Since its inception in 2006, the Southern Association of Amateur Golfers (SAAG) has been a beacon of community engagement and scholarship opportunities across the Southeastern United States. As the current President of SAAG, Julius Martin, Jr. reflects on the organization’s journey, challenges, and proudest achievements.
SAAG’s mission extends far beyond the fairways and greens. Julius, who has served as President for the last seven years, emphasizes the organization’s commitment to promoting interest in golf while instilling essential life values in youth. “Our proudest moment,” Julius shares, “is providing college scholarships to minority students pursuing golf at the collegiate level.” Over the years, SAAG has supported numerous student-athletes attending esteemed institutions such as LSU, Millsaps College, North Texas University, and Troy University.
However, SAAG’s path has not been without obstacles. One of the most significant challenges the organization faces is recruiting youth to the game of golf. Julius explains, “Many young people perceive golf as an old man’s game, but it offers invaluable life lessons like honesty, integrity, and camaraderie.” To combat this misconception, SAAG actively collaborates with local middle and high school golf programs, as well as initiatives like the First Tee, to showcase the multifaceted opportunities within the sport.
SAAG’s story is one of growth and community impact. Originally founded as a means for golfers to engage in local tournaments, the organization quickly evolved to encompass social, scholastic, civic, and charitable activities. Today, SAAG boasts 12 chapter clubs across seven states, hosting yearly tournaments to support charitable causes within their communities. From the Friends of Joe Bartholomew in New Orleans to the Hole-N-One Golf Club in Tupelo, Mississippi, each chapter club exemplifies SAAG’s dedication to fostering both sporting excellence and philanthropy.
Central to SAAG’s success are its dedicated officers, including Vice President Ann Sanders, Treasurer Willie Adams, Secretary Ralph Stallworth, and Chaplain Arthur Kennedy. Together, they work tirelessly to uphold the organization’s values and ensure its continued growth and impact.
Reflecting on the future, Julius envisions SAAG expanding its reach even further. “We aim to deepen our engagement with local communities and continue providing educational opportunities for aspiring student-athletes,” he says. With a network of passionate members and a commitment to excellence, SAAG is poised to make an enduring mark on the world of amateur golf.
In conclusion, the Southern Association of Amateur Golfers stands as a testament to the power of community, scholarship, and sportsmanship. Through its unwavering dedication to youth development and charitable initiatives, SAAG is not only shaping the future of golf but also nurturing the leaders of tomorrow. As Julius Martin, Jr. and the SAAG team continue to champion their mission, the organization’s impact will undoubtedly resonate far beyond the greens of Jackson, Mississippi.
12 chapter clubs in 7 states. Each chapter club hosts their own yearly tournament to support charities in their respective communities. SAAG hosts a season ending tournament for chapter members to fellowship and raise funds for scholarships.
SAAG Past President/Original Organizer: Joseph Hall, New Orleans, LA
Membership Cost: $200.00 per club yearly
SAAG Officers:
Julius Martin, Jr., President
Ann Sanders, Vice President
Willie Adams, Treasurer
Ralph Stallworth, Secretary
Arthur Kennedy, Chaplain
SAAG Chapter Clubs:
- The Friends of Joe Bartholomew, New Orleans, LA
- Nine Iron Golf Club, Jackson, MS
- Toussaint Golf Club, Lafayette, LA
- Bi-City Golf Club, Columbus, GA
- Twin City Golf Assn. Monroe, LA
- Capital City Golf Club, Baton Rouge, LA
- Par Four Golf Club, Pensacola, FL
- Gulf City Golfers, Mobile, AL
- Hole-N-One Golf Club, Tupelo, MS
- Golden Triangle Golf Assn., Columbus, MS
- Tuscaloosa Golf Club, Tuscaloosa, AL
- Par Busters Golf Club, Biloxi, MS
For more information visit https://www.saag-inc.com
