The Ben Hogan Foundation is proud to partner with some great organizations to offer both partial and full scholarship opportunities for young men and women wishing to pursue a college education. Firstly, the Ben Hogan Foundation is proud to announce its partnership with the Texas Health Ben Hogan Sports Medicine to offer the Ben Hogan Perseverance Award. In addition, the Ben Hogan Foundation Mentor Scholarship is a full scholarship to Texas Wesleyan University. It is renewable for four years, given the recipients’ academic performance and conduct. In partnership with the Northern Texas Professional Golfers Association (NTPGA), the Ben Hogan Foundation also offers partial scholarships to deserving young adults. Recipients may attend the college of their choice with this scholarship. In addition, the Ben Hogan Foundation is proud to offer the AUSA Military Scholarships to five rewarding children of soldiers. Each recipient receives a $5,000 scholarship. Lastly, the foundation partners with the First Tee of Fort Worth to award young boys and girls who receive “Ace” Level status, the highest honor in the first tee organization. Each “Ace” levelparticipantis recognized with a crystal trophy and a $2,500 scholarship to the school of their choice.
BEN HOGAN PERSEVERANCE AWARD 2021
In 2021, the Ben Hogan Foundation was able to award four incredible students with the Award of Perseverance. Our scholarship winners were Josh Finklea, Cable Glenn, Michael Hall and Catherine Klein.
Josh Finklea At the age of two years old, Josh was diagnosed with Leukemia. He spent a vast majority of his preschool in elementary years fighting sickness that left him in the hospital way more than any kid should ever have too. When he was three, one of the medicines caused brain swelling. He had a difficult recovery as he began learning to walk again. Several month later, another Chemo drug led him to the hospital where he was in a coma for 40 days on life support. He was now learning to walk again for the 4th time. With the condition of his health, he was advised to never play a contact sport. He was also required to wear orthotic foot/ankle braces from age 3-15. In 8th grade, Josh learned about the Coppell High School Sports Medicine team. While he wasn’t able to compete, he quickly became a part of the varsity girls’ volleyball team as a student athlete trainer. No task was too small for him. He was at every early morning practice and every late night away game supporting the team. After many years of being “well”, days before his junior year, Josh was rushed to the emergency room with a liver problem from a cancer treatment years earlier. Determined to recover and be back serving the sports teams at the school, Josh worked hard to get healthy. Despite having many out-patient procedures during the season he never once missed a game that season. He again underwent two more surgeries his senior year. No matter how many times he was knocked down, he was always ready to fight to get back up. He wasn’t getting back up for himself, but to serve and support his team. He is an incredible model of what perseverance means!
Cable Glenn Cable’s life drastically changed the spring season of his freshman year in high school. Gradually he was unable to smell anything or breathe through his nose. This made football practice and agility training very difficult. He began trying a couple medicines, but nothing worked. After many tests, scans, and biopsies in October, he was diagnosed with a brain tumor. It had always been his dream to play varsity football on Friday night. Now with the diagnoses he wasn’t allowed to compete. Cable underwent two surgeries to remove the tumor that had grown to the size of a fist. Going in Cable didn’t think the surgery was a big deal. Post-surgery, he laid in the hospital in extreme pain unable to raise his arms or get out of bed. He was in a dark place mentally and physically. He was home bound for 6 weeks. After returning to school, he struggled both mentally and physically in his classes. He was exhausted by the end of the day and thought of any kind of physical activity was impossible. He went through lots of emotions of being sad and mad as he watched friends have fun and compete. The pandemic hit and he was forced to train on his own at home. This became a huge blessing because he could no longer compare himself to others. At the start of summer workouts, he was able to return for certain activities. He continued to push through the hard days and get stronger! He is now stronger and faster than he has ever been before. He learned that bad things happen, but you have a choice about how you respond to it. Your attitude has a direct impact on your success.
Michael Hall “I didn’t understand how fragile life truly is,” said Michael. On May 10, 2020 his life took a drastic shift when his car was hit by a worker van traveling very fast. The car was completely totaled and burning. He found a way out the backseat and onto the road. He was taking to the hospital immediately. When he woke up at the hospital, he had needles and wires all over him. The doctor told him he would need surgery to repair a broken pelvis, jaw and his right shoulder blade. The doctor said he would probably never be able to play basketball again. Michael persevered and remained positive throughout the entire recovery process. For the next several months, he worked with his athletic trainer daily rehabbing. First on the shoulder, then his good leg. Finally, after 4 months unable to walk on his own, he began rehab on his hip. He was determined to get back. Quitting was never an option. With senior year already started, he worked diligently to get back on the court. His dream became a reality when his coach called him into his first game back!
Catherine Klein Full of eagerness and excitement, she began her freshman year at DBU to play soccer. A couple weeks into preseason, she tore her meniscus. She began prehab and schedule surgery that would bench her for the season. Despite disbelief, she took her injury head-on full of determination. While unable to compete, she selflessly took on the role of encourager and helper. She searched for ways to support her team and never complained about her circumstances. With a new appreciation for the opportunity to play again, she laced up her cleats. With great disappointment, she found herself battling with excruciating pain with each step. Her new surgeon told her she was in a need of a 3-in-1 experimental surgery or a total knee replacement at the age of twenty. She continued to remain positive despite the hard news. She underwent six procedures in three surgeries by age twenty-one. In the process, she grew in her faith realizing that soccer is something she does and not who she is. She learned how to conquer the unexpected with grace, advance through doubt with patience, and never take for granted what she has.
