
*RESERVED* Hi, I’m Atticus, and this fall I’ll be a sophomore at Cal State Fullerton, where I’m studying Pre-Business with plans to major in Finance. I first started playing golf because my parents wanted me to try a sport at a young age, and after my dad took me to the driving range, I was hooked. My dad has always been my biggest mentor, sacrificing so much to help me compete and supporting me every step of the way. I love golf because it’s unpredictable; every round is different, even on the same course. My favorite course I’ve played is Los Angeles Country Club, and my go-to club is my driver. Off the course, I enjoy DJing under the name DJ Swing, creating content, and playing chess. My goal is to pursue a career in investment banking while continuing to compete at a high level in golf.
Jonah Siu
Index: 2.9
*RESERVED* Hi, I’m Jonah, and this fall I’ll be a junior at Pepperdine University, where I’m majoring in Psychology with the goal of earning a doctorate in Sports Psychology. I hope to help future generations of athletes strengthen their mental health and reach their full potential. One of the highlights of this past year was studying abroad in Heidelberg, Germany, where I gained new perspectives through my psychology courses and experienced a different culture. What I love most about golf is the opportunity to spend quality time with family and friends while building lasting relationships. SCGA Junior has played a huge role in my journey by providing incredible opportunities, mentorship, and a community that continues to support me. Thank you for supporting the SCGA Junior Golf Foundation. Your generosity has made a tremendous impact on my education and future, and I look forward to meeting you and spending the day together!
Diego Soto
Index: 6.8
Hi, I’m Diego, and I’m currently attending the University of California, Irvine, where I’m pursuing a degree in business. I’m interested in a career in either investment banking or medical device sales, and I’m always looking for opportunities to expand my knowledge and gain real-world experience.
This past year, I’ve balanced a full course load while working up to 30 hours a week, which has taught me the importance of time management, discipline, and staying organized. Along with school and work, I’ve stayed involved in a business finance club and volunteered with the “Understand the Grind” Foundation, helping provide opportunities for young athletes in San Diego.
Being an SCGA Junior Golf Foundation Scholar means a great deal to me because it has allowed me to focus on my education while staying connected to the game that has shaped my life. I enjoy giving back through SCGA Junior events and had the opportunity to play with Foundation supporter Ron Gray last year, which was a memorable experience.
Building relationships with donors and sharing the Foundation’s impact are things I truly value. Thank you for supporting the SCGA Junior Golf Foundation. Your generosity has made a meaningful difference in my college journey, and I’m excited for the opportunity to spend the day with you!
Sophia Soto
Index: 4
Hi, I’m Sophia, and I’m a student-athlete at the University of California, Riverside, where I compete on the Women’s Golf Team. I’m majoring in Philosophy/Law and Society, and I plan to attend law school and pursue a career as a sports agent, sports broadcaster, or in sports marketing. Balancing Division I golf with academics has taught me a great deal about time management and perseverance.
Between classes, practices, workouts, tournaments, and studying, I’ve learned how to stay organized while continuing to grow both on and off the course. This past season was especially exciting because I had a breakthrough in my golf game, and I’m looking forward to building on that success over the next few years. The SCGA Junior Golf Foundation has been a huge part of my journey. Beyond the financial support, it has introduced me to incredible mentors, lifelong friends, and a community that truly believes in my goals.
I enjoy staying involved with SCGA Junior whenever I can and have also volunteered in my local community, working with young children through creative arts programs. Thank you for supporting the SCGA Junior Golf Foundation. Your generosity allows students like me to pursue our education while continuing to compete in the game we love. I’m excited to spend the day with you and share more about my journey!
Kalea Tea
Index: 6.7
*RESERVED* Hi, my name is Kalea, and in the fall I’ll be heading into my freshman year at Mark Keppel High School. I first started playing golf because of my sister Precilla, and my dad taught me the basics of golf. I also love playing golf because it allows me to meet new people and make lifelong friends. Off the course, I participate in the honor band playing the trumpet, and I play the piano. I also volunteer at my school activities and fundraisers. In the future, I hope to become an entrepreneur in the golf field.
Precilla Tea
Index: +1.7
*RESERVED* Hi members, my name is Precilla, and in the fall, I’ll be a sophomore at Scripps College. I first started playing golf when I was 5 years old, and my dad introduced me to the game. I love golf because it is a game where improvement is constant, and no round is ever the same. No matter what it is, there is always something to work on and improve, and I love that golf pushes people to strive for progress. My golf mentor is my swing coach, Jon Levitt. He inspires me because of his own golf journey of being a pro, and he always supports me in my swing and mental game. My favorite course that I’ve had the opportunity to play is Congaree Golf Club, and my favorite club in the bag is my putter. Off the course, I like to swim, play the piano, try new foods, and ski. In the future, I hope to someday pursue a career as a lawyer. Thank you for this opportunity, and I can’t wait to play with you!
Austin Vega
Index: 6.1
*RESERVED* Hi members, I’m Austin, and I’m a senior at La Serna High School. I first picked up a golf club at age six after watching my brother Dallas participate in SCGA Junior classes. My dad introduced me to the game, and I’ve loved it ever since. What I enjoy most about golf is the competitive aspect and the friendships I’ve made along the way. One of my biggest mentors has been former SCGA coach Eric Koscielak, whose guidance and relationship with my family have played a huge role in my development. Away from the course, I enjoy playing pickleball with my brother and friends. Looking ahead, I hope to build a career in the golf industry, whether that’s coaching, working for a golf company, or continuing to share the game that has had such a positive impact on my life.
Dallas Vega
Index: 3.4
Hi, I’m Dallas, and this fall I’ll be a sophomore at California State University, Long Beach, where I’m studying Graphic Design. Over the past year, I’ve learned to balance college life with a strong academic record, including earning a 3.8 GPA in my first semester. Golf and SCGA Junior have been a part of my life for over 14 years, providing me with lifelong friendships, mentors, and opportunities that have shaped who I am today. Outside of school, I enjoy creating art and building my portfolio, with the long-term goal of starting my own golf company. I’m proud to be the first in my family to attend college and grateful for the support that allows me to pursue both my academic and creative passions.