Behind the Scenes at the Joanne Winter Arizona Silver Belle Championship

Completely volunteer-run event is a huge success

Front left to right: Heather Risk, LPGA and Diane Tone. Top left to right: Chris Kelly, Linda George, Ellen O’Hara, Sharon Petrytus, Terry Johnson, Sharol Shepherd and Kathy Gook, LPGA

by Mary Ann Souter

By all standards, the Joanne Winter Arizona Silver Belle Championship is one of the premier golf events for young women amateurs in the nation. 2009 boasted 215 entrants, which was the highest number since the tournament began in 1971. These top young players attracted 35 college recruiters, a testament to their talent and to Silver Belle’s mission of offering young golfers recognition for college scholarships.

A well-run tournament is essential for the players and for the reputation of the event. Enter the Silver Belle volunteers!

Heartfelt thanks to the incredibly committed volunteers who organized the event and for the work they do to make it a success. Approximately 50 volunteers donated their time for three days to cover every aspect of running a flawless tournament. Over half of the volunteers were members of the Arizona Women’s Golf Association. Many local LPGA Teaching and Club Professionals volunteered to provide technical support. These women share a bond with Joanne Winter, an LPGA Professional herself, and are committed to upholding her vision for the Silver Belle. Other supporters were from the AGA, Mesa Community College and ASU. Together, these volunteers accepted the responsibility of hosting this major event and carried it out without missing a step.

Ellen O’Hara, President of the Joanne Winter Arizona Silver Belle Board of Directors, oversees the 13 member Board and supervised the event.

Kathy Gook, LPGA Professional, was the 2009 Tournament Director and managed the entire event. Kathy was also the Chair of the Selection Committee and the Scholarship Committee, new this year due to the generosity of The Thunderbirds. Their Foundation assisted five golfers who otherwise would not have been able to participate.

Fran Marsden was the Head Rules Official and recruited a team to provide USGA-sanctioned technical advice when needed. Heather Risk, LPGA Professional, was the Volunteer Manager. Her outreach to many groups and individuals led to a host of volunteers ready and eager to help.

Fundraising is also accomplished by volunteers. Their efforts produced a most generous gift by Presenting Sponsor, the A.B. Farrington Foundation. Geri Cavanagh, President of their Board, was at the tournament showing their strong support for girl’s golf.

When Joanne Winter started the Silver Belle Championship 39 years ago, she envisioned a venue for girls to compete, hone their skills and attract national exposure. Her dream is continuously being affirmed by these dedicated volunteers who work tirelessly to carry on the rich tradition of this leading championship for young women amateurs.

Want to volunteer for the 2010 Silver Belle? Visit www.azsilverbelle.com and sign up now!

Mary Ann Souter is a freelance writer who is currently working with the Arizona Women’s Golf Association. Contact her at 480.332.6335 or maryann@synergisticgolf.com.