BEN HOGAN PERSEVERANCE AWARD 2020
In 2020, the Ben Hogan Foundation was able to award four incredible students with the Award of Perseverance. Our scholarship winners were Carson Winters, Gabbie Guerrero, Adam Salinas and Kasey Sorbers.
Carson Winters – On April 25, 2019 it was a normal Spring football practice and Carson was going up for the catch in the end zone. A defensive back was there to break up the pass and Carson took a big hit to his abdomen. Not sure what was wrong, the trainers attended to Carson and after many exams Carson ended up spending 10 days in the ICU fighting for his life. After open surgery what they found was a rupture of his small bowel and a peritoneum abscess. With this was the threat of sepsis. After the surgery the physician told his parents that he had only seen a belly like that after a severe gunshot wound. Carson lost over 50 pounds but was determined to return to football. On August 29, 2019 Carson caught his first pass over the middle that resulted in a touchdown his first game back. Carson ended his senior year with 10 touchdowns, 539 yards and was voted 1st Team All District Wide Receiver for District 6-6A. Carson will be attending The University of Oklahoma
Gabbie Guerrero – A 15-year-old typical teenage girl, straight A student who loves her friends and basketball. Gabbie was on a casual ride in a UTV which entered a wet area and began to slide. She lost control and flipped in a parking lot. As a young girl you never want to hear you are losing half of your foot and basketball is over. After five surgeries and three weeks in the hospital, Gabbie had to amputate all five toes on her left foot. She had to learn how to walk again. She had to adjust to crutches and would soon need a prosthetic. Even after this accident and all the pain she would endure, Gabbie continued to make it to school and to basketball practice. She would not play but would be there with her friends and continue to cheer and encourage them to be better. Six months later Gabbie would suit up to play in her first game after the accident. The coaches were amazed to see her perform and to see her commitment to return to the game. Gabbie says,” I will never be content with being ok or using my accident as an excuse. Just knowing I could change someone’s life and help them get through their deepest, darkest times makes all the pain and suffering worth it.” Gabbie wants to attend Baylor University.
Adam Salinas – It was his Sophomore year in school, just a normal young boy who enjoyed football and baseball and was good! Adam one night was having difficulties breathing and experiencing sharp pains in his lower back. This pain would result in a baseball size tumor and a diagnoses of stage 4 neuroblastoma cancer. Adam would face twenty-four rounds of chemotherapy, two back to back bone marrow transplants, several blood transfusions and twelve rounds of antibody therapy. He was devastated and knocking on deaths door. Adam fought this battle for two years and refused to give up, he just wanted to play baseball again. The game kept him going and his fight to get back on the field was what he needed to get through this. Adam made it back to walk on the field and play his senior year. He was proud for what he had accomplished. With this came a change in Adam’s perspective for life. Before he was all about baseball and his academics had suffered. Now that he has been released to return to school, his appreciation for the little things in life are noticed. His grades are now high and he appreciates his education and will continue his school efforts to help others become better and realize their dreams.
Kasey Sorbers-Kasey is a All Star soccer player. She has played her whole life, fifteen years before becoming a NCAA athlete and playing on a four-year college scholarship. In Kasey’s first year she would lead her team to a Title Championship and qualify for the sweet 16 NCAA Girls soccer championship. She worked incredibly hard and even at night to get prepared for being the best. Kasey would suffer her first ACL injury in the spring of 2017. In the 2018 off season Kasey would re-injure the same knee. Reconstruction was now in the works. Kasey would undergo one surgery to just prepare her for her fourth ACL surgery. Four surgeries in two years and she never quit. When Kasey could not represent the team on the field, she would do so off the field. She committed herself to community service and helping others to represent her team and school. Kasey returned to the field in 2019 and would play her senior year. She finished her season playing in 18 games with no injuries. Kasey has been so inspired by the medical industry that she will be using her scholarship to pursue nursing school at UTA and focus on serving others in our community.
BEN HOGAN PERSEVERANCE AWARD 2019
BEN HOGAN PERSEVERANCE AWARD 2018
Texas Health Ben Hogan Sports Medicine and the Ben Hogan Foundation presented the 3rd Annual Ben Hogan Award of Perseverance and $40,000 in scholarships to two high school student and two collegiate athlete at the Ben Hogan Foundation breakfast on May 22nd at Shady Oaks Country Club.
In honor of Ben Hogan’s devotion to the game of golf and his determination to control his own destiny, Texas Health Ben Hogan Sports Medicine and the Ben Hogan Foundation have come together to honor athletes with that same determination. The Ben Hogan Award of Perseverance will annually recognize students, in high school and college, who have overcome adversity or injury to return and excel in their respective sport(s).
“Perhaps there is no more iconic figure in the history of sports that epitomized an individual ‘persevering’ in life,” said Robert Stennett, CEO of the Ben Hogan Foundation. “We believe Mr. Hogan would be very proud of these two young adults who overcame significant challenges and persevered.”
Thanks to the generous support of community donors including Balfour Beatty, Dee J. Kelly Foundation, Frost Bank and Hillwood, the $10,000 Ben Hogan Award of Perseverance will be given to each athlete and then divided equally between the athlete and the athlete’s school/university, each receiving $5,000. The athletes must use the award to fund his/her education.
Ben Hogan Perseverance Award winners are Darius Yarbrough, Morgan Valentino, Bria Northrop and Imani Crownover:
Darius is from Life School in Oak Cliff, Darius was active on the football team in 2016 and was run over by a truck one evening while walking home from a friendly basketball game with his family. Darius received many broken bones and head injuries from this hit and run accident. He has an amazing attitude and will be back playing football for his senior year.
