Excel Youth Academy is continuing its mission of developing the next generation of golfers and leaders with an upcoming Open House being held on Wednesday, March 25 at Browns Mill Golf Course, 480 Cleveland Avenue SE in Atlanta, GA. The event will offer a hands-on look at its programming, culture, and future plans from 4:30pm-6:30pm. RSVP is required.

Produced as an interactive event, the organizers will feature a live golf putting demonstration, giveaways, and an exclusive preview of what’s ahead for the 2026 season. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about membership options, year-round programming, and scholarship opportunities designed to make the game more accessible to young players from diverse backgrounds.

Founded as a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, Excel Youth Academy focuses on youth development through the game of golf combined with STEAM-based learning. The program serves boys and girls ages 7 to 17, creating a safe and engaging environment where participants can build confidence, discipline, and life skills. Its curriculum is rooted in core values—etiquette, confidence, perseverance, and integrity—while emphasizing that golf can be a pathway to broader personal and academic success. 

Rather than operating from a single fixed facility, Excel Youth Academy functions as a mobile academy, delivering programming and events across communities in Georgia and California. This flexible approach allows the organization to reach a wider audience and expand access to golf instruction and mentorship.  Those interested in attending the Open House or learning more about the program can RSVP and connect directly through the academy’s website HERE. Inquiries about enrollment, partnerships, and upcoming events are welcomed. 

With its commitment to exposure, education, and empowerment, Excel Youth Academy continues to create meaningful opportunities for youth—using golf as a foundation for lifelong growth both on and off the course.

Uncertainty and rumors continue to surround a possible return to the Masters for Tiger Woods, as the 15-time major champion works his way back from another series of serious injuries. Woods has not competed in an official event since 2024 and has spent much of the past year recovering from multiple physical setbacks, including a ruptured Achilles tendon and his latest back procedure—reportedly his seventh. The surgery, which involved a disk replacement, has proven to be a difficult recovery, especially as he approaches age 50. 

Despite the challenges, it seems as if Woods has not ruled out playing in the upcoming The Masters Tournament at Augusta National. When asked directly if competing was still possible, he gave a simple but telling response: it is “not off the table,” reports the timesofindia.com. That brief answer has fueled speculation among fans and analysts who continue to hope for another comeback on one of golf’s biggest stages. 

Still, Woods has been candid about the reality of his recovery. He has described having both “good days” and “bad days,” noting that his body no longer heals or responds the way it once did earlier in his career. The lingering effects of repeated surgeries have made it difficult for him to commit to a firm timeline for returning to competitive play. 

Even so, there are encouraging signs. Woods has been seen practicing and staying involved in golf through his TGL team, Jupiter Links, although he has not yet been physically ready to compete alongside them. 

As the Masters approaches, the question remains unanswered. While a return is far from certain, Woods’ determination and history of remarkable comebacks ensure that the golf world will continue watching closely.

Tiger Woods has kept fans guessing about a potential return to the Masters Tournament, as he continues to recover from a series of significant injuries and surgeries.

Woods, now 50, has not committed to playing in this year’s Masters, acknowledging that his health remains unpredictable. He explained that his recovery has been inconsistent, with some days allowing him to move freely and others making even basic movement difficult. Following a recent lumbar disc replacement surgery, he admitted that the process has been challenging, especially at this stage of his career. 

The five-time Masters champion has not competed in an official event since the 2024 Open Championship. Since then, he has dealt with a ruptured Achilles tendon and ongoing back issues that required yet another procedure—his latest in a long history of surgeries.  These physical setbacks have significantly limited his ability to return to consistent tournament play.

Despite these challenges, Woods has not completely ruled out a return to Augusta. Earlier this year, he indicated that playing in the Masters was still a possibility, though far from certain. His focus remains on trying to get his body back to a level where he can compete at the highest standard, even if progress has been slow. 

In the meantime, Woods has remained involved in the game in other ways. He has been supporting his team in the TGL indoor golf league and continues to play a visible role in the sport, even while sidelined from competition. However, he has made it clear that he does not want to rush back prematurely and risk further setbacks.

