For LeRoy Bates, golf is more than just a game—it’s a lifelong passion, a way to connect with others, and a platform for giving back to the community. Born in Alabama but a longtime resident of Los Angeles, Bates was introduced to golf at the age of nine by his grandfather, John Lovett. “My grandpa was in his 50s, a retired colonel from the Army, and he played golf at least once a week,” Bates recalls. “Every summer, I’d go down south to Alabama to spend time with him, and my highlight was just being with my grandfather on the golf course. My job was picking up golf balls after he hit!”
Now 49 years old, Bates boasts an impressive golf handicap of 3.3. His deep love for the sport led him to co-found Golf Junkyz, a dynamic and inclusive golf club that blends competition, community, and charity. The idea for Golf Junkyz was born in 2020 during a casual round of golf on Father’s Day weekend. “Me and Keion Witherspoon were at the golf course, watching our buddy Tim O’Neil qualify for the Senior Champions Tour,” Bates explains. “We came up with the name because we live for golf—we are literally golf junkyz, it’s in our blood.”
Since its inception, Golf Junkyz has grown into a thriving community. The club provides an avenue for people of all skill levels to get involved in the game, whether as players, sponsors, or volunteers. Through their website, www.golfjunkyzfoundation.com, individuals can sign up to become members, donate to the cause, or volunteer at youth clinics. “Golf Junkyz is a great way to have fun, get social, and build confidence in the game of golf,” Bates shares. “But more importantly, it’s an avenue to give back to our youth and engage in meaningful community involvement.”
One of Golf Junkyz’s major initiatives includes running school programs for students from kindergarten through 12th grade. These programs focus on golf education, scholarship opportunities, and community service outreach. The organization also offers volunteer opportunities that provide students with community service credits. “We are currently running school programs specializing in scholarship awards and community outreach,” says Bates. “We are always open to more opportunities to serve.”
Golf Junkyz has also gained traction on social media, with active profiles on Instagram (linktr.ee/Golfjunkyz) and Facebook (Golf Junkyz), where they connect with fellow enthusiasts and supporters. The club’s mission aligns with a growing movement to make golf more accessible and inclusive, ensuring that young players, especially those from underserved communities, have the resources and encouragement to pursue the sport.
Beyond social engagement, Golf Junkyz is about creating a legacy. “This club isn’t just about playing the game,” Bates emphasizes. “It’s about building confidence, supporting one another, and passing down the love of golf to future generations.” His passion is reminiscent of Frederick Douglass’s famous quote: “It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men.” Through Golf Junkyz, Bates is not just teaching golf—he’s shaping futures.
For those looking to join this vibrant community, becoming a member of Golf Junkyz is simple. Whether you’re an aspiring golfer, a business looking to sponsor, or someone eager to volunteer, there’s a place for everyone. With a strong commitment to youth development, philanthropy, and the joy of the game, Golf Junkyz is more than just a club—it’s a movement.
As Bates looks ahead, his vision for Golf Junkyz remains clear: “We want to continue growing, providing opportunities for young golfers, and making a real impact in our communities. Golf has given me so much, and now, through Golf Junkyz, I want to give back.”
