LUELLA, Ga. — Ariel Collins, a standout student-athlete from Luella High School has been recognized as one of the 2026 Positive Athlete Georgia State Winners, an honor awarded to high school athletes who demonstrate excellence in academics, athletics, leadership, and community service. The awards ceremony was held on June 1 at the Georgia State Capitol Building in downtown Atlanta, Ga., and celebrates student-athletes who continue to raise the bar both on and off the field of play.
Collins exemplifies the qualities that define the Positive Athlete program. A 4.0 GPA student, varsity golf captain, mentor, and community advocate, she has become one of Georgia’s most accomplished young golfers while maintaining a strong commitment to serving others. According to the Positive Athlete organization, Collins tripled participation in Luella High School’s golf program and serves as Head Coach for the school’s Special Olympics team. She is also an advocate for human trafficking survivors and STEM education initiatives.
Her accomplishments extend far beyond the classroom and community. Collins has emerged as one of the nation’s premier junior golfers. A native of Locust Grove, Georgia, she began playing golf at an early age and quickly established herself as a rising star in the sport. Since entering competitive golf, she has amassed more than 100 junior tournament victories nationwide and earned numerous prestigious honors.
Among her most notable achievements are two U.S. Kids Golf World Championship titles, multiple Georgia state championships, Atlanta Local Tour championships, and Player of the Year honors. In 2024, Collins set a Girls 14-15 Drive record at the Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals held at Augusta National Golf Club with a drive of 264.8 yards.
In addition to her success on the course, Collins has dedicated countless hours to community service. She volunteers with organizations including the Special Olympics of Henry County, Girls Golf LPGA-USGA programs, youth mentoring initiatives, and numerous nonprofit organizations focused on education, health awareness, and community development. She is also a First Tee Certified Junior Coach and founder of initiatives designed to introduce more young people to golf and leadership development opportunities.
Through the Ariel Collins Foundation, she continues to empower youth through golf, leadership training, and personal development programs. The foundation’s mission focuses on creating opportunities for young people from diverse backgrounds while promoting values such as achievement, inspiration, empowerment, and leadership.
For Collins, the Positive Athlete award represents more than athletic success. It recognizes a young leader who has combined academic excellence, competitive achievement, and a passion for helping others. Whether competing in national tournaments, mentoring younger athletes, coaching Special Olympics participants, or advocating for important social causes, Collins continues to demonstrate that true success is measured by the positive impact one has on others.
As she prepares for the next chapter of her academic and golfing journey, Ariel Collins remains a shining example of what it means to be a positive athlete—using talent, determination, and service to inspire the next generation.