Morgan was involved in an auto accident where see was thrown from the back of a truck. She suffered very traumatic head injury with a basal skull fracture and spent 9 days in ICU. Morgan was unconscious for several days and when she came too heard the words “It will be a long time before you walk and your softball days are over”. She had different plans and returned to softball later that season and has received a softball scholarship and plays for Southwest Assembly of God University. Morgan is from Red Oak, Texas.
Bria attends Texas Women’s University where she competes in gymnastics. She suffered a career ending knee injury during competition and was subject to many surgeries and rehab. Bria competed at a National level and has qualified as a first team All-American. After being told gymnastics was over she went to work and never stopped. One year later she returned to her team to compete. She will pursue her degree in nursing and wants to work with children diagnosed with cancer.
Imani attends South Hills High School in Fort Worth where she plays basketball. Imani had a knee injury that would test her to the limit. Her mother passed away when she was 4 and her grandmother, who she lived with had a stroke when she was 8. Imani had to not only care for herself but also the family. Imani kept fighting, even walking to school on crutches to complete her studies. She has returned to her team as a leader and shown incredible determination and heart.
BEN HOGAN PERSEVERANCE AWARD 2017
The 2016-2017 high school Ben Hogan Award of Perseverance winners are Jakob “Jake” Liles and Kody Wages. Jakob “Jake” Liles was extremely excited to begin his freshman year at Flower Mound High School. It was during preseason football practice that his injury occurred. Jake’s original diagnosis was a hyper-extended knee with a possible four-week recovery. However, 12 hours later, it was discovered that Jakob’s injury was much more serious. Jake was suffering from a blocked artery and a fasciotomie on the lower right leg due to compartment syndrome. After a 16 day hospital stay and two surgeries, Jake was finally on his slow road to recovery. During his process, Jakob displayed unparalleled positivity, tenacity and perseverance. Throughout his recovery, he decided not to take the little things for granted, like the ability to walk. After countless months, Jake has returned to playing football as well as basketball and both the coaches and the team are happy to have him back.
Kody Wages, a senior at Millsap High School, has dealt with adversity both on and off the athletic field. He used football as an outlet, a way to deal with life’s trials, and it was something that brought him much joy. During the second game of his junior year football career, he tore his ACL and required reconstructive surgery on his knee. He was devastated but determined to accept the rehabilitative challenges and be ready to play football his senior year. He accomplished his goal. Not only was he dedicated to football and his team, he is also dedicated to his family. Kody takes care of his mother who is dealing with Stage 4 cancer; assists his father, who is a quadriplegic, get to work and then after helping his parents, sees that his sister gets to school, all before heading to school himself. Life for Kody has not been easy but as he so eloquently stated “God has blessed me with a heart that won’t let me quit and that pushes me to keep going through anything.” He is a true example of persevering through life’s hardship.
The 2016-2017 collegiate Ben Hogan Award of Perseverance winners are Bethany Allen and Brandi Lazarus. Bethany Allen has always been a leader both on and off the field and was named first team all-conference shortstop during her freshman year. In the spring of 2016, during a normal Friday practice, Bethany collided with an outfielder on a fly ball. After observation for a concussion, the decision was made to take Bethany to the emergency room as a precautionary measure. An MRI indicated that she had a brain tumor. She was diagnosed with Anaplastic Oligodendroglioma, a form of brain cancer, and operated on her the same week. Throughout her recover and eventual second surgery, Bethany continued to show nothing but perseverance and strength. Bethany was offered a position to play on the Henderson State University’s softball team and has been cleared to play. Many others would have given up if faced with such trials but Bethany hopes to use her life experiences to become a softball coach and teach children what she has learned along the way.
Brandi Lazarus has a love for gymnastics. Unfortunately, the sport places incredible stress upon the body and Brandi is no stranger to injury. After fighting her way back from several high school injuries, she walked on to the gymnastics team at Texas Woman’s University and completed a superb freshman year. She suffered yet another injury to her knee during a floor exercise her sophomore year. Once again, she was determined to return to her beloved sport. This time, things were different. She wasn’t just fighting to return for herself, she had a team counting on her. After more than a year of setbacks, more surgeries, rehabilitation, and frustration, Brandi’s determination and drive enabled her to return to her beloved sport and compete in her first competition in February.
The 2015-2016 high school Ben Hogan Award of Perseverance winner is Sarah Maynard, a senior at Peaster High School. Maynard’s ability to play sports changed drastically when an automobile accident left her paralyzed from the waist down. After a four month hospital stay, countless hours of physical therapy, the encouragement of family, friends and coaches, and most importantly, her own self-determination, Maynard began her journey back into sports. While things look a little different now that she is in a wheelchair, she persevered. Since the accident, Maynard joined a wheelchair basketball team, advanced to the UIL state tournament for sitting shot-put where she earned the bronze medal and also made the All American Paralympic team.
Though she has accomplished and overcome so much, Maynard still has big plans for the future. “Sugar and spice, obstacles and strife; that’s what life is made of,” said Maynard. “Without them, we would be strangers to ourselves and shadows of the people we could have become.”
The 2015-2016 collegiate Ben Hogan Award of Perseverance winner is Jamakia Hughes from the University of Texas Arlington. Hughes waited two long years to finally get back on the basketball court after enduring an ACL injury and NCAA transfer rules. Unfortunately, after only two practices, Hughes endured another traumatic injury, essentially tearing everything in her knee. Sixteen challenging months after the initial injury and four disheartening surgeries later, Hughes finally became completely cleared for full activity with no restrictions. Hughes is thrilled to be back on the court and looking forward to next season.
