“Remember that the happiest people are not those getting more, but those giving more.” – H. Jackson Brown Jr.
If we had the ability to clone an ideal volunteer, Giovanni Sandoval’s DNA would be requested for study. His willingness to lend a hand separates himself from the ordinary and earns the admiration of the entire SCGA Junior staff.
Gio is currently a junior at St. Paul High School in Santa Fe Springs, and has been a member of SCGA Junior since 2013.
“It’s been a ton of fun,” said Gio. “It’s been great to meet all the coaches. Without the program, I wouldn’t have developed the abilities to hopefully play golf in college and further my education in the meantime.”
Gio is expanding his college search outside of his comfort zone. He’s been in contact with golf coaches at Willamette University in Oregon and Concordia University in Wisconsin.
“I hope to play at the next level,” said Gio. “So it’s been exciting to be pursued like I have.” Within the SCGA Junior Instruction program, Gio is known to be a rock star. Consistently volunteering on the weekends and even after school during the week, Gio is a regular.
“Golf is a hard game,” said Gio. “Some others may think that too. But I want to give people confidence that they can become better with time and effort. That’s why I’m here.”
His commitment to the program that gave him so much is evident amongst the SCGA Junior administrators. “Gio consistently shows up to weekend classes to volunteer his free time,” says Kaycee Wilke, Director, Instruction. “He is dedicated to being a great role model and mentor to younger kids in the community.”
When he’s not volunteering, he does make time for himself on the course.
Gio recently participated in the SCGA Junior Play Day at Bel-Air CC. It left a lasting impression on the junior.
“I loved it. My partner was a very wise man who gave me a ton of life advice as well as a new perspective on the golf course,” said Gio. “He reminded me to take a step back and enjoy the game, whether it’s a good or bad day, just have fun.”
Thanks to Gio’s positive attitude and steady presence, we’re having more fun than ever at our events!