As the Masters approaches, uncertainty continues to surround whether one of golf’s most iconic figures will make another appearance at Augusta National Golf Club. While fans remain hopeful for yet another comeback moment, Woods’ participation ultimately depends on how his body responds in the coming weeks.

For now, the door remains open—but only slightly—as Woods balances determination with the physical realities of recovery.

One month from now, golf fans everywhere will be making their annual pilgrimage to Augusta, where azaleas bloom, whispers replace cheering, and the legendary Masters Tournament takes center stage. It’s that magical time of year when even non-golfers suddenly develop strong opinions about green jackets and pimento cheese.

Let’s start with the good news. Attending the Masters remains one of the best bargains in all of sports. Yes, you read that correctly. While most major events will have you refinancing your home for a decent seat, Masters tickets are still around $160 per day from Thursday through Sunday. And the legendary concessions? Practically a time warp. That famous pimento cheese or egg salad sandwich will still run you about $1.50. At this point, it may be the last place on Earth where inflation politely waits outside the gates.

Now, let’s talk about the part of the trip that might require a small financial pep talk: lodging.

Augusta, a charming Southern city with deep roots in golf history, transforms completely during Masters week. Home to Augusta National Golf Club, the city is normally calm and easygoing. But once tournament week arrives, it’s as if the entire golf universe descends at once. Players, fans, media, corporate sponsors, and that one friend who “just happened to get tickets” all show up—and they all need a place to sleep. That’s when hotel prices decide to channel their inner long-drive champion and absolutely launch into the stratosphere.

Take a nearby Hampton Inn, on Augusta-Washington Road, for example. On a regular night, you might pay a very reasonable $179. Nothing fancy, just a clean room, a decent bed, and maybe a waffle at breakfast. But during Masters week? That same room suddenly believes it’s part of Amen Corner and jumps to a jaw-dropping $1,543 per night. That’s not a typo—that’s a nine-fold increase. For that price, you half expect a caddie to greet you at check-in and read you the break on your walk to the elevator.

And just to keep things interesting, cancellation policies during tournament week tend to be about as forgiving as a downhill putt at Augusta National. Change your plans? That’ll cost you.

Of course, none of this seems to deter the faithful. Fans keep coming, rooms keep selling out, and Augusta keeps shining as the most unique experience in golf. Because at the end of the day, where else can you watch the world’s best players compete on one of the most iconic courses ever created—and still grab a sandwich for less than your morning coffee?

So yes, the Masters is a bargain… as long as you don’t plan on sleeping indoors. Yet, there are options other than staying in hotels. For instance, Green Space Rentals, a full-service home rental company based in Augusta, specializes in accommodations during the world-renowned Masters Tournament. The company partners with homeowners throughout the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA) to provide a wide variety of rental options suited for individuals, families, and larger groups.

Teddy Tripp, long-time Augusta resident and the President of Green Space Rentals says, “More than just a housing provider, we deliver a comprehensive hospitality experience to our customers. In addition to securing accommodations, we offer services such as transportation, housekeeping, and even assistance with access to Masters tournament tickets. Our goal is to create a seamless and memorable experience for visitors attending one of golf’s most iconic events.”

Admittedly, Tripp notes that pricing for rentals varies widely depending on factors such as property size, location, amenities, and proximity to Augusta National Golf Club. During Masters Week, rental homes can range from a few thousand dollars to high-end luxury properties at significantly higher price points. The company works closely with clients to match them with options that align with their budget and expectations.

“Due to the high demand surrounding Masters Week, early booking is strongly recommended,” says Tripp, who once worked as Director for Augusta Housing through the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce. “Ideally, guests should secure their accommodations several months to a year in advance to ensure the best selection. Many returning visitors even book immediately after the tournament ends to guarantee preferred properties for the following year.”

For more information to broader your options contact Green Space Rentals by phone at 706.945.3886, via email at [email protected], or online at www.gsrhomes.net, offering a convenient and personalized approach to planning the ultimate Masters Week stay.

