JPGA Invitational Program

Sunday, September 14, 2025, 7:30 AM
Jackson Park Golf Association

ALL ABOUT SCHOLARSHIP INVITATIONAL PROGRAM

The Jackson Park Golf Association Invitational is a celebration of golf, competition, and community. Designed to bring together golfers of all ages and skill levels, this 18-hole stroke play tournament welcomes leagues, clubs, and individual players to showcase their talent and compete for the coveted crystal trophy and prizes. Sponsorship opportunities are available, offering businesses a chance to promote themselves while supporting a meaningful cause.

What Makes the Invitational Unique?

The JPGA Invitational isn’t just a tournament—it’s a platform that:

Honors the rich legacy of the Jackson Park Golf Course, a historic gem in the Chicago golf community.
Promotes inclusivity and diversity, welcoming participants from all backgrounds.
Encourages competition in a supportive and celebratory environment.

Impact Beyond the Green

Proceeds from the JPGA Invitational directly support:

Scholarships for High School Students: Graduating students who caddied or played on their high school golf teams receive financial aid to continue their education.
Support for Collegiate Golfers: Scholarships are provided to students, notably at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), to help them compete in tournaments beyond school-sanctioned events.
Advocate Professional Golf Association (APGA) Tour Sponsorship: Financial assistance is extended to one golfer competing in the TPC Deere Run Tournament in Silvis, Illinois, helping cover travel and other related expenses.

Why Join the Invitational?

Whether you’re competing for the title or cheering on the players, the Invitational offers:

A chance to experience the camaraderie and excitement of competitive golf.
Opportunities to network with fellow golfers and business leaders.
The satisfaction of supporting education and diversity in golf through scholarships and sponsorships.

Get Involved

Join us in celebrating the transformative power of golf. Stay tuned for registration details, sponsorship opportunities, and event updates.

BECOME A SPONSOR TODAY

Join us in making a difference in the lives of aspiring golfers. Together, we can drive the future of the sport and create opportunities that transform dreams into reality.

LEARN MORE ABOUT SPONSORSHIP

DONORS AND SPONSORS

SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

JPGA 2024 SCHOLARSHIP INVITATIONAL

The 7th Annual Scholarship Invitational hosted by the Jackson Park Golf Association was nothing short of spectacular! With a record-breaking 104 golfers, 26 teams, and 11 caddies joining the event, this year’s tournament was filled with energy, camaraderie, and purpose. Guests enjoyed delicious breakfast and lunch service, all while basking in the blessings of beautiful weather.

The success of this event was made possible through the generosity and support of our incredible sponsors, partners, and volunteers, as well as the dedication of the JPGA Board and the staff of Jackson Park Golf Course. Special thanks to Will Rogers Media Partners, LLC, for connecting us with a wide array of outstanding sponsors.

Tournament Highlights

Men’s Champions: Shadow League – Philip Raoul, Rick Simpson, Kevin Washington, Chris Galloway
Women’s Champions: Ebony Ladies Golf League – Kathy Davis, Elma Bingham, Pat Eddings, Sharon Smith
Individual Winners: Big O & the Temptations – Orlando Reed, Dennis Minefree, Antoine Lane, Jashed Fakhrid-Deen
Low Gross Men: Elijah Royal (72, 3-way tie scorecard playoff)
Low Gross Women: Robin Shoffner

Sponsors:

Returning Sponsors

Phat Katz Catering (Breakfast)
African American Golfer's Digest
Joyce V. Brown Consulting Group
Lil's Somethin Kool Bar & Grill
JAM98 - Bonnie DeShong
Timeless Beauty Facial Aesthetics
Women's Progressive Health Care
Comfort Family Dental
Chicago Dental Dream Team
Errol Trent White Golf Instructor

7th Annual JPGA scholarship Invitational Recap

New Sponsors

Erika Birdie Shavers Golf Instructor
First Tee - Greater Chicago

Additional Sponsors

Simply Good Cookin, Essie's Dressings and Marinades, and Baker Sisters (Lunch and desserts)
Ricky’s Mobile Bartender
Penson & Green Security (Cart Sponsor)
Katemade Designs (Hole signs)
Boy Scouts of America
Peer Plus Education & Training Advocates
BWe Next: The Black Women’s Expo
The South Side Drive
2nd City CPR Safety Training
New Spiritual Light
ERI Empowerment Resources Int’l
Youth Connection Charter School
READER

Although no one claimed the $10,000 Hole-In-One prize (sponsored by the Chicago District Golf Association), the spirit of the day was an undeniable win for all involved.

