
JPGA CLUB/LEAGUES AFFILIATES

WOMEN'S JACKSON PARK
GOLF CLUB
The Women’s Jackson Park Golf Club, established in 1921 as a private club for elite women playing at Jackson Park Golf Course, originally catered to wealthy women seeking to golf and play Bridge daily. In the 1970s, nine Black women from the Chicago Golf Club joined the membership. While members played daily, their focus was on weekly Wednesday competitions rather than tournaments—a tradition still upheld. The club remains private and invitation-only, with a diverse membership of both competing and noncompeting players, golfing seasonally from May to October.
chicago women's
golf club
The Chicago Women’s Golf Club, founded in 1937 by three women, aims to promote golf among women and increase diversity in the sport. In 1954, the club launched the Bob-O-Links junior golf program, offering professional instruction to boys and girls aged 8-17, furthering its mission to engage women and children in golf. As the second oldest African American golf club in the U.S. and an affiliate of UGA and USGA, it has taught thousands the game. Today, the club supports charitable organizations and continues to drive positive change in the Chicago community.
The Fairway Network, established in 1993 by prominent businesswomen, was created to empower women by enhancing their golf skills and leveraging the sport for networking and business opportunities. Rejecting traditional gender roles on the course, the founders used the network to build valuable connections and advance their careers. The organization has raised over $100,000 for initiatives benefiting Chicago-area women and supports leagues at Jackson Park, Robert Black, and Eaglewood. Members also play monthly at prestigious courses like The Glen Club and Cog Hill, sharing a passion for golf, community service, and camaraderie.
the fairway network
ladies on the green
Ladies on the Green, founded on March 28, 2012, by Erika “Birdie” Shavers, is a golf league for professional women who share a passion for the game. Meeting weekly from May to August at South Shore Golf Course, the league combines competition and social engagement through fun games and camaraderie. Over its five seasons, it has fostered strong friendships while maintaining a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere.
ebony ladies golf
league
The Ebony Ladies Golf League, founded on March 15, 1974, by 14 women from Chicago, began with the goal of enjoying golf, fostering competition, and having fun. Over the years, its mission expanded to promoting golf skills among women, encouraging a competitive spirit, and providing USGA handicap indexes. Since 1975, the league has hosted the Annual Jack and Jill Outing, drawing golfers nationwide for camaraderie, exciting prizes, and the chance to connect with friends old and new.
st. mark golf club
St. Mark Golf Club, a ministry of St. Mark United Methodist Church, was founded in 1985 by Rev. Dr. Harry B. Gibson and professional golf instructor Gifford Scruggs. Its mission is to foster relationships with God, one another, and the broader community through faith in Jesus Christ, while advancing the Kingdom of God on Earth. Dedicated to spiritual growth, the club integrates spiritually nurturing activities with the game of golf.
the shadows
The Shadows is a dedicated group of hardworking men who come together to enjoy the game of golf after their busy workdays. They play either a full 18-hole round at the historic Jackson Park Golf Course or a shorter, yet equally enjoyable, 9-hole round at the scenic South Shore Golf Course. This league provides a perfect balance of relaxation, camaraderie, and friendly competition, creating an ideal way to unwind and connect with fellow golf enthusiasts.
the weekend warriors golf network
The Weekend Warriors Golf Network (WWGN) is committed to welcoming new golfers and fostering a supportive environment for learning and enjoying the game. Focused on building friendships and connections with golf organizations, WWGN aims to create a vibrant community of informed golfers. By enhancing knowledge about the game, WWGN enriches the golfing experience and serves as a resource hub, offering tools, programs, and opportunities for players of all skill levels.
JPGA COLLABORATORS

jpga partners
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African American Golf EXPO & Forum
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Cousins Empowered Optimists (CEO) Superheroes
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Greater Auburn-Gresham Development Corporation
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Obama Presidential Center
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Stephens Consulting
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Ted Rhodes Foundation
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Troon/Indigo Sports Management
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USGA
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Walter & Nettie George Speedy Foundation
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Wilson Golf