On Saturday, 58 players gathered under sunny skies at the Oaks Golf Course for the first-ever Scholarship Golf Tournament, raising over $5,000 toward the Fun and Fitness Scholarship Recreation Program.
The program - sponsored by the Washington Street Community Center, the Newton County Recreation Program and the 100 Black Men of Newton County organization - allows deserving but disadvantaged kids to play sports by paying for their recreational sports fees and uniforms as well as pairing them with mentors.
The program just finished funding six boys and six girls for the baseball and softball season, and hopes to support 50 more kids within the next year.
Bea Jackson, director of the Washington Street Community Center, said there was a good diverse group of participants in the golf tournament, including fathers and daughters, members of the chamber of commerce, the Covington Police Department and people from all over the county.
Though players at all skill levels could participate in the tournament, the winning team - led by Stevie Johnson - shot a 54, taking home trophies and bragging rights.
"The purpose (of the tournament) was to raise funds and recruit mentors," said tournament organizer Keith Davis. "We did get some good feedback from some gentlemen, but we need more."
The program is looking for both male and female mentors for the upcoming football and cheerleading season.
For additional information, call the Washington Street Community Center at 770-786-4002.
