Southern California PGA Junior Tour Celebrates 75th Anniversary

ONTARIO, CA (June 28th, 2023) The Southern California PGA Junior Tour, a premier developmental platform for youth golfers in Southern California, proudly announces its momentous 75th anniversary this season. Since its inception, the SCPGA Junior Tour has been a driving force in shaping the lives of aspiring golfers, fostering their skills, and instilling core values that extend beyond the golf course.

The SCPGA Junior Tour, founded in 1948, has consistently stood as a pillar of excellence, nurturing the talent and passion of junior golfers across Southern California. Throughout the years, the SCPGA Junior Tour has been instrumental in shaping the careers of countless junior golfers, including some of the game’s most accomplished professionals. The program has served as a breeding ground for talent, cultivating the next generation of golf champions such as prominent household names such as Patrick Cantlay, Rickie Fowler, Lilia Vu, Collin Morikawa, Lizette Salas, Rose Zhang, Tiger Woods, Danielle Kang, Max Homa, Xander Schauffele, and many more. Several alumni now have named events as a way for them to give back to the program (“Patrick Cantlay Series,” “Lizette Salas Invitational,” “Max Homa Invitational”). 

Reflecting on the incredible impact of the SCPGA Junior Tour, SCPGA Executive Director Nikki Gatch, PGA, who is also a former participant of the program, shared her sentiments. “As a product of the SCPGA Junior Tour myself, I can attest to the immeasurable value this program holds for young golfers. It provides an environment where they can grow, compete, and develop both as athletes and individuals,” said Gatch. “The SCPGA Junior Tour has played an integral role in shaping my journey as a PGA Professional and the journeys of countless juniors over the years. It is truly a testament to the lasting legacy of the SCPGA Junior Tour.”

Over the past 75 years, the SCPGA Junior Tour has continually evolved, introducing innovative initiatives to enhance the overall experience for its participants. It offers a wide range of competitive events, including single-day tournaments, multi-day championships, and clinics, providing young golfers with a platform to showcase their skills and gain invaluable tournament experience. The program also emphasizes the importance of sportsmanship, integrity, and character development, nurturing well-rounded individuals who embody the spirit of the game. Founded in 1948 by Ralph Miller and Bill Bryant as the Southern California Junior Golf Association, the Southern California PGA assumed responsibility and oversight of the program in 1989. The junior tour started as a summer-only program for many years but now provides three competitive tours to accommodate any skill level and offers over 400 tournaments year-round.

“We are incredibly proud to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Southern California PGA Junior Tour,” said SCPGA Junior Golf Director Kevin Smith. “This milestone is a testament to the unwavering commitment of our organization, dedicated staff members, and passionate junior golfers who have made this tour a resounding success over the years. We look forward to continuing our mission of fostering the next generation of golf champions and contributing to the growth and development of the game here in Southern California.”

As the SCPGA Junior Tour embarks on its 75th year, it is poised to continue its legacy of excellence, inspiring young golfers to reach their fullest potential. The program remains steadfast in its dedication to providing a platform that nurtures talent, fosters camaraderie, and instills a lifelong passion for golf.

For more information about the SCPGA Junior Tour and its upcoming events, please visit scpgajrtour.com.