Looking Ahead

With God’s guidance, this tournament will continue to grow, helping us achieve our mission of providing scholarships and creating opportunities for underrepresented individuals in the golf world. Thank you to everyone who participated and supported this incredible event! HOPE TO See you next year!

JPGA / IJGA YOUTH DEVELOPMENT TOURNAMENT 2024

JPGA 2023 SCHOLARSHIP INVITATIONAL

Despite the rain, the 2023 JPGA Scholarship Invitational brought together over 80 guests for a day of inspiration and fun! Attendees learned about JPGA’s rich history and its mission to grow youth golf, enjoyed raffle prizes, and indulged in Phat Katz Catering’s signature shrimp and grits.

Special guests included:

Reggie Smith: Former NFL player (Broncos, Buccaneers, USFL Bandits)
Michael Ingram: Former pro basketball MVP and U of Iowa standout
Rufus Williams: WVON Talk Show Host

The event showcased JPGA’s impact and community spirit, proving rain couldn’t dampen the day!

Invitational table with banners, awards, and prizes

JPGA / IJGA YOUTH DEVELOPMENT TOURNAMENT 2023

The Jackson Park Golf Association, in collaboration with the Illinois Junior Golf Association, made history by hosting its first-ever tournaments at Jackson Park Golf Course (ages 14-18) and South Shore Golf Course (ages 10-13), marking a milestone in IJGA’s 57-year history.

With perfect weather setting the stage, young golfers from across Illinois showcased their skills, making the event an unforgettable experience. Forecaddies from the Maryville Golf Academy/JPGA training program provided invaluable support, ensuring the tournament ran smoothly.

Volunteers, including Gloria Small, Flora Davis, Kathy Davis, and Mark Lowry, alongside the dedicated Jackson Park and South Shore staff, were instrumental in the event's success. Players praised the course conditions, highlighting the well-maintained greens. Alderman Desmon Yancy (5th Ward) attended, gaining insights into the restoration efforts and the broader community revitalization goals.

This event not only celebrated youth golf but also strengthened community ties, setting a strong foundation for future tournaments.

Inaugural JPGA/IJGA Tournament at Jackson Park and South Shore Golf Courses

Event Contributors

Starters: IJGA alums Ahmad Raoul and Reese Wilson expertly managed starting duties.
Catering: Phat Katz Catering delighted with delicious sandwiches and goodie bags.
Trophies: Bronze trophies were provided by CMS Trophies & Plaques, Inc.
Volunteers: Heartfelt thanks to all JPGA Board members and additional helpers for registration and on-course support.

Winners
Jackson Park Golf Course

Boys 14-15: Mason Fernandez
Girls 14-15: Kennedy White
Boys 16-18: Keshav Gupta
Girls 16-18: Mayan Covarrubias

South Shore Golf Course

Boys 10-11: Carlos Escobar
Boys 12-13: Rian Patadia
Girls 12-13: Annabelle Kutcher

Special Recognition: Congratulations to Zell Wilson (Girls 16-18, 2nd place) for playing her final IJGA tournament! Zell is headed to the University of Detroit Mercy—wishing her continued success!

JPGA 2022 SCHOLARSHIP INVITATIONAL

The 5th Annual JPGA Golf Invitational on 9/18/22 at Jackson Park Golf Course was a resounding success, with perfect weather as a light drizzle gave way to sunny skies. Seventy-six golfers competed for coveted crystal trophies, while Phat Katz Catering impressed with their famous shrimp and grits breakfast. The event showcased the professionalism of Indigo Sports staff and highlighted partnerships like Cousins Empowered Optimist Superheroes, which help introduce more kids to golf. JPGA also celebrated awarding scholarships to four graduates and continued supporting Mulbe Dillard IV on his professional golf journey.

2022 Trophy Winners:

Men’s Team: The Bosses (Carlos Hemphill, Reggie Carter, Chick Hoes, John Gay)
Women’s Team: Fairway Network (Robin Shoffner, Susan Leitao, Polly Flinn, Shanda Coleman)

Leaderboard Highlights:

Low Gross (M): Mark White (75)
Low Gross (W): Susan Leitao (79)
Longest Drive (M): Corey Rowe
Longest Drive (W): Raquel Akridge
Closest to the Pin (M): Andrew Lanum
Closest to the Pin (W): Polly Flinn

Raffle Prizes: Golf gear, tickets, memberships, and more delighted participants.

JPGA is grateful for everyone who played, sponsored, and supported. Together, we’re growing the game of golf! Keep following, liking, and sharing as we continue to Make Golf Your Thing!

