KINGSVILLE, Texas — The Texas A&M University-Kingsville golf program is hosting its fifth annual golf tournament, but this tournament is unlike any other because all the proceeds go right back into the program.
"We rely on this tournament to help fund travel and help fund equipment and maybe even help for summer school to help pay for some of these kid's degrees," said Stefanie Maynard, the Head Womens' Golf coach for TAMU-K
There are 10 golfers on the team.
"We're going to be traveling to California and Arizona in the spring," Maynard added, "those trips are pricey. It's not easy getting on a plane right now."
All 10 athletes are on partial scholarships and anywhere from 30-to-70 percent of their academics is covered, so when the community gets involved, they're directly investing in the Javelinas.
"People don't really know and always ask 'Where's Kingsville, Texas?' and we always have to say 'It's 45 minutes south of Corpus Christi' we always have to point out something else. We always try to make our name bigger," said Katelyn Habib, a senior golfer for the Javelinas.
They said the program wouldn't be what it is now without the support from the community.
"Paid for travels bags in the past, they've paid for some summer scholarships, I've paid for some girls to get their degrees and then they've helped us go to Florida a few times. We went to Philidelphia in May, and it helped pay for that as well," said Maynard.
The tournament is located in Corpus Christi at the Lozano Golf Center.
"They're representing not only us but the whole university, and it would be really good for people to come and support and represent the blue and gold," Habib added.
There is a little treat for contestants with the best swing.
"We've got some hole in one prizes, we've got closets to the pin, long drive. The first through third place teams get some Javelina gear," said Maynard.
Registration is currently open, but people can also show up the day of the tournament, which is on Saturday, Nov. 5, and sign up there.
More from 3News on KIIITV.com:
- Early voting for 2022 kicks off, and registered voters have a lot of options
- Inmates are allowed to and still want to vote despite being in jail, sheriff says
- Islanders reloaded and ready to make repeat run at NCAA Tournament
- 'Very exciting night': Corpus Christi paranormal team visits infamous Texas Haunted Hill House
Subscribe to our YouTube channel for your daily news and exclusive extended interviews.
Do you have a news tip? Tell 3!
Put your name and contact information below, or email tell3@kiiitv.com, so we can get in touch with you about your story should we have questions or need more information. We realize some stories are sensitive in nature. Let us know if you'd like to remain anonymous.
If you do not have a photo/video to submit, just click "OK" to skip that prompt.
https://digitalsupport335727.typeform.com/to/CTYK9JC2?typeform-welcome=0&disable-auto-focus=true