AUSA Military Scholars
Five $5,000 scholarships for children of our soldiers
Hogan Scholars represent the top five candidates
Partnership with Central Texas Chapter of AUSA
Ceremony was on June 3, 2019 at Fort Hood to award the Hogan Scholars
In 2021, the Ben Hogan Foundation awarded five recipients with the AUSA military scholarship. The following students included: Logan Stokoe, Jermahl Coleman, Raphael Dela Cruz, Zander Sullivan and Caroline Sylvia.
MENTOR
Take a major growing university (Texas Wesleyan University), a charitable foundation (the Ben Hogan Foundation), a successful business person (the Mentor), and a young person from The First Tee of Fort Worth, and you have one of the most unique partnerships in all the world. That is exactly what we did with the Ben Hogan Foundation Mentor Scholarship. For a young person participating in The First Tee of Fort Worth, it represents an opportunity for a full, renewable scholarship that includes all books, fees and tuition for four years of college. For a mentor, it represents an opportunity to give back to the community and be personally involved with the formal education of a young adult. For Texas Wesleyan University, it represents an opportunity to bring some of the best and brightest young adults into their university while partnering with one of the premier foundations in America. For the Ben Hogan Foundation, it furthers our mission of providing scholarships to deserving young adults.
This four-year model agreement with Texas Wesleyan University will give the Ben Hogan Foundation an opportunity to send a minimum of five (5) First Tee kids to college over the next eight years, and hopefully many more. It is also very unique in that 100 percent of the mentor’s donation goes directly to funding their scholarship. Congratulations to our first two recipients: Ms. Jacey Patton and Mr. Anthony Harper, III. Jacey was recognized on May 15, 2017 by the Hogan Foundation for being a 2017 NAIA Scholar Athlete.
The Ben Hogan Foundation winner for the 2015 Ben Hogan Foundation Mentor Scholarship is Mr. Conner Parish.
Conner was born and raised in Fort Worth, Texas. He became a part of The First Tee of Fort Worth to enhance his golfing ability, but ended getting much more from The First Tee than he expected. He is the immediate past president of the Junior Advisory Committee and has been very involved in various community service activities. Conner is pursuing a Bachelors in Business Management and Finance at Texas Wesleyan University. Conner’s mentor for this scholarship will be Mr. Robert Stennett.
The Ben Hogan Foundation winner of the 2016 Ben Hogan Foundation Mentor Scholarship is Mr. Josh Hinojosa.
Josh was born in Fort Worth, Texas. He joined The First Tee of Fort Worth when he was 5 years old, and was a member for 13 years. He was homeschooled and lettered all four years on his High School baseball team. Josh taught himself guitar and played in the youth group band at his church. He was very active in his youth group, and went on several mission trips, including 3 terms at Camp Barnabas, and an LST trip to Beijing, China. Josh will be attending Texas Wesleyan with a major in General Business. Josh’s mentor for this scholarship will be Mr. Jason Snider.
The Ben Hogan Foundation is pleased to announce the winner of the 2017 Ben Hogan Foundation Mentor Scholarship – Ms. Calista Lothliam.
Calista was born and raised in Fort Worth, Texas. She joined The First Tee of Fort Worth at the age of eight and has been an active member for over 10 years. She has represented the Fort Worth Chapter at local and national events, and is the immediate past Vice President of the Junior Advisory Committee. Calista has spent most of her summers volunteering with First Tee camps and helping out with weekend classes during the school year. Calista will be following her passion of helping people and pursue a Bachelors in Biology for Pre-Med at Texas Wesleyan University.
At the Ben Hogan Breakfast Club on September 6, 2017, the Ben Hogan Foundation announced that we have fulfilled our pledge to Texas Wesleyan University to have five students on a full four year Mentor Scholarship. We look forward to the future and hope to help many more motivated young individuals. At the breakfast, our CEO, Robert Stennett was presented with The Flame Award from TWU for his exceptional vision and leadership.
Check out our latest update from our Mentor Scholarship recipients:
The Ben Hogan Foundation and Texas Wesleyan celebrate the 2019 Mentor Scholar- Cal Coker. He plays on the Texas Wesleyan golf team and plans on majoring in business. See the video below for more information on Cal.
The Ben Hogan Foundation winner of the 2020 Ben Hogan Foundation Mentor Scholarship is Ms. Bailey O’Donnell. The Ben Hogan Foundation and Texas Wesleyan University have teamed up with The First Tee of Fort Worth and mentors to create an incredible opportunity for a young person in The First Tee. This scholarship is awarded each year to a deserving individual. The full, renewable scholarship includes four years of college tuition, all books and additional fees. Take a look here at Bailey’s accomplishments and enjoy a small essay from her about how one of Mr. Hogan’s many positive attributes has benefitted her in school and life.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Co-Director for a multi-state leadership conference (2 years)
President of Junior Advisory Committee 2019-2020
Dolley-Madison Award Recipient
Stars and Stripes Award Recipient #606
Varsity Golf Team Captain
Presidential Service Award-Gold Level
Citation Award Recipient 2019
The Ben Hogan Foundation winner for the 2021 Ben Hogan Foundation Mentor Scholarship is Ms. Malisone Chanthapanya .