JPGA 2021 SCHOLARSHIP INVITATIONAL

The late summer weather was perfect in Chicago, with clear skies and a cool lake breeze setting the stage for 78 golfers at the 4th Annual Jackson Park Golf Association Invitational. Participants represented 20 organizations, including returning leagues like the Women’s Jackson Park Golf Association, Ebony Ladies Golf League, and Divots, alongside newcomers such as Project Brotherhood, Obama Foundation, and Hackers Unlimited, Ltd.

Special thanks to Project Brotherhood for donating the coveted JPGA crystal trophies and sponsoring a foursome, and to Phat Katz Catering for providing personalized lunch bags with delicious sandwich options. Guests also enjoyed scones and muffins from Give Me Some Sugah. Former Chicago Bull Cliff Levingston was honored as an "Honorary JPGA Board Member," while Mark Lowry and CPD’s Alonzo Williams highlighted JPGA’s historical and ongoing impact on the course and community.

Raffle prizes and hole-in-one challenges added excitement, with generous support from Roger Steele’s Trap Golf. While no one won the BMW or trips, the event celebrated camaraderie and the continued mission to make Jackson Park Golf Course accessible and thriving. Thank you to all participants, partners, and volunteers for making the day a success!

4th Annual JPGA Invitational Recap (9/19/21)

2021 JPGA Invitational Winners: “Chicago’s Best”

Men’s Champion: Shadows
Women’s Champion: Ladies on the Green

Contest Winners:

Men’s Closest to the Pin: Marquis Miller (Hole #12)
Men’s Longest Drive: Joel Brown (Hole #14)
Women’s Closest to the Pin: Gabrielle Lott-Rogers (Hole #8)
Women’s Longest Drive: Sidney Dillard (Hole #15)

Non-League/Club Winner:
Team Dillard, led by Mulbe Dillard IV’s parents, celebrated their victory. The team included Mulbe Dillard III, Sidney Dillard, Marquis Miller, and Mark White.

Low Gross Winners:

Men’s: Roger Steele (72)
Women’s: Gabrielle Lott-Rogers (82) *
(*Scorecard playoff winner on Hole #14, tied with Lynn Grant.)

Congratulations to all WINNERS AND thank you for making the 2021 Invitational a success!

JPGA 2020 SCHOLARSHIP INVITATIONAL

On Saturday, September 19, 2020, the Jackson Park Golf Course and Jackson Park Golf Association hosted the highly anticipated 3rd Annual JPGA Golf Invitational, bringing together 15 of Chicago’s finest leagues and clubs to compete for the title of Chicago’s Best League/Club 2020.

The day began with cool lakefront breezes and clear skies, warming to ideal golfing weather as participants gathered early to warm up, practice, and exchange greetings. Excitement filled the air as the 9:00 AM shotgun start drew near.

Participants received thoughtfully curated gifts, including JPGA washable masks, golf keychains with inspirational messages, Wilson gloves, Luster products for men, and hand sanitizers provided by the Chicago District Golf Association. Boxed lunches, catered by Andrea Dillon of Bon Manger Catering, LLC, delighted attendees with nutritious and delicious fare.

The event featured a raffle table brimming with enticing prizes, including golf clubs, accessories from Wilson, a gift basket from The First Tee of Greater Chicago, jewelry, handbags, and golf lesson certificates. Each par 3 hole offered thrilling Hole-In-One challenges with extraordinary prizes such as Srixon iron sets, cash rewards, gift cards, trips to Hawaii and Las Vegas, and even an X3 BMW.

JPGA 3rd Annual Golf Invitational RECAP 9/19/2020

Contest Winners:

Longest Drive Men: Dennis Reed (CDGA)
Longest Drive Women: Robin Shoffner (FN)
Closest to the Pin Men: Brian Hogan (CPGA)
Closest to the Pin Women: Gabrielle Lott-Rogers (WJPGC)

Event Champions:

Men’s Club: 27 Dollar Group
Women’s Club: Fairway Network (Three-peat champions!)
Low Gross Men: Brian Hogan (Chicago Parks Golf Alliance) – 73
Low Gross Women: Robin Shoffner (Fairway Network) – 87

Special thanks to Foreign Car Hospital for sponsoring the stunning crystal trophies awarded to the champions.

The 3rd Annual JPGA Golf Invitational was a day of camaraderie, competition, and celebration, highlighting the spirit and talent of Chicago’s golfing community. Congratulations to all participants and winners for making the event a spectacular success!