LPGA Tour Player and KPMG Brand Ambassador Mariah Stackhouse Returns
as UNDERRATED Golf Ambassador for the 2026 U.S. Tour

San Francisco, CA – [March 17, 2026] – Today, four-time NBA Champion and two-time MVP Stephen Curry announced the return of the UNDERRATED Golf Tour presented by KPMG for its fifth U.S. season, marking a milestone year for a platform that continues to reshape access and opportunity within the game. Now entering its fifth season, UNDERRATED Golf continues to evolve as a purpose-driven business endeavor committed to balancing participation in the sport and expanding competitive pathways for student-athletes from every community. With the continued support of KPMG LLP, the U.S. audit, tax and advisory firm, season five will once again blend elite competition with leadership development, mentorship and exposure to career pathways that extend well beyond the course.

“From day one, UNDERRATED Golf has never just been about playing the game,” said Stephen Curry. “It’s about creating access and opening doors for young athletes who might not have seen themselves in this space before. Golf gave me so many opportunities and I’ve always believed the game should be more inclusive. KPMG believed in that vision from the beginning and helped us build something real around it. Five seasons in, it’s amazing to see how this platform continues to grow and impact the next generation.”

A National Tour Designed for Competition and Development

Each stop on the U.S. Tour is intentionally structured as both a championship environment and a development platform. At every regional event, an estimated 120 student-athletes will compete in tournament-style play while also participating in curated programming focused on long-term success. Beyond the leaderboard, participants will engage directly with college golf coaches, golf executives and industry leaders, reinforcing the tour’s commitment to developing the whole individual. The 2026 U.S. Tour will include the following stops:

• June 30–July 2 | The Mark Bostick Golf Course at the University of Florida; Gainesville, FL
• July 13–15 | Troon North Golf Club; Scottsdale, AZ
• July 21–23 | Seaview Country Club; Galloway, NJ
• August 2–4 | Hillcrest Country Club; Los Angeles, CA
• September 15–17 | Curry Cup – Bethpage Black Golf Course; Farmingdale, NY

The season will culminate at the Curry Cup, where the top boys and girls from across the tour will compete for the ultimate title at Bethpage Black Golf Course. Additionally, the top boy and girl winners from the UNDERRATED Golf European stop will earn the opportunity to travel to the United States to compete in the prestigious finale, reinforcing the tour’s growing international footprint.

“We are honored to host the Curry Cup at Bethpage Black and to welcome these young athletes who have worked hard all season to earn their place at one of New York’s great public courses,” said NY State Parks Acting Commissioner Kathy Moser. “State Parks are places where everyone is welcome, and where access to world-class venues helps open doors and create opportunity. I hope that when these athletes step onto this stage, they feel they belong here and leave believing even more in what’s possible for their future.”

KPMG Leadership Development Day at the Core of the Partnership

A defining element of the UNDERRATED Golf experience is KPMG Leadership Development Day, which will once again take place during the season-ending Curry Cup, reflecting a shared commitment to preparing student-athletes to lead in any field.

“This sponsorship is about more than the game—it’s about investing in the next generation of leaders,” said Tim Walsh, KPMG U.S. Chair and CEO. “We’re proud to continue our work with Stephen Curry, his team, and Mariah Stackhouse to create meaningful leadership development opportunities that help young golfers build skills, confidence, and perspective they’ll carry into their careers, their communities, and whatever future they choose to pursue.”

The leadership experience will again be strengthened by the return of LPGA Tour player and KPMG brand ambassador Mariah Stackhouse, who will serve as the UNDERRATED Golf brand ambassador for the U.S. Tour.

Over the last three years, it’s been an honor to work alongside UNDERRATED and KPMG in making a profound impact on and off the golf course for these deserving student-athletes,” said Mariah Stackhouse. “Learning about their stories and watching them put in the effort to get better inspires me to improve, and I’m looking forward to watching them reach even higher heights in the upcoming UNDERRATED Golf season.”

As it enters its fifth season, UNDERRATED Golf continues to challenge longstanding barriers within the sport by expanding competitive access, strengthening leadership development and building meaningful pathways beyond the fairway.

For more information, please visit www.underrated.golf, and connect on social media via Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.  