Malisone Chanthapanya is the 2021 Ben Hogan Foundation Mentor Scholarship winner and will be attending Texas Wesleyan University this fall studying Computer Science. Malisone is a graduate of Saginaw High School where she finished 6th of 443 students and achieved a 4.0 GPA. According to her teachers, Malisone is a natural leader and is mature beyond her years. She is a very driven student who is determined to do her best in everything she does. She stands for what she believes and sets a real example for her peers. Malisone is a lifelong member of The First Tee of Fort Worth joining the program at age 5 and attaining Ace level certification. She is the current Fort Worth Junior City Golf Champion. Her favorite hobby is reading and her favorite meal is sushi.
The First Tee of Fort Worth “Ace” Level Award
The Ben Hogan Foundation is proud to recognize young boys and girls from The First Tee of Fort Worth who achieve “Ace” level status in the program. “Ace” level status, the highest level one can reach in the program, is a rare accomplishment indeed with far less than 1 % of participants achieving it.
Beginning in January 2018, the Ben Hogan Foundation now provides “Ace” level participants two gifts in recognition of this accomplishment:
A beautiful crystal 3D Ravielli of Mr. Hogan
A $2,500 scholarship to the school of their choice
The 2019 First Tee of Fort Worth Ace Level Scholars are Shaelyn Niblett and Malisone Chanthapanya.
It is our hope that these gifts from the Ben Hogan Foundation will provide further incentive for participants to work towards and achieve the highest level participation in The First Tee of Fort Worth.
Although Mr. Hogan did not have the opportunity to pursue his education due to economic misfortunes, he always realized the importance of a formal education and the positive impact that it has on a young person’s life. It is in this spirit that the Ben Hogan Foundation is pleased to provide educational opportunities for young boys and girls wishing to pursue higher education.
The 2020 First Tee of Fort Worth Ace Level Scholars are Gavin Hogan, Matthew Adams and Zach Willard.
In 2021, the First Tee of Fort Worth had an impressive number of students that received “Ace” level achievement. The following winners included: Alex Henderson, Truth Hippman, Trinity King, Kelly Low and Bailey O’Donnell. We are so proud of these individuals and the commitment to excellence.
Northern Texas Professional Golfers Association (NTPGA)
The Ben Hogan Foundation is proud to partner with the NTPGA Junior Golf Foundation to provide educational opportunities for our youth. Although Mr. Hogan did not have the opportunity to pursue his education due to economic misfortunes, he always realized the importance of a formal education and the positive impact that it has on a young person’s life. It is in this spirit that the Ben Hogan Foundation is pleased to provide educational opportunities for young adults wishing to obtain a college education.
Brian Ting
Ben Hogan Foundation/Mike Ball Scholarship
Carrollton, Texas
University of Texas at Dallas
Brian Ting was a Hebron High School graduate and a NTPGA junior member. Brian will attend the University of Texas at Dallas, where he will major in Computer Science. He is most excited about building connections and experiences to further his learning and growth towards his goal in researching Artificial Intelligence.
Mitchell Greenberg
Ben Hogan Foundation/Tom Stites Scholarship
Southlake, Texas
University of Texas at Austin
Mitchel Greenberg was a Carroll Senior High graduate and a NTPGA junior member. Mitchel will attend the University of Texas at Austin, where he plans to major in Biology. He is looking forward to getting to be a student at the school he grew up cheering for. He is so excited to get to experience a football game in the student section.
Ella Fisher
Ben Hogan Foundation/Lynn Vaughan Scholarship
Aledo, Texas
University of Texas at Austin
Ella Fisher was an Aledo High School graduate and a NTPGA junior member. She will attend the University of Texas to major in Textiles and Apparel. She is eager to study a subject she is passionate about! While at the University of Texas, she will have many unique opportunities to work with industry-leading companies and study in international programs focused on sustainability practices.
Sydney McConnell
Ben Hogan Foundation/Mike Wright Scholarship
Baytown, Texas
University of Mary Hardin Baylor
Sydney McConnell is a Robert E. Lee High School graduate and was an NTPGA Junior Tour member from 2012 to 2020. During high school, Sydney was a part of Golf, Mu Alpha Theta Math Honor Society, Rho Kappa Social Studies Honor Society, Science National Honor Society, Student Council, Chick Fil-A Leader Academy, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. She was captain of the Varsity golf team, an organizer and leader of community-wide school supply drives, and a leader of a marketing group for the 1 in 3 Foundation. Sydney received several honors throughout high school including A Honor Roll, Top 10% of her graduating class, Golf Freshman of the Year, and the Ralph Spence Award. She says her favorite memory from her time on the NTPGA Junior Tour was playing in the Ben Hogan Junior Cup in 2018. She said it was easily the most fun tournament she ever played and loved when the NTPGA was down but brightened back to an eventual win in the alternate shot round. Sydney plans to attend the University of Mary Hardin Baylor in the fall where she plans to play collegiate golf and study business management.
Marissa Bhavsar
Ben Hogan Foundation/Mike McMahan Scholarship
Carrollton, TX
University of Michigan
Marissa is a Hebron High School graduate and was an NTPGA Junior Tour member from 2016 to 2019. In high school, Marissa was a part of the varsity golf team, DECA, the National Honor Society, Science National Honor Society, Student Council, and the National Charity League. She also served as captain of the golf team and recording secretary for the National Charity League. Marissa received awards such as A honor-roll student, NCL Modelette Award, Academic All-State team member, and Second Team All-District Golf team member. Her favorite memory from the NTPGA Junior Tour was a tournament at Gleneagles Country Club where she placed second after overcoming adversity and believing in her skills. Marissa plans to attend the University of Michigan in the fall and will study computer science.
