Baton Rouge, LA – (Nov. 20, 2023) The Gumbo Cup presented by ACME Oyster House, a homegrown tradition for both First Tee Louisiana chapters, unfolded with great enthusiasm at J. S. Clark Park Golf Course in Baton Rouge on November 20 and 21, 2023. This two-day tournament witnessed spirited competition between representatives from First Tee – Greater New Orleans and First Tee – East Baton Rouge Parish.
In a thrilling conclusion to this year’s event, First Tee – East Baton Rouge Parish emerged victorious, claiming the coveted Gumbo Cup trophy with remarkable skill and determination. The team’s exceptional performance exemplified the culmination of practice, perseverance, and dedication – all of which are taught through the First Tee Curriculum.
“The Gumbo Cup is all about celebrating Louisiana’s golfing vibe, and we saw a huge progress and victory in all the participants that they will take with them into the next tournament,” said Perry Faulkner, Executive Director of First Tee – Greater New Orleans. This win, powered by skill and dedication, shouts out the values from a science-backed golf curriculum, building not just golf champs but a crew with character and grit.”
The Annual First Tee Gumbo Cup, alternating between Baton Rouge and New Orleans locations every other year, brings together young golfers from both chapters selected through a rigorous application-based process that considers not only their golf skills but also their academic achievements and extracurricular involvement. This unique approach emphasizes the holistic development of the participants, aligning with First Tee’s commitment to instilling core values and life skills through the game of golf.
“This is such a fun event and we always look forward to getting together with our friends from First Tee – East Baton Rouge Parish for the Gumbo Cup,” said Brad Cooney, Program Director of First Tee – Greater New Orleans. “The best part is that the trophy is a real gumbo pot, which truly captures the spirit of Louisiana culture.”
First Tee – Greater New Orleans extends its heartfelt congratulations to First Tee – East Baton Rouge Parish and all Gumbo Cup participants for their exemplary display of sportsmanship and commitment to the values promoted by the organization. Reflecting on the success of this year’s Gumbo Cup, both chapters eagerly anticipate the 2024 edition, which is set to take place in New Orleans, promising another exciting chapter in this growing tradition. To learn more about Gumbo Cup and other First Tee – Greater New Orleans events, visit our Events Page here.