CHICAGO'S BEST 2020 MEN'S GOLF GROUP

(27 DOLLAR GROUP - Anthony Williams)

CHICAGO'S BEST 2020 WOMEN'S GOLF GROUP
(FAIRWAY NETWORK - Diane Meades)

THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SCHOLARSHIP EFFORTS

FOR JUNIOR GOLF

JPGA 2019 SCHOLARSHIP INVITATIONAL

Despite clear skies, Chicago’s iconic winds made their presence felt, with brisk 49°F temperatures testing the resolve of participants at the 2019 Jackson Park Golf Association (JPGA) Invitational. Nevertheless, golfers braved the chilly weather to compete and crown this year’s champions.

Highlights from the Day:

Men’s Champion: Anthony Williams of St. Mark Golf Club earned the coveted title with an impressive solo effort. JPGA Board Member Pat presented him with the championship trophy, celebrating his exceptional achievement.
Women’s Champion: The Fairway Network continued their reign as repeat champions. Diane accepted the trophy on their behalf, with low gross medalist Robin Shoffner also receiving a stunning trophy for her individual accomplishments and well-earned bragging rights.

2nd Annual JPGA Invitational – Rain Date Recap

Acknowledgments:
The Jackson Park Golf Association extends heartfelt gratitude to the 19 sponsors who made the 2019 Invitational a resounding success. Your generous donations and contributions created unforgettable experiences for all attendees, both at the Meet, Greet, and Eat event and during the Invitational itself.

Congratulations to all participants and champions for their resilience and excellence, making this year’s Invitational another cherished milestone for the JPGA community!

JPGA 2018 SCHOLARSHIP INVITATIONAL

JPGA Invitational: A Celebration of Golf, Community, and Legacy

"A great event! You must do this every year!" - Marcus Murray (The Shadows)

The inaugural Jackson Park Golf Association Invitational brought together over 100 golfers at the historic Jackson Park Golf Course, representing 14 men’s and women’s leagues/clubs from across Chicago. With clear skies, perfect weather, and a spirit of camaraderie, the event was a remarkable success.

Leagues/Clubs Represented:

Men’s: Chicago Park District, Coalition of African American Leaders, Divots, Jackson Park Men, St. Mark Golf Club, South Shore Men’s League, South Shore Regulars, The Shadows, and Two-Seaters.

Women’s: Chicago Women’s Golf Club, Ebony Ladies Golf League, Ladies on the Green, The Fairway Network, and Women’s Jackson Park Golf Club (WJPGC).

Special Guests and Historical Highlights:
The event honored golf pioneers with the presence of Andre and Terri Stephens, Sr., the great-grandson of Walter and Nettie George Speedy, and Peggy Rhodes-White and Tiffany White, the daughter and granddaughter of Ted Rhodes. Henry Taylor’s historical display highlighted the contributions of African American golfers, including Dr. George Grant, the inventor of the golf tee.

Generous Sponsorships:

Chicago Park District sponsored greens fees.
Chicago Parks Golf Alliance provided delicious food by Andrea Dillon of Bon Manger Catering.
Robert Curry of Divots Golf Club sponsored 20 golf carts.
Rev. Dr. Leon Finney sponsored the beautiful crystal trophies.

JPGA INAUGURAL Golf Invitational RECAP 9/29/2018

Contests and Winners:

Closest to the Pin:
- Hole #6: Paul Beene (South Shore Men), Diane Meades (The Fairway Network)
- Hole #13: Nelson Garrett (South Shore), Dianne Mister (Ebony Ladies Golf League)

Longest Drive:
- Hole #14: Nicole Willis (Ladies on the Green)
- Hole #15: Anthony J. Williams (St. Mark Golf Club)

Best Dynamic Duo:
- Men: Phil Smith (South Shore Men) and Jeff Wilson (62)
- Women: Nichole O’Conner (The Fairway Network) and Linda Thomas (WJPGC) (76)

Junior Golfers Shine:
Junior participants Donovan, Mathis, and Abdel showcased their skills in the Junior Mulligan Contest. Donovan collected 14 tickets and Mathis 10, while Abdel supported golfers with scoring assistance on Hole 6.

League Champions:

Men: South Shore League
Women: The Fairway Network

Raffle Highlights:
Raffle prizes included golf bags, apparel, gift certificates, and a 50/50 drawing that awarded $240 to Nicole Willis of The Fairway Network.

Congratulations to all participants, sponsors, and winners for making the JPGA Invitational an unforgettable celebration of golf, community, and legacy.