Knox Wagoner
Ben Hogan Foundation/Pat and Kori Green Scholarship
Dallas, TX
University of Texas at Austin
Knox Wagoner is a Highland Park High School graduate and was an NTPGA Junior Tour member from 2014 to 2020. During high school, he was captain of the golf team, a Texas Boys State Delegate, Young Men’s Service League vice president, and a Young Life junior leader. Knox received several honors including National Merit Commended Scholar, AP Scholar, and Cornerstone Scholar-Athlete. Knox said his favorite memory from the NTPGA Junior Tour was playing in an NTPGA All-American tournament at Harbour Lakes. Knox said he rode to the tournament with a friend, and the two of them had a blast. Neither of them won, but they had a great time. He said the NTPGA Junior Tour taught him that golf is not just about winning, it’s about the fun you have and the people you meet. Knox plans to attend the University of Texas at Austin to study business in the fall.
Courtney Battiese
Ben Hogan Foundation
Plano, Texas
New York University
Courtney Battiese, a 6 year NTPGA Junior Tour veteran, graduated from Plano West Senior High School as a National Hispanic Scholar and an AP Scholar with honors, and is planning to attend New York University in the fall to study computer science. Throughout high school, Courtney was involved in a multitude of clubs and organizations including National Honor Society, Computer Club, Marching and Concert Band, Dance, Environmental Club and Multicultural Club. During her time with the band, she also held a leading position as the Trumpet Section Squad leader. Courtney was also involved in several organizations outside of school, including LifePoint Church, American Red Cross, Habitat for Humanity and Salvation Army. She says her favorite memory of the NTPGA Junior Tour took place at Firewheel Golf Park, “I was able to break my personal record of 80 and accomplish my goal of shooting in the 70s. I remember the huge sigh of relief I let out after making that last putt and the surge of happiness I felt knowing that I was capable of shooting a 76. My mother and personal coach were beaming with pride, and I was smiling from ear to ear. This experience showed me that all my hard work was paying off, and that the key to golf is perseverance. Though playing a great round and improving my game meant a lot to me, it was making my biggest supporters proud that truly brought me the greatest happiness. I know that my family and friends will always continue to support me in whatever I do, and this day is just one of many that I can truly reflect on with joy.”
Ally Fowler
Ben Hogan Foundation
Mckinney, Texas
University of Texas at Austin
Alexandra (Ally) Fowler is a top 10% graduate of McKinney Boyd High School who received her Green Cord from the Student Council, was a Co-Captain of the golf team, an AP Scholar with Distinction, and a Distinguished Student Award Winner. She was involved in several groups on campus including the National Honor Society and National Art Honor Society, Youth and Government group, Key Club, Congressional Youth Advisory Council and Model United Nations. Ally says her favorite memory from the NTPGA Junior Tour is when she played an event at Four Seasons Resort and won with rounds of 74-75–149. “It was my favorite tournament because it was a true test of my endurance. We played 27 holes on a day that had to be at least 95 degrees, and I was honestly just trying to finish. I three-putted the last hole and thought I lost, but ended up getting first. It was crazy at the time, but it gave me a lot of confidence and I will always remember it.” Ally will begin at the University of Texas at Austin this fall to study international relations and global studies.
Hudson Hicks
Ben Hogan Foundation
Frisco, Texas
University of Texas at Dallas
Hudson Hicks was an NTPGA Junior Tour member from 2014 to 2018 and graduated from Wakeland High School in the top 10% of his class. He was an active member of the National Honor Society, National Science Honor Society and Mu Alpha Theta, and was a member / captain of the varsity golf team. Hudson says his favorite memory from the NTPGA Junior Tour is when he finally broke par at a tournament at The Bridges at Firewheel in October of 2017. “I shot a tournament low 2-under-par, 70, which was exciting for me as it had been a goal of mine since I began playing.” Hudson will begin studying biomedical engineering this fall at the University of Texas at Dallas.
Brendan O’Connell
Robert Stennett Scholarship
Fort Worth, Texas
Cornell University
Brendan O’Connell is a 2018 graduate of Fort Worth Country Day, where he was a member of the varsity baseball team, golf team and the robotics club. Throughout high school he was also self-employed as a photographer and videographer, going on to win first place in the Timed Exposure Category and second place in the Landscapes Category at the 2017 Association of Texas Photography Instructors Fall Contest. He also participated in the GeoX Full-Scholarship Summer Program at Texas A&M University’s College of Geosciences, and the Abbey Road Spanish Immersion program, spending a one-month homestay in Cádiz, Spain. Brendan also served as the President of The First Tee of Fort Worth Junior Advisory Committee during his senior year. He has been a member of the NTPGA Junior Tour since 2011. Brendan will be taking a gap year to travel to Ireland before attending Cornell University in Ithaca, New York in the fall of 2019.
Austin Escamilla
Ben Hogan/Jeff and Suzanne Mooney Scholarship
Midland, Texas
Rice University
Austin Escamilla is a 2018 graduate of Trinity School of Midland, where he was a member of the golf team and served as captain his sophomore to senior year, and achieved a state championship for his division as an individual player in 2017 and 2018. He was also highly involved in the choir, school musical productions and student council, serving as student body president his senior year all while achieving a 4.04 GPA. Austin also volunteered with the Salvation Army and planned a fundraising day at his high school which set the Midland-Odessa single-day bucket fundraising record for the 2017-18 school year. He has been an NTPGA Junior Tour member since 2008. In the fall, he will attend Rice University where he will play on the golf team while pursuing his degree.
