Black History Month is a time to reflect on the achievements and contributions of the Black community, celebrate progress, honor struggles, and recognize the power of resilience. Youth on Course has long been a champion for diversity and inclusion in the sport of golf. In celebration of Black History Month, let’s take a moment to reflect on and hear directly from members and alumni.
Jackson McLear: A Success Story from the DRIVE Club
Jackson McLear’s journey with Youth on Course began when his coach encouraged him to apply to the Youth on Course DRIVE Club, a decision that would change the course of his life. Jackson shares, “My coach at the time encouraged me to apply to the Youth on Course DRIVE Club, and everything changed. Youth on Course invited me to Pebble Beach, and I was so excited but showed up with old used clubs, a tattered golf bag, and no golf gear. But that event was a game-changer. I met other diverse junior golfers, connected with my golf mentor, and received a brand-new golf bag. I learned about Youth on Course and how I could play at many courses for just $5!”
Jackson since then has played at courses in Florida, Virginia, and Maryland. One of his most memorable moments came when he was invited to the TGR Invitational in 2022 and had the chance to meet Tiger Woods. He also participated in the first-ever member 100 Hole Hike, where he got his first hole-in-one.
Abigale Morris: A Careers on Course Intern Making Waves in Golf
Abigale Morris, a 2021 Careers on Course intern, alumna and Biola University Women’s Golf athlete, holds Black History Month close to her heart as a time to reflect on the sacrifices and triumphs of her ancestors. She shares, “Black History Month, to me, is a time of celebration and reflection—a chance to honor the incredible achievements of my ancestors. It is a motivation to keep going and a powerful reminder to remain grateful for the progress made.”
Youth on Course has been instrumental in Abigale’s journey. She recalls, “Youth on Course gave me the opportunity to practice more and play at a variety of different courses. As an intern, I got involved early, and it was an amazing jumpstart to my journey in golf. The organization’s flexibility allowed me to balance my golf life with my education, and the support from the Youth on Course team has been invaluable.”
Abigail is currently a junior studying Cinema and Media Arts while playing Division 2 golf at Biola University. She has already made an impressive impact on campus and in the professional world. Abigail has earned Dean's List honors every semester and has gained valuable internship experience, serving as a 2023 USGA Pathways Intern and a 2024 PING Marketing Intern. Beyond academics and internships, she’s also shown strong leadership by leading the “Chocolate Chat” Affinity Group, which creates a safe space for Black women on campus.
Gerald Stafford: A Legacy Built on Black History and Golf
For Gerald, Black History Month holds a great significance and reflects on the struggles his grandfather faced. “My grandfather was a part of the Negro Leagues, and learning about that history connects me to my roots,” Gerald shares. “Black History Month is an opportunity to reflect on the past while recognizing the progress we’ve made.”
Youth on Course played a pivotal role in Gerald’s development as a young Black golfer. “Youth on Course made it possible for me to access courses and play the game. I wouldn’t have had those opportunities without them,” he says. Being part of the Alumni Network also gave him the chance to connect with other golfers in the community.
Gerald is currently working toward achieving his Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) certification. His passion for aviation continues to soar as he takes the next step in his career. He has his Bachelor of Science in Aviation Flight. Additionally, he has secured four important certifications: Private Pilot, Instrument Rating, Commercial Certification, and Multi-Engine Rating.
As we celebrate Black History Month, we honor the stories of Jackson, Abigale, Gerald, and countless others who continue to defy expectations and make their mark in the world of golf.