ABOUT UNDERRATED

UNDERRATED Golf, established by Stephen Curry in 2022, is a purpose-driven platform committed to expanding equity, access and opportunity in the game of golf for student-athletes from underrepresented communities and female players. Inspired by Curry’s own journey as an overlooked athlete, the initiative celebrates the underdog while working to level the playing field in a sport where opportunity has historically been limited. Through a competitive junior golf tour, mentorship programming and career development initiatives, UNDERRATED Golf provides talented young golfers with a national stage to gain exposure, build meaningful connections and unlock pathways to success on and off the course. For more information, please visit www.underrated.golf, and connect on social media via Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.

College Career & Beyond | Midnight Golf Program, located in Detroit, Michigan, continues to make a lasting impact on student success as it celebrates a major milestone. The organization will host its 25th Anniversary Gala on Thursday, April 30 at The Department at Hudson’s Detroit, marking a quarter century of transforming the lives of Detroit-area youth.

The evening will be emceed by David Alan Grier, a Tony and Emmy Award-winning performer with deep Detroit roots. His presence adds both star power and local pride to an event centered on education, opportunity, and community advancement.

Guests can expect an engaging and interactive experience that blends golf, fashion, and philanthropy. Highlights of the evening include a strolling golf apparel fashion show, a hole-in-one challenge, celebrity gameplay, and a celebration of the program’s long-standing commitment to guiding students from high school to college graduation and beyond.

The organization has set an ambitious goal for the gala: to raise $1.2 million and secure 300 sponsors. Each contribution directly will go to fund all program costs for 300 Students Class of 2027, providing essential resources that help them succeed academically and personally. This milestone event is more than a gala; it is a powerful gathering of 450 of Detroit’s most influential business and philanthropic leaders, united with one purpose.

Founder and CEO Renèe Fluker emphasized the importance of continued support, noting that the program’s success is rooted in its comprehensive approach. Students are not only encouraged to pursue higher education but are also supported every step of the way with mentorship, guidance, and resources that extend far beyond financial aid.

One of the program’s most impactful initiatives is the Road Trip For Success College Tour. On March 29, 260 Detroit-area high school seniors will embark on a weeklong journey through North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia, visiting college campuses such as Norfolk State University. For many participants, this will be their first time traveling outside of Michigan. The experience is designed to expand their perspectives and inspire confidence in their ability to succeed in higher education.

The need for programs like College Career & Beyond | Midnight Golf Program is underscored by recent data. While Michigan’s high school graduation rate reached 84 percent in 2025, only 53 percent of graduates enrolled in college within six months. This gap highlights the importance of wraparound support systems that help students not only gain admission to college but also persist through graduation.

Since its founding in 2001, the program has served more than 3,000 students and achieved a 98 percent college acceptance rate, nearly double the state average. These results reflect a proven model that combines mentorship, exposure, and sustained support.

As the organization looks ahead to its next 25 years, the April 30 gala serves as both a celebration and a call to action. With continued community support, College Career & Beyond | Midnight Golf Program aims to expand its reach and ensure that more Detroit students have the opportunity to succeed in college and in life.

For more information contact visit https://www.25yearsofunstoppable.com/lite-ui/?controller=home

A tragic incident in Florida that happened on Friday, March 13, has drawn widespread attention after a young man, identified as Christian Barrios, was accused of a fatal shooting in inside a Walgreens store. According to authorities, the shooting took place at a Walgreens location, where Barrios allegedly opened fire, killing another individual. The shooting delayed the Friday gate opening of the nearby Players Championship tournament at TPC Sawgrass as Law enforcement responded swiftly, securing the scene and taking the suspect into custody without further incident. Investigators are still working to determine a clear motive, though early indications suggest the situation may have involved a prior interaction between the suspect and the victim.

The incident came at a time when the area was experiencing an influx of visitors due to The Players Championship. The prestigious tournament draws thousands of fans, players, and media to the region each year, creating a stark contrast between the celebratory atmosphere of one of golf’s biggest events and the sobering reality of this tragic incident.

Police continue to gather evidence, review surveillance footage, and interview witnesses as they piece together what led to the deadly encounter. The case has left the local community shaken, with many expressing concern over safety in everyday public spaces.

Authorities have emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing and are asking anyone with additional information to come forward. As the legal process unfolds, the focus remains on seeking justice for the victim while the community grapples with the impact of the incident.