Cullen Embry
Ben Hogan/Mark and Katie Kalpakis Scholarship
Dallas, Texas
Baylor University
Cullen Embry is a 2018 graduate of J.J. Pearce High School, where he was a member of the varsity golf team and the National Honor Society, and served as the president of Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA) from 2016 to 2017. He was also involved with the J.J Pearce Wranglers, serving as a pacesetter escort, and performed in a variety of lead and supporting roles with the J.J. Pearce Theatre all while achieving a 3.91 GPA. He also participated in the North Dallas Chapter of the Young Men’s Service League, performing over 100 hours of community service and serving as first vice president for the senior class. Cullen has also been involved with the Prestonwood Baptist Church youth group and youth choir serving on a variety of mission trips and the student ministry leadership team. Cullen has been a member of the NTPGA Junior Tour since 2012. This fall, he will attend Baylor University as a member of the honors college.
William Warner
Ben Hogan/Denny and Carol Alexander Scholarship
Granbury, Texas
University of Arkansas
William is a 2017 graduate of Granbury High School where he graduated in the top 20 of his class and was a four-year letterman of the varsity golf team. While in high school, he was also a member of the National Honor Society and Key Club and participated in multiple technology and engineering competitions. William is attending the University of Arkansas where he will major in mechanical engineering.
Spencer Bindel
Ben Hogan/Alan and Wendy Barron Scholarship
Mansfield, Texas
University of Notre Dame
Spencer Bindel is a 2017 graduate of Mansfield High School where he graduated as valedictorian out of a class of 550 students. While in high school, he also served as the president of two organizations – the National Honor Society and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes – and held leadership roles on a handful of other organizations. He also completed the requirements to become an Eagle Scout, the highest achievement attainable in the Boy Scouts of America, in 2012. Spencer will attend the University of Notre Dame this fall where he will pursue a degree in political science.
Sarah McClain
Ben Hogan/Jeff and Kelly Dillard Scholarship
Colleyville, Texas
Dallas Baptist University
Sarah McClain in a 2017 graduate of Colleyville Heritage High School where she was a member of three national honor societies – the National Honor Society, the National Spanish Honor Society and the National Technical Honor Society. She was also a member of the student council, an officer of the Business Professionals of America club and a four-year letterman on the varsity golf team. In the fall, Sarah will attend Dallas Baptist University where she will major in business management.
Mark Miller
Ben Hogan/Pat and Kori Green Scholarship
Colleyville, Texas
University of Texas at Austin
Mark Miller is a 2016 graduate of Colleyville Heritage High School where he was student body president, co-captain of the varsity golf team and a Texas Boys State delegate while maintaining a 5.1 GPA. He has been an active member of the Boy Scouts since 7th grade and earned his Eagle Scout rank in 2015. Mark plans to attend the University of Texas at Austin and pursue a degree in civil engineering while also participating in the Naval ROTC program there.
Lucas Elliott
Ben Hogan/David and Elizabeth Durham Scholarship
Granbury, Texas
Texas Southern University
Lucas Elliott is a 2016 graduate of Granbury High School where he was a member of the varsity golf team, National Honor Society, and treasurer of the Future Farmers of America while maintaining a 4.2 GPA. He will be attending Texas Southern University where he will be playing golf and pursuing a degree in general business.
Zachary Begland
Ben Hogan/Gary and Judy Strong Scholarship
Coppell, Texas
University of Southern California
Zachary Begland is a 2016 graduate of Coppell High School where he was president of the National Honor Society, a member of the varsity golf team and a National AP Scholar. He maintained a 5.5 GPA and was ranked tenth out of 780 students in his graduating class. He will be attending the University of Southern California – Los Angeles in pursuit of a degree in chemical engineering and a minor in finance.
Dudley Sims
Ben Hogan/John & Cami Goff Scholarship
Dallas, Texas
University of Auburn
Dudley is a 2015 graduate of Highland Park High School where he was a student ambassador and member of the varsity golf team while maintaining a 4.12 GPA. Dudley earned the Presidential Service Award for 100+ community service hours in a year during his sophomore, junior and senior years of high school. Dudley will be attending the University of Auburn on the Presidential Scholarship and plans to major in Mechanical Engineering and minor in Business.
Eric Seutter
Ben Hogan/Pat & Kori Green Scholarship
Carrollton, Texas
Bethany College
Eric is a 2015 graduate of Hebron High School where he was the captain of the varsity golf team, member of the National Honor Society, and a Texas Boys State delegate. He will be attending Bethany College in Lindsberg, KS, where he will be playing golf and majoring in Business / Marketing.
Lindsey Williams
Ben Hogan/Sharon Rea Scholarship
Lubbock, Texas
Texas A&M University
Lindsey just completed her freshman year at Lubbock Christian University where she is a member of the women’s golf team and is pursuing a degree in Finance. She currently boasts a 4.0 GPA. Lindsey also helped raise over $3,500 for Make-A-Wish and her goal is to help advance women in the world of sports. She plans to pursue a Master’s in Sport Management at Texas Tech University after graduating from Lubbock Christian University.
J’Lynn Vacek
Ben Hogan/Hollis and Donna Sullivan Scholarship
Frisco, Texas
Texas A&M University
J’Lynn Vacek accredits golf for many of her successes, one being the first recipient in Centennial High School history to accept the Academic All State Award for Golf. After accepting the award in 2012, J’Lynn went on to become a state qualifier for the UIL Banking and Finance Competition and captain of her varsity golf team. Aside from excelling in golf, J’Lynn was an AP Scholar and graduated with a 3.8 GPA from Centennial. She has been accepted into the business school at Texas A&M and hopes to work in office securities and investments after completing college.
Jake Willimon
Ben Hogan/George Seagraves Scholarship
Spearman, Texas
Tarleton State University
Jake Willimon spent much of his youth hunting, fishing, and working his way to become an Eagle Scout leader. He held a leadership role in FFA for three years at Spearman High School. Jake has been playing golf since he was nine years old and qualified for regionals while in high school. Jake graduated second in his class with a 4.0 and 30 college credit hours. He began his college career at Tarleton State University studying animal science. After completing his undergraduate degree at Tarleton, he hopes to continue with veterinary school at Texas A&M.
Colby Hatchett
Ben Hogan Foundation/Sean Anderson Award
Fort Worth, Texas
Abilene Christian University
As a captain of the Fort Worth Christian School golf team for three years, Colby Hatchett earned All-Region honors in 2011. Colby also played on the basketball team for four years, captaining the squad as a junior and senior. He is a member of the National Honor Society and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Colby has served as a counselor for young boys at a church camp and has participated in multiple youth group mission trips. He maintains a 3.952 GPA and is ranked 13th in his class. With plans to become a doctor, Colby will attend Abilene Christian University to be part of the institution’s health sciences program.
Megan Rooney
Ben Hogan/James Peebles & Kay Day Scholarship Winner
Flower Mound, Texas
Oklahoma State University
Megan Rooney maintains a 3.882 GPA at Flower Mound High School while also participating as captain on the girl’s golf team. She is a member of the National Honor Society, French National Honor Society, and the Student Council. Megan was recognized for four years of service and academic excellence at Flower Mound High School’s “Evening with the Star.” Megan will attend Oklahoma State University.
Wayde Voss
Ben Hogan/Lindsay and Amy Stites Scholarship Winner
Frisco, Texas
Florida State University
Throughout his high school career, Wayde Voss served on the City of Frisco Mayor’s Youth Council, where he consulted on the needs of Frisco’s teens and served as the committee chair for the “Day with the Mayor” event. Wayde is a two-year letterman on the Centennial High School boys golf team and served as captain as a senior. He will attend Florida State University as part of the Professional Golf Management program.
Matthew Armstrong
Ben Hogan/Fred and Michele Reynolds Scholarship Winner
Winnsboro, Texas
The University of Texas at Tyler
Matthew Armstrong is a graduate of Winnsboro High School and will attend The University of Texas at Tyler to study civil engineering in the school’s honors program. While in high school, Matthew participated in numerous activities, including FCCLA, UIL One Act Play and the high school golf team. He was also a member of the NTPGA Junior Golf Foundation for two years.
Sara Coe
Ben Hogan/Lindsay and Amy Stites Scholarship Winner
Amarillo, Texas
West Texas A&M University
Sara Coe attends West Texas A&M University (WTAMU) and is studying elementary education while also participating on the WTAMU golf team, FCA and SAAC. Sara was on the President’s honor roll in the fall of 2008 through the fall of 2009.
Kelsey Knowles
Ben Hogan/David Chapman Scholarship Winner
Dallas, Texas
The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor
Kelsey Knowles is a graduate of the Cambridge School of Dallas and will attend The University of Mary Hardin Baylor for their four-year nursing program. While in high school, Kelsey was on the varsity golf team, cross country team and basketball team. She also participated in her school’s drama production and school choir.
Taylor Newlin
Ben Hogan/Marty Leonard Scholarship Winner
Frisco, Texas
The University of Texas at San Antonio
Taylor Newlin is a graduate of Dr. Justin Wakeland High School and will attend The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) to study chemical engineering, bio-chemical engineering or dental school. At UTSA, she will also participate on their women’s golf team. In high school, Taylor was in the National Honor Society, FCA and participated on the golf team that went to state four years in a row. Taylor also won the 4A Girl’s High School Golf State Championship.
Nickolas Hemman
Ben Hogan/Clifton Morris Recipient
Fort Worth, Texas
Texas A&M University
Nickolas Hemman is a graduate of Fossil Ridge High School, where he lettered on the varsity golf team and was a member of the marching and concert bands. Nickolas plans to major in mechanical engineering at Texas A&M University. He has also made community service an important part of his life by participating in the Natural Helpers program at his high school and in numerous community church projects, including a mission trip to New Orleans, Louisiana.
Johnny Antle
Ben Hogan/Pat Hare Scholarship Recipient
Graham, Texas
Texas Christian University
Johnny Antle is a graduate of Graham High School, where he lettered on the varsity golf and cross country teams. Johnny has been playing golf since he was 10, and he will continue to play as a member of the TCU golf team. In his spare time, Johnny has made giving back to the community a priority. He has been the leading fundraiser for the Birdies for Kids program two years in a row, and has been involved in numerous volunteer programs in his hometown.
The Ben Hogan Foundation winner for the 2015 Ben Hogan Foundation Mentor Scholarship is Mr. Conner Parish.
The Ben Hogan Foundation winner of the 2016 Ben Hogan Foundation Mentor Scholarship is Mr. Josh Hinojosa.
The Ben Hogan Foundation is pleased to announce the winner of the 2017 Ben Hogan Foundation Mentor Scholarship – Ms. Calista Lothliam.
The Ben Hogan Foundation winner for the 2021 Ben Hogan Foundation Mentor Scholarship is Ms. Malisone Chanthapanya .
