For most junior golfers, playing in an AJGA tournament is a big deal. But for those golfers who have never played at a national level, it is a huge deal. This week we interviewed those players who have only played in a few local or high school tournaments and are now facing a national level of competition at an AJGA Preview event.
First time AJGA players
Collin Bond of Norman, Oklahoma (2024),
- Won, AJGA Preview at Shirkey with a 1-under-par 70
- 1st AJGA tournament
- Plays Oklahoma Junior Golf Association events (OJGA)
- Aiming for a college scholarship
The biggest difference for me between a regional and national tournament is how tough the greens are and how well the course is managed.
Peyton Burbridge of Nixa, Missouri (2026)
- 1st major tournament
- Previously played in U.S. Kids Golf tournaments
- Aiming for a college scholarship
The experience of being able to play against juniors from around the country really makes it fun to play in a national tournament.
Hubert Ramirez of Miami, Florida (2025)
- 1st AJGA tournament
- Previously played in U.S. Kids Golf and Florida Junior Tour events (FJT)
- Hopes to play in an AJGA Open
The AJGA definitely runs bigger tournaments than I am used to, but it definitely gives me more motivation to play good golf and make a name for myself.
Reese Kite of Waterloo, Illinois (2025)
- 1st AJGA tournament
- Previously competed in regional rounds of Drive, Chip & Putt Championship
- Hopes to play in an AJGA Invitational
I won't change my mindset at all this weekend because I like to treat every tournament the same. Even though it is a national tournament compared to a local one, you should always keep your head cool and try to play the best you can.
Michael Dinapoli of Steamboat Springs, Colorado (2024)
- 1st AJGA tournament
- Previously played in a few Junior Golf Alliance of Colorado (JGAC) events
- Hopes to play in an AJGA All-Star
In regards to my mindset during a national tournament, I am just going to try to keep it cool, play consistent, and make greens in regulation.