National Hispanic Heritage Month is September 15 through October 15. It celebrates the cultures of people who are descendants of Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. PGA REACH Gateway would like to highlight two junior golfers, Adelina Johnson and London Fitzgerald, in honor of this celebration.
“It’s special to me…. because I don’t see many girls who look like me,” said Adelina Johnson when describing what it means to be a Hispanic golfer. Johnson is a 9-year-old and participates in the 9-hole division of the Gateway PGA Junior Tour, a major program of PGA REACH Gateway.
Though young, her bright personality shines through. Johnson began playing golf five years ago after her dad introduced her to the game. She enjoys it because she has met a lot of different friends while playing.
“Work, Fun, and Friendships” is how London Fitzgerald describes the game of golf. Fitzgerald is an 11-year-old who competes in the 18 Hole Division of the Gateway PGA Junior Tour. She is one of the top competitors in her division and has the opportunity to play at some of the biggest events on the junior golf circuit.
“I am proud to be a Hispanic golfer and a female golfer,” said Fitzgerald. She talked about how important it is to be both Hispanic and a woman in an industry where both are minorities. London continued to talk about how she wants to make a difference in the industry, as she hopes to become an LPGA Professional one day.
Both of these junior golfers credited their love for golf to their family, friends, and coaches who have helped them enhance their knowledge of the game. These golfers are continuing to excel in their respective divisions. PGA REACH Gateway seeks to bring a diverse amount of talent into the junior program. Happy Hispanic Heritage Month!
For more information on Hispanic Hispanic Heritage month, click here.
This story was written by PGA WORKS Fellow Cameron Dinkins