The energy inside Booker T. Washington Senior High School’s Library and Innovation Center was all about unity, mentorship and new beginnings as South Florida leaders came together to celebrate the revival of the school’s golf program.
Four Miami natives — Cliff Addison, Ed Ponder, Anthony Robinson and former NFL player Travis Daniels — partnered with the school for the relaunch, supported by the Future Leaders of Hospitality and Tourism (FLHAT), the Overtown Children & Youth Coalition (OCYC) and Urban Golf Weekend (UGW). As part of the event, UGW presented students with brand-new golf clubs and uniforms, a donation organizers say symbolizes fresh opportunity for youth in Overtown.
“This was such a special opportunity for our students to be introduced to the game of golf — a sport that reflects discipline, focus and perseverance,” said Booker T. Washington SH School Principal Anthony E. Simons in a press statement. “They witnessed entrepreneurship, sponsorship and philanthropy come together in one place, and the guest speakers poured into them with powerful lessons about overcoming challenges and daring to dream big.”
The event brought out key school staff, community advocates, and supporters, including:
- Anthony E. Simons III, Principal, Booker T. Washington Senior High
- Dr. Lisa Starks, Director of Athletics
- Cliff Addison, Co-founder, Urban Golf Weekend
- Woody Remy, Co-founder, Urban Golf Weekend; Founder, Brainstorm
- Travis Daniels, Former Miami Dolphins Player & Founder, Jus Birdie Golf Apparel
- Ed Ponder, Founder, FLHAT
- Anthony Robinson, Executive Director, OCYC
“Urban Golf Weekend was created to do more than celebrate the game — it’s about opening doors,” said UGW co-founder Cliff Addison in a press release. “Golf has always been a bridge, and through this initiative, we’re ensuring that young people of color have access to opportunities that go far beyond the course.”
Over the past two years, UGW has donated more than $40,000 to youth and collegiate programs, including Fore Life and Florida A&M University. The Booker T. partnership builds on that momentum by creating a pathway for students to learn a sport that has historically been out of reach for many communities of color.
OCYC’s Anthony Robinson said collaborations like this strengthen youth development efforts across Overtown.
“Collaborations like this demonstrate the power of community partnerships,” Robinson said. “By introducing youth to golf — a sport that teaches patience, focus and integrity — we’re helping them develop the confidence and life skills they need to succeed both on and off the course.”
With new gear, new guidance and a renewed commitment to accessibility, Booker T. Washington Senior High’s golf program is positioned to give students meaningful access to a sport — and a community — where they can grow, compete and succeed.
This is a Hy-Lo News Staff Report.
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