Congratulations to Tee Divas and Dudes Junior golfer Koa Seymour on being named Athlete of the Week by the Los Angeles Sentinel!
Koa’s stellar 2024 accomplishments include participating in the prestigious Mack Champ Invitational, competing nationwide on the Underrated Junior Golf Tour, and earning invitations to AJGA events. A highlight of the year was winning the Western States Golf Association (WSGA) Allan Bennett Junior Tournament, which secured him a spot in the PGA of America Junior National Championship at the historic Congressional Country Club in Bethesda, Maryland. Koa was also selected to play in the APGA/Cisco Junior Series, culminating in a chance to compete in the Farmers Insurance Pro-Am at Torrey Pines Golf Course in January 2025.
Koa, ranked by the AJGA, as one of the top golf prospects in the country! However, the Method High School senior, had multiple collegiate offers, but chose to stay in California, committing to Cal State Fullerton where she’ll join the @fullertonwgolf team —Go Titans! — for college golf in 2025. Koa expresses gratitude to the Tee Divas and Dudes Golf Club for their ongoing support. Jenny Bethune, Chair of the organization’s Junior Golf Program, shared appreciation for partners like the Inland Golf Academy, Cameron Champ Foundation, Underrated Golf, and the APGA Tour, stating, “Their contributions provide invaluable opportunities for junior golfers from underserved areas in South Los Angeles.” Koa’s achievements reflect her dedication, talent, and the power of community support in nurturing young athletes.
Seymour expressed her enthusiasm for the campus to the Sentinal, noting her strong connection with the coach and players. “I wanted to stay close to home, and nothing beats California weather,” Seymour shared. “I want to play golf year-round, and when I visited Cal State Fullerton, I fell in love with it.”
Introduced to golf by her father at an early age, Seymour began by hitting balls with her siblings. Over time, her passion for the sport grew, and she committed to practicing daily. Reflecting on her development, she recalled a pivotal moment during her first Toyota Tour Cup tournament, where she placed second out of 63 competitors. “I was so nervous, but it made me realize how much I enjoy playing this game,” she said.
Her dedication intensified in high school, where her scores improved significantly. A new coach in her sophomore year helped reduce her scoring differential by 7–8 strokes. Alongside her rigorous training, Seymour is homeschooled, dedicating mornings to academics and afternoons to the golf course, practicing for four hours daily.
Support from Tee Divas and Dudes, particularly junior chair Jenny Bethune, has been instrumental. “She’s been amazing, connecting me with tournaments that showcase my talent and build valuable connections,” Seymour noted.
Seymour’s work ethic, honed through years of competitive gymnastics, fuels her golf ambitions. She aspires to join the LPGA Tour while pursuing a career